IEC Lobby Days
Demonstrate our movement's power!
IEC annually leads Illinois’ environmental movement to the State Capitol to advocate for our state’s climate and conservation future. We connect Illinoisans representing various communities, professions, and interests with their elected officials—and each other! For decades, our Lobby Days have inspired legislative action among our decision-makers, our affiliates, and passionate Illinoisans just like you!
Your Advocacy Impact
Decision-makers often tell us that hearing directly from their constituents at the Capitol influences their priorities.
From youth marches to the Governor’s Office to sharing personal impact stories directly with your legislators, Lobby Days are your chance to make an impact. Our environmental champions and bill sponsors from the House and Senate often seek opportunities to participate in our Lobby Day rallies because they are energized by seeing the support we’ve built for environmental progress.
In 2025, IEC hosted four Lobby Days. We brought together voices to fight for soil health, reinforce conservation resources, make progress on climate action, and free Illinois from plastic and waste pollution. Over 500 Illinoisans made the trip to Springfield to participate.
Jen Walling, IEC Executive Director, leads 2025 Climate Action Lobby Day
2026 Lobby Days
Our Lobby Day events are free and open to all. Check back early 2026 for updates!
Never Lobbied Before?
Designed for new and returning advocates alike, we’ll guide participants through every step of the process. You’ll be paired up with seasoned environmental advocates who will support you and your neighbors through conversations with legislators. We also train participants before each Lobby Day so you are prepared, energized, and excited to make a difference!
We asked past attendees how they have or will incorporate this experience into their daily lives. Here’s what they said:
- More engagement in district, local, and state politics
- Paying more attention to bills, laws, etc.
- Convincing others to join the climate movement
- Encouraging others to attend a Lobby Day
Taking new knowledge back to their communities
Right: Constituent meeting with Illinois State Rep. Kelly Cassidy.
Advocacy Training Materials
- Watch Civics for Environmentalists 2025.
- View the IEC 2025 Legislative Agenda, the official legislative agenda for Illinois’ environmental movement!
- Contact your legislator via email through IEC action alerts before you visit them in Springfield!
- Explore our 2025 Legislative Report, detailing environmental policy wins and setbacks from the legislative session.
