Aden — The Washington Center for Yemen Studies (WCYS) convened its second annual Yemen Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill, bringing together over 130 Yemeni Americans from 17 states to discuss the urgent political, humanitarian, and developmental challenges facing Yemen.

In a series of high-level meetings with 64 congressional offices and three committee representatives, WCYS emphasized the need for stronger U.S. diplomatic engagement, increased accountability for human rights violations, and sustainable development strategies to support Yemen’s long-term recovery. The discussions also addressed the role of the Yemeni American community in shaping policy and advocating for peace and stability in the region.

Notable participants included a U.S.-elected Yemeni-American judge, a mayor, a state representative, and several civil society leaders. Representatives from the U.S. State Department and the Office of the Special Envoy to Yemen also attended, offering insights into current diplomatic efforts and policy shifts.

The event underscored a unified message from diverse Yemeni political voices: a call for an end to internal violence, rejection of non-state armed groups, and a commitment to inclusive dialogue. WCYS reaffirmed its mission to amplify Yemeni American perspectives in U.S. foreign policy and promote civic participation as a cornerstone of bilateral relations.