- What is “Day on the Hill”?
Day on the Hill is a day when citizens from across Tennessee come together at the State Capitol and Offices to meet with lawmakers, share our values, and speak up for justice, compassion, and community. It’s not a protest or a rally; it’s a respectful, organized day of conversation with elected officials. We meet face-to-face with legislators in their offices to discuss real issues that affect real Tennesseans.
- Do I need to be an expert or have political experience?
Absolutely not. You don’t need any prior experience in advocacy or politics to participate. Many of us will be doing this for the first time! You’ll receive training, talking points, and support from experienced leaders who’ve done this before. Think of it as having a guide on your first hike; you bring your heart and your story; we’ll help with the map.
- Who can come?
Anyone can come, with the caveat that if you aren’t a Tennessee resident, the discussions are limited to issues in Tennessee. Nothing federal our outside the boundaries of Tennessee will be addressed.
- Is this a protest or march?
No. This is a peaceful, planned day of meetings, scheduled in advance with lawmakers.
We’re there to build relationships, not to shout or confront. Our goal is to represent our faith and our communities with grace, respect, and truth. We show up as neighbors, not as partisans or protesters.
- What happens during the day?
You’ll:
- Meet at the Cordell Hull with other participants for a short orientation and prayer.
- Break into small teams with a team leader and visit offices of legislators for short, scheduled meetings, typically 10–15 minutes each.
- Share your story and your faith values around issues that matter, like education, public safety, and care for our neighbors, tailored around bills that are moving through committees.
- Who leads this event?
Day on the Hill is hosted by the Tennessee-Western Kentucky Board of Church and Society and coordinated by Rev. Timothy Holton, Rev. Stacey Harwell-Dye, and Rev. Ingrid McIntyre. Your meetings will be guided by experienced advocates, regular folks who have learned how to communicate effectively with lawmakers.
- Why should I come?
Because our Democratic Republic works best when everyone has a voice, not just those in power or those who live near Nashville. Our lawmakers need to hear from people like you, people who know what life is like in small towns, on farms, in rural churches, and in everyday Tennessee communities. Your presence shows that faith and love are alive in every corner of this state.
- What do I say to a legislator?
You don’t have to memorize facts or statistics. Just speak from your faith and your experience.
You might say things like:
- “In my church, we care deeply about…”
- “In our community, we’ve seen how this issue affects families.”
- “My faith calls me to love my neighbor, and that’s why I’m here.”
We’ll give you simple talking points before you go in, and you can always let your team leader speak first.
- What should I wear?
We will have matching event shirts available for you if you register by December 31, 2025. If you didn’t register in time or choose not to wear the event shirt, business casual is recommended. Clergy are encouraged to wear collars. You’ll do a fair bit of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
- How do I register?
To register, click the link below before December 31, 2025. The information will be used by the organizers to set up meetings with lawmakers by constituency and justice area, which takes a fair amount of time, which is why we are asking you to register early. We will be interfacing with the Tennessee State Government, making it necessary to have your legal, full name as it appears on your government issued identification. None of your information will be shared beyond the organizers.
- How much does it cost?
The event is free, but there will be a fee for parking in downtown Nashville. Lunch will be provided, but you may want to have cash on you for drinks or snacks in the cafeteria. If you want to attend, we don’t want this to create a hardship for you. Reach out to Rev. Timothy Holton, scholarships for parking are available.
- What if I feel nervous or out of place?
That’s normal! Most people do at first. Just remember, lawmakers are public servants. They work for you. You’re not there to argue; you’re there to build relationships and bear witness to the values of love, justice, and mercy that shape your faith. If your hands shake or your voice trembles, that’s okay, it means you care.
- What difference will this make?
When people of faith show up, calmly, respectfully, and consistently, it changes the atmosphere.
Lawmakers remember those conversations. They start to see that Christian faith is not about fear or power, but about compassion, fairness, and love. Your presence matters. It’s part of shaping a more just and loving Tennessee.
- Can I invite others?
Yes! Bring friends from church, family members, neighbors, youth, or anyone who shares a concern for the common good. No one needs experience, just a willingness to listen, learn, and show up. Be sure and register before January 20, 2026.
- Final Word
Day on the Hill is a day of faithful citizenship, a chance to live out our Wesleyan calling to “do no harm, do good, and stay in love with God.” Come as you are. Bring your story, your faith, and your hope for Tennessee. Together, we’ll remind our leaders what love looks like when it shows up in person.
Please contact our team at twk.church.society@twkumc.org with any additional questions
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