Washington DC Advocacy Week
February 3, 2025 - February 7, 2025
A Week of Advocacy, Impact, and Hope in Washington, D.C.

Dear ,

This past week in Washington, D.C., was nothing short of transformative. It was a week filled with powerful conversations, emotional testimony, and meaningful connections—each moment reinforcing why we continue to fight against the deadly fentanyl crisis. As exhausting as it was, our hearts are full, knowing that our advocacy is making a difference.

Monday, February 3rd: A Call to Action at the FBI Academy
The week began with an incredible opportunity to present at the FBI Academy, which we have done now many times. These presentations underscored the shared commitment between our premier law enforcement agencies and advocacy groups in tackling the fentanyl epidemic. We discussed the urgency of our mission, the devastating toll fentanyl has taken on families across the country, and how we can strengthen collaboration to prevent further loss. It was a sobering yet powerful start to the week—one that set the tone for everything that followed.

Tuesday, February 4th: Testifying for Change
Tuesday morning was one of the most emotional moments of my journey as an advocate. I had the honor of testifying before the Senate Judiciary Committee in support of the HALT Fentanyl Act, accompanied by my dear friends and fellow Advocates, Steve Filson, Andrea Thomas, Bridgette Norring, and Amy Neville. This is a crucial piece of legislation that aims to classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs, closing loopholes that allow traffickers to manipulate synthetic analogs and evade justice.

As I sat before lawmakers, I thought about my son, Daniel—his dreams, his laughter, and the life that was stolen from him at just 16½ years old. I wasn’t just speaking for myself; I was speaking for every grieving parent, every devastated sibling, and every family who has been shattered by fentanyl.

The weight of this crisis is unbearable, but in that moment, I felt the presence of all the beautiful souls we have lost. Their stories, their memories—they fuel this fight. The response from lawmakers and attendees was deeply moving, and I left that hearing with renewed determination to keep pushing forward.

That evening, after an emotionally heavy day, Andrea and I allowed ourselves a rare moment to unwind at a Washington Capitals hockey game. Watching them defeat the Florida Panthers was a welcome distraction, a reminder that even in the midst of grief and advocacy, moments of joy still matter.

Wednesday, February 5th: Speaking Out on Policy That Saves Lives
On Wednesday, speaking on behalf of V.O.I.D., I had the opportunity to speak with Reuters about President Trump’s recent decision to temporarily suspend the De Minimis exemption for China, Mexico, and Canada. This policy change has the potential to disrupt the flow of illicit fentanyl into the U.S., and I shared my thoughts on how critical it is to strengthen these regulations. Every step toward shutting down supply chains that allow fentanyl to flood our communities is a step toward saving lives.

Thursday, February 6th: Uniting for Change at CADCA
My final day in D.C. was spent at the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) National Leadership Forum, where I had the privilege of presenting at a breakout session. I spoke about how impacted family organizations such as V.O.I.D., are working alongside the DEA to amplify our message in schools and communities, ensuring that young people understand the true dangers of fentanyl before it’s too late.

I looked out at the audience—composed of passionate advocates, coalition leaders, and community members—and felt a deep sense of hope. We are not alone in this fight. There are good people working tirelessly to make a difference, and together, we are stronger.

That afternoon, I finally boarded a flight home, exhausted but profoundly  grateful. The moment I walked through the door and saw my beautiful wife and sister, I knew that every moment of this week had been worth it. The work we are doing is hard, but it is necessary. And as long as this scourge continues, we will continue to fight for awareness, accountability, and action.

The Road Ahead: We Need You
Advocacy does not end when the meetings are over, or the testimony is given—it is an ongoing battle that requires all of us. If this crisis has touched your life, I urge you to get involved. Contact your representatives, spread awareness, and support organizations like ours that are fighting to protect families.

I truly believe that together, we can turn the tide on this epidemic. For Daniel. For your loved ones. For every life that still has a chance to be saved.
Thank you to everyone who made this week possible. Your support, your voices, and your stories fuel this movement. We will not stop until real change is made.

With gratitude and determination,
Jaime Ignacio Puerta
Steve Filson
Chris Didier