Operation Advocacy 2026: A Community Effort to be Heard

News from LINC

Operation Advocacy (OA) is LINC’s annual Legislative day of advocacy in conjunction with the annual Fred Riggers Disability Advocacy Day. OA involves a series of training around things like telling your story followed by a day of meetings with Idaho State Legislators on issues important to Idahoans with disabilities across the lifespan.
Between January 12 and February 4, communities across Southwest and South-Central Idaho came together in meaningful ways. Operation Advocacy 2026 brought together individuals with disabilities, families, partner agencies, and grassroots leaders around a shared message: protect critical Medicaid programs that allow people to live and thrive in their communities.

Five regional advocacy trainings in Caldwell, Twin Falls, and Boise helped more than 90 self-advocates strengthen their skills, learn about current policy issues, and prepare to meet with lawmakers. Many participants were already engaged in ongoing leadership development opportunities, reflecting a growing and connected network of advocates.

“People appreciated that we came to their community so they could participate in Operation Advocacy,” said Emily Peterson.

Partnerships played a key role throughout the effort. Members of Las Señoras participated in in-person advocacy training, strategic planning, and coordinated meetings with six Idaho legislators. Community partners worked together to provide transportation support, meeting coordination, and informational materials so advocates could feel prepared and confident.

The momentum continued at the Capitol. Hundreds of people attended Fred Riggers Disability Advocacy Day. More than fifty advocates joined the Network Dinner co-hosted with the Idaho State Independent Living Council. Finally, over 600 people participated in the Medicaid public forum. Newsletters and action alerts circulated widely, helping drive strong public participation.

Across all activities, more than 1,200 individuals were reached. The message was clear: Idaho’s disability community is engaged, informed, and committed to protecting services that matter. This is collective advocacy in action — and there is always room for more voices.

LINC has three offices to serve you. www.lincidaho.org

1182 Eastland Drive North Suite C
Twin Falls ID 83301
(208) 733-1712 VOICE
(208) 733-7711 TDD

1878 West Overland Road
Boise ID 83705
(208) 336-3335 VOICE
(208) 336-3335 TDD
(208) 384-5037 FAX

703 S. Kimball Ave
Caldwell ID 83605
(208) 454-5511 VOICE
(208) 454-5511 TDD
(208) 454-5515 FAX