Women in Print Alliance members hit Capitol Hill in May as part of an industry-wide delegation visit to Washington, D.C. The women represented varied roles and segments within print manufacturing, including direct mail, commercial print, book publishing, and specialty promo/apparel.

Organized by PRINTING United Alliance, the 2025 Legislative Fly-In event was a unique opportunity for company CEOs and management teams to gather in the nation’s capital to advocate for print.

Specifically, attendees had the opportunity to:

  • Gain knowledge of key policy debates impacting print and the broader manufacturing/business community
  • Participate in an interactive session to learn the best (and worst) strategies for delivering advocacy messages to lawmakers
  • Develop company narratives showcasing unique segments within the print industry and highlighting which policy issues most impact growth and success
  • Network with industry peers during social hours and group meals at trendy DC locations

The cherry on top? Walking the halls of Capitol Hill armed with data to promote the economic, societal and environmental value of print and delivering key advocacy “asks” while meeting face-to-face with U.S. Senators, Representatives, and staff.

By participating in this event, women in print contributed to an effort aimed at advancing the printing industry’s presence and influence on Capitol Hill.

According to Stephanie Buka, Government Affairs Manager at PRINTING United Alliance, “Over two days, teams fanned out across the House and Senate office buildings, holding nearly 60 meetings—many with members themselves.”

She noted quantifiable results from these meetings, stating, “Several lawmakers expressed interest in joining the bipartisan Congressional Printing Caucus, a signal of renewed attention to an industry that drives $90.3 billion in annual U.S. economic output.”

“The Printing Caucus, established in the 118th Congress, has grown from a handful of members to 17 members. In 2025, the Alliance anticipates continued growth of the caucus and is aiming to expand its membership to 30 lawmakers.”

Excitedly, this is just the beginning, according to Buka. “The Fly-In also yielded concrete next steps: multiple offices committed to schedule site visits back home so lawmakers can see modern print operations up close.”

If advocacy is your jam (or you just want to dip your toe into the government affairs pool), Women in Print Alliance is here to facilitate your career growth in this area.

Be sure to follow us on LinkedIn for workforce and education legislative action alerts, invitations to virtual advocacy workshops, and how-to guides on grassroots activities like hosting a lawmaker for a facility tour of your company.

And remember:

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” —Margaret Mead