Our nation’s capital was covered in purple yesterday, Tuesday, June 20, on the 10th anniversary of National Pancreatic Cancer Advocacy Day. That’s because more than 650 passionate advocates, including more than 100 pancreatic cancer survivors, were on Capitol Hill to urge their members of Congress to make cancer research a national priority. All 50 states were represented, and thousands more from every state called their senators and representative to echo that same message. Take a look at a few highlights from the historic event.

Over 650 supporters from all 50 states gather on the U.S. Capitol steps for National Pancreatic Cancer Advocacy Day
More than 650 people from all 50 states attended Advocacy Day. Some of them took time for a group shot on the steps of the U.S. Capitol between their congressional meetings.

Over 100 pancreatic cancer survivors stand together on the steps of the U.S. Capitol for the 10th anniversary of Advocacy Day
There were over 100 survivors who attended Advocacy Day this year.

Pancreatic cancer advocate smiles in front of the U.S. Capitol building holding up photos of her loved ones
Advocate Monica-Amit Mishra of Michigan between meetings on Capitol Hill.

Pancreatic cancer advocates from Iowa raise their arms together in solidarity on the steps of the U.S. Capitol
Advocates from Iowa gather for a photo on the Capitol steps.

Two young boys smile while holding signs saying they will step up, stand tall and act boldly for pancreatic cancer research
Young advocates, whose loved ones have been affected by pancreatic cancer, took their stories and signs to Capitol Hill

Large group of men and women from North Carolina smile after an advocacy meeting in a congressional office on Capitol Hill
Delegates from the state of North Carolina wrap up a meeting on Capitol Hill.

Four young girls wearing purple and holding stuffed PanCAN bears, color signs for National Pancreatic Cancer Advocacy Day
It’s never too early to start advocating for causes you believe in, and these young advocates agree.

Teen embraces his mom outside of the Dirksen Senate Office Building before meeting with U.S. senators about pancreatic cancer
Daniel Arad and his mother, Jing Tian, of California outside the Dirksen Senate Office Building before heading in to meet with their U.S. senators.

See more photos of our advocates in action at the 10th anniversary of National Pancreatic Cancer Advocacy Day.