Advocacy
Advocacy Committee
From the Chair of Advocacy
“As Chair of the Advocacy Committee of the Texas Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (TAAOM), my mission is to build a stronger bridge between licensed acupuncturists and Texas lawmakers. Our committee is dedicated to advancing legislation, insurance inclusion, and public recognition that reflect acupuncture’s vital role in modern healthcare. I call on all practitioners to unite, speak with one voice, and work together to strengthen and protect our profession for the future. ”
— Dr. Sylvia He, Chair of Advocacy, TAAOM
AUSTIN, TX – October 30, 2025 – The Texas State Capitol became a hub of holistic health as the Texas Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (TAAOM) hosted its inaugural Texas Acupuncture Awareness Day. The event united acupuncturists, students, and legislators to champion the role of Traditional East Asian Medicine in Texas healthcare.
A Day of Connection, Advocacy, and Action
Over 30 professionals and students traveled from Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, and beyond to take part in the event. Inside the Capitol’s Legislative Conference Center, practitioners offered complimentary holistic services — including tongue and pulse diagnosis, acupressure, and mini-acupuncture treatments — to nearly 50 state employees and visitors.
The Capitol rotunda came alive with public Tai Chi and Qigong demonstrations, where applause echoed through the halls as attendees experienced firsthand the calm strength and mindfulness at the heart of our medicine.
Voices of Our Profession
Keynote speaker Senator Molly Cook, also an active emergency room nurse, spoke about the growing convergence of Eastern and Western medicine, offering a vital healthcare perspective that resonated deeply with attendees. The event also received supportive messages from Representative Gene Wu and other leaders across the integrative medicine community, including IMA and TCMAAA.
“This event powerfully raised awareness among both policymakers and the
public,” said Dr. Adylle Varon, Board Member and Secretary of TAAOM. “We
not only demonstrated the value of our medicine but also strengthened our
professional community across the state.”
A Collective Step Forward
The success of this inaugural event marks a significant milestone for acupuncture and Oriental medicine in Texas, setting the stage for ongoing advocacy and integration within the state’s healthcare system.
TAAOM extends its heartfelt gratitude to all members, volunteers, students, and supporters who made the day possible. Your dedication, professionalism, and passion continue to elevate our medicine and inspire progress.
