More than 250 people from across Washington state gathered in Olympia for the annual MLK Lobby Day, rejecting silence in the face of federal cuts to safety net programs. The event, held in honor of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., aimed to amplify the voices of community advocates, many attending for the first time. Participants, led by the Statewide Poverty Action Network, prepared through talks and demonstrations before meeting with lawmakers. They wore red scarves and carried purple tote bags that read “POVERTY IS A POLICY ISSUE.” Advocates urged legislators to invest in progressive revenue to fund essential programs, enhance social services, and reduce barriers to support. The day highlighted the importance of sharing personal experiences to influence lawmakers. One advocate noted that legislators are community members too, and engaging them in human conversations can be powerful. The advocacy efforts continue beyond MLK Lobby Day, with a call to action for ongoing support in the 2026 legislative session.