SCNM Students Attend DC FLI

 

By Julie Pefferman

 

“The annual DC FLI, or Washington DC Federal Legislative Initiative, is something every ND candidate and ND should attend.” said Dr. Shidfar Rouhani, SCNM Alum. On May 14th and 15th, students, doctors and supporters of Naturopathic Medicine headed to Washington, DC, to meet with more than 60 members of Congress to share information and speak about Naturopathic Medicine.

Michelle Dillon, Matt Cavaiola, Jonci Jensen, Kiera Smialek, Julie Pefferman		N.D.’s from around the U.S. attend the DC FLI.

Although for many the DC FLI comes and goes like a blip on life’s radar screen, the effect of these two days floods the bright future of Naturopathic Medicine. SCNM students out-numbered the other schools at the DC FLI and were passionate about why they attend this event each year. Jessica Hart, a quarter four student, stated, “I want to share about Naturopathic Medicine with legislators now while I am a student so when I am a doctor I can enjoy my state being licensed.” The students had the opportunity to speak with members of Congress not only about their four rigorous years of medical training but also about their personal experiences with Naturopathic Medicine.

The DC FLI consists of two days organized by the AANP (American Association of Naturopathic Physicians). The first day prepares students and doctors for their involvement with legislators. During an educational game of mock Congress, students and doctors are randomly assigned legislative roles to play as speaker of the house, various senators, and other key figures. The second day, groups of students, Naturopathic Physicians, and naturopathic supporters met with members of Congress to discuss the federal agenda of Naturopathic Medicine. Many legislators and staff were invited to a reception that evening where one could travel through a world of delightful foods at themed tables. Delicious smoked salmon was paired with information on omega fatty acids, a plentiful bowl of large blueberries was near information on antioxidants and, the favorite of many, was the table of dark organic chocolate where members of Congress could speak with Naturopathic Physicians.

It might be said if there is ever a day to show your pride in Naturopathic Medicine it happens once a year at the DC FLI. It is a day when you can share with the country’s legislators what Naturopathic Medicine means to the health of this nation. Visit www.naturopathic.org for more pictures from this year’s DC FLI and for more information on how to attend in 2007.