Advocacy Updates

By Annalisa Smithson, LPC, NCC I didn’t set out to run for office. I just kept saying “yes” to the next right thing. Six years ago, I decided to put my listening skills to good use by knocking on doors and advocating for candidates who shared my values.

On Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025, the Supreme Court heard the oral argument for Chiles v. Salazar. The case grapples with whether Colorado’s law banning conversion therapy violates the Free Speech Clause of the First Amendment.

Congress struck down a proposal to continue to fund the government at current levels through the end of November. Because Congress was unable to pass a continuing resolution (CR) by September 30th, the Federal government has officially shut down.

On March 9, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to review  Chiles v. Salazar to rule on the constitutionality of Colorado’s ban on conversion therapy for minors during the 2025-2026 term.

July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. This month is not only an opportunity to spread mental health awareness, but also a reminder that too often communities of color face structural barriers to accessing mental health care.