What Is Phoenix Seminar?
At Phoenix Seminar, our members convene to learn about and advocate for legislative initiatives that will improve the lives of blind Arizonans. We will meet with our state Legislators it the State Capitol throughout the day as we discuss our legislative priorities with our members of the Arizona House of Representatives and Senate.
The 2025 Phoenix Seminar is just around the corner. Register now and receive important updates. Food will be provided! Please let us know if you have any food restrictions in the registration form below. Please consider donating to our movement here: Donate Now.
Date, Time, and Location
Date: Tuesday, January 21, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: Arizona State Capitol located at: 1700 West Washington Street Phoenix, AZ
Registration
Please complete the registration form below to sign up for the 2025 Phoenix Seminar as well as to receive updates including your appointment times.
Find Your Legislative and Congressional District Number
Use the link below to look up your legislative and congressional district number.
Click Here To Search For Legislative & Congressinal District Number
Legislative Priorities For 2025
(talking points coming soon)
- Accessible Mail in and Absentee Voting with Electronic Returns, and the Ability to Cast a Secret Ballot
- Increased funding for INDEPENDENT LIVING BLIND REHABILITATION SERVICES
- Update the Arizona State Braille Law’s criteria for Braille teachers to Unified English Braille and including the need for teachers of blind students to obtain the Unified English Braille Certification offered by the National Blindness Professionals Certification Board
Arizona State Capitol (Virtual tour via ChatGPT)
Starting Point: West Washington Street
- The Capitol complex is located at 1700 West Washington Street in Phoenix. Washington Street is a wide, busy road running east to west. It’s lined with government buildings, palm trees, and low-rise office structures. To the north, you can see clear blue skies and distant mountain ranges on a clear day.
- Sidewalks: Along Washington Street, the sidewalks are wide, smooth, and accessible, bordered by neatly trimmed grass and desert plants. The tall streetlights provide even lighting in the evening.
Approaching the Complex
- As you move closer, the first thing you notice is the Historic State Capitol Building, its copper dome glinting in the sunlight. Flanking it on the east and west are the House and Senate buildings, creating a sense of symmetry. Behind the historic building rises the tall Executive Tower, completing the vista.
Historic State Capitol Building
- Front Steps: You’ll arrive at a broad set of stairs leading up to the entrance. There’s also a ramp to the side for accessibility. The large, white columns at the entrance stand as a symbol of classical government architecture.
- Surroundings: The area around the building features lush green grass and landscaped flowerbeds with native plants like desert marigolds and agave.
Legislative Buildings (House and Senate)
- Moving to the east, you’ll find the House of Representatives Building, a boxy structure with large windows that shimmer in the sunlight. Its clean, modern lines contrast with the historic Capitol. To the west, the Senate Building mirrors this design, creating balance. Both buildings are surrounded by paved plazas and small gardens with desert flora.
Executive Tower
- Behind the Historic Capitol, the Executive Tower rises 10 stories high. Its glass windows and tan concrete exterior make it stand out while harmonizing with the surrounding architecture. The base of the tower features more landscaping, including benches and shaded areas for visitors to rest.
Monuments and Memorials
- Scattered throughout the Capitol grounds are several monuments and statues. These include tributes to military veterans, civil rights leaders, and historical events. One notable feature is a 9/11 Memorial, with a series of plaques and designs commemorating the tragedy.
- Another prominent piece is the Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza, located just to the east of the complex. It’s a large open space featuring fountains, memorials, and shaded seating areas.
Surrounding Streets
- 17th Avenue: This runs directly in front of the Capitol and is less busy than Washington Street. It’s lined with small trees and parking spaces for visitors.
- 15th Avenue: Just east of the complex, this street is more bustling, with office buildings and cafes nearby, providing a mix of business and leisure activity.
- Jefferson Street: Running parallel to Washington Street on the south side of the complex, this street provides additional access and parking areas.
Environment and Atmosphere
- The Capitol complex feels peaceful despite being in the heart of Phoenix. The landscaping, with its mix of green lawns and desert plants, creates a balanced, welcoming environment. The tall palm trees sway gently, adding to the Southwest ambiance.
- On a hot day, you might hear the faint hum of cicadas or the sound of water from nearby fountains.