Session Description: Congress is an ecosystem unto itself with different communities on each side of the Hill (Senate and House of Representatives), different populations within those communities, odd mutualistic relationships, and competition (for votes) to avoid extinction (losing reelection). This short course will provide an overview of how Congress works and how to frame a message for different members of Congress. Workshop participants will use their own research and the tips learned during the morning to compose a 1-minute pitch for a member of Congress. As we craft talking points and pitches together, we will also walk through resources for uncovering what your member of Congress cares about, how to connect with her/him/them, start a conversation to share a message as a constituent, and build a relationship. Afterward, you will be invited to submit your 1-minute pitch to our ESA Policy Pitch Contest on YouTube for a chance to win a prize!