We have important news to share with you from Thursday’s Celiac Disease Foundation 2021 Patient Education & Advocacy Summit — Rep. Steve Stivers (R-OH) announced the formation of the first-ever Congressional Celiac Disease Caucus for the 117th Congress. Representatives Betty McCollum (D-MN) and Stivers have agreed to co-chair this Caucus. Representative Tim Ryan (D-OH) has agreed to become a member of the Caucus. The paperwork for formal recognition of the Caucus by the House was submitted by Rep. Stivers’ office on February 25, 2021.
This is a huge step towards increasing recognition in Congress and, by extension, all of government, of celiac disease. As you know, for decades, Washington, DC essentially ignored celiac disease and its impact on millions of Americans. You understand the consequences of this historic slight, especially the lack of any FDA-approved treatments for the disease.
We have seen again and again that congressional caucuses are important in Washington because they present an opportunity for Members of Congress and their staff with a common interest to:
- convene,
- share information,
- elevate awareness among other Members and their staff, and
- amplify the voice of the patient community.
In the coming weeks, we will provide you with tools to ask your Members of Congress to join the Congressional Celiac Disease Caucus.
This is the kind of work your generous donations to the Celiac Disease Foundation empowers. We have committed extraordinary resources towards our efforts in Washington. Our progress over the last 24 months has been substantial, but we cannot afford to relax now. If you are able, please consider a tax-deductible donation to help us accelerate research for new treatments and to find a cure.
Thank you,
Marilyn G. Geller
Chief Executive