Common Questions
Here are some questions we often receive. Let’s clear things up.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Dominicans on the Hill is a national platform and annual conference that brings together Dominican-American leaders, professionals, and community members to engage in policymaking, entrepreneurship, civic leadership, and advocacy. It aims to strengthen the collective influence of the Dominican diaspora in U.S. public life.
The 8th Annual Conference will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, in two venues:
- Morning: Congressional Visitor Center (CVC)
- U.S. Capitol, 1st St SE, Washington, DC 20515
- Link to U.S. Capitol Map
- The Capitol Visitor Center, the main entrance to the U.S. Capitol, is located beneath the East Front plaza of the U.S. Capitol at First Street and East Capitol Street.
- Afternoon: Capital Turnaround – Washington, D.C.
- 700 M Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
Here is a partial list of the prohibited items:
- Liquid, including water
- Food or beverages of any kind, including fruit and unopened packaged food
- Any bag larger than 18″ wide x 14″ high x 8.5″ deep
- Aerosol containers
- Non-aerosol spray (Prescriptions for medical needs are permitted.)
- Any pointed object, e.g. knitting needles and letter openers (Pens and pencils are permitted.)
- Electric stun guns, martial arts weapons or devices
- Guns, replica guns, ammunition, and fireworks
- Knives of any size
- Mace and pepper spray
- Razors and box cutters
Over 500 participants including:
- Community and cultural leaders
- Public servants and elected officials
- Entrepreneurs and business leaders
- Academics, professionals, and students
- Delegates from the Dominican Republic’s public, private, and nonprofit sectors
REGISTRATION & ATTENDANCE
Yes. However, space is limited and advance registration is required.
Registration will open through an official online portal. A link will be provided through our website, social media, and organizational partners.
This year there is no registration fee. We always welcome sponsorships from corporations, institutions, and community organizations. Please contact us for more information.
Yes. Attendees can choose to participate in the CVC sessions, Capital Turnaround programing, or both—depending on capacity and registration confirmation.
Due to security and space limitations, walk-in access is not guaranteed. Early registration is strongly recommended.
PROGRAMMING & SPEAKERS
Advancing Health, Policy and Opportunity — focusing on health equity, economic mobility, public service, leadership, and advancement of the Dominican community within U.S. institutions.
The event hosts national policymakers, leading professionals, influential community figures, and Dominican-Americans that are shaping U.S. culture, politics, entrepreneurship, media, and the arts. A full list will be released as we get closer to the event.
Some sessions may be livestreamed and/or recorded. Further details, closer to the date of the event.
Yes. The conference includes policy panels, fireside chats, keynote addresses, and structured networking sessions designed to promote collaboration and professional growth. –See the Proposed Agenda
LOGISTICS & TRAVEL
Yes. All attendees must present a valid government-issued ID to access the U.S. Capitol complex.
Business or business-casual attire is recommended. Guests meeting with congressional offices may prefer more formal attire.
- Parking is very limited near the Capitol. Public transportation or rideshare is strongly encouraged. Link to U.S. Capitol Map
- Capital Turnaround offers nearby paid parking options. Link to Capital Turnaround Parking Information
Airports that are closest to the venues.
- Reagan National Airport (DCA) – closest and most convenient
- Baltimore/Washington International (BWI)
- Dulles International Airport (IAD)
Metro Access
U.S. Capitol Visitors Center: There are three subway stops found within walking distance of the Capitol:
- Union Station – Located at First Street, NW, and Massachusetts Avenue.
- Capitol South – Located at First Street between C and D Streets, SE.
- Federal Center, SW – Located at the southwest corner of Third and D Streets, SW.
Capital Turnaround: Take the Green Line to Navy Yard-Ballpark and walk 10 minutes east on M Street or take the Blue, Orange or Silver Lines to the Eastern Market station and walk 11 minutes south along 7th Street.
There are also several bus stops close to the campus.
Driving Directions
Capital Turnaround: Address for mapping us on your phone: 700 M St. SE, Washington, DC 20003
We are located at 700 M St SE (entrance on 7th St) at the intersection of Capitol Hill, the Navy Yard, and the Capitol Riverfront neighborhoods.
From the Highway
We are only a few blocks from I-695.
From I-395, exit onto I-695 east. Exit I-695 at the “6th Street SE” exit.
Take the 6th St SE exit from I-695. Use the right lane to merge onto Virginia Ave SE. Turn right onto 8th St SE. Turn right onto M St SE.
From Northwest DC or Capitol Hill
Go to Pennsylvania Avenue SE and turn south onto 7th Street SE. Capital Turnaround is south of the highway between L and M Streets.
Micro-Hotels in Washington, D.C.:
citizenM Hotel -NoMa) 1222 1st Street NE, Washington, DC 20002
citizenM Hotel -Capitol) 550 School Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Motto by Hilton -DC City Center 627 H Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
YOTEL -Washington DC 415 New Jersey Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20001
Hotel Zena -Viceroy 1155 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
Hotel Hive 2224 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20037
PARTICIPATION & ENGAGEMENT
Yes. Sponsorship packages are available for corporations, institutions, and community organizations. Details will be distributed separately.
Volunteers are essential to the success of the conference. A volunteer interest form will be shared closer to the event date.
Absolutely. Students, especially those interested in public service, leadership, policy, or the Dominican diaspora, are encouraged to participate.
Participants are encouraged to coordinate their own meetings. Guidance will be offered for those seeking to engage with members of Congress or staffers.
CULTURE, COMMUNITY & MEDIA
Yes. The program traditionally includes cultural showcases, artistic presentations, and recognition of Dominican American excellence.
Accredited media organizations may request credentials. A media registration form will be provided.
Yes, but each guest must register individually due to capacity and security restrictions.
OTHER QUESTIONS
The conference is led by a national Conference Committee composed of Dominican-American leaders across sectors, in partnership with institutional and community organizations.
Still have questions?
If you didn’t find what you were looking for, feel free to reach out. Our team is here to help with any additional questions or concerns you might have.