Texas Advocacy Day 2025: Advocates Take Action for Heart Health at the Capitol!

On February 20, 2025, the American Heart Association turned the Texas Capitol into a powerhouse of advocacy, uniting 70 passionate advocates for Texas Advocacy Day 2025! This incredible day was all about taking bold action to support Cardiac Emergency Response Plans (CERPs), ensuring school campuses have access to lifesaving training and resources when seconds matter most.

With a jam-packed schedule, advocates took part in meetings with lawmakers and key staff, amplifying the urgent need for CERPs in Texas schools. Notable meetings included discussions with Representative Todd Hunter, Chair of the Calendars Committee and the Chief of Staff for the Texas House Speaker. The response? Incredible enthusiasm and strong support, with many legislators committing to further conversations and two potential co-authors stepping forward to champion this cause.

But the day wasn’t just about meetings—it was about making an impact and igniting change! Throughout the event, attendees were inspired by powerful moments, including:
❤️ A motivating speech from Representative Suleman Lalani, emphasizing the need for Cardiac Emergency Response Plans (CERPs) in schools and equipping advocates with practical strategies to influence policy.

💪 A hands-on CPR demonstration, where AHA Texas Advocacy Committee member Yama Thompson and North Texas Community Impact Director Hilda Colunga showcased how quick action, and training can mean the difference between life and death.

🎤 Rallying speeches from advocate Andre Scott and survivor-turned-advocate Chloe Burke, who captivated the crowd with their personal stories and calls to action, reminding everyone why this fight is so critical.

Beyond the meetings and speeches, the energy was electric as advocates connected, learned, and took bold steps to drive meaningful change. Texas Advocacy Day 2025 wasn’t just a day at the Capitol—it was a powerful demonstration of what happens when people use their voices to protect and improve the health of their communities.

The impact of this day will continue far beyond February 20. With momentum on our side and new legislative champions stepping up, we are one step closer to creating a Texas where every school is equipped to respond to cardiac emergencies. Together, we are building a future where every heartbeat counts! ❤️💪🎤