WASHINGTON, D.C. – More than 500 independent direct selling consultants representing 20 companies, 32 states, and the District of Columbia met with members of Congress today during Direct Selling Association’s (DSA’s) third annual Direct Selling Day on Capitol Hill.

 

“Direct selling is one of the oldest ways entrepreneurial-minded Americans have chosen to work independently, and there is tremendous value to those who become involved and to our economy.” said Joseph N. Mariano, President of DSA.

Direct sellers visited Washington, D.C. to discuss the importance of direct selling to the economy and remind policymakers of the opportunity it provides to pursue meaningful independent work.

 

Participants in meetings with legislators and their staffs shared personal stories about how working independently as direct sellers has helped them achieve various goals. This year’s event also features congressional speakers from both parties and a Direct Selling Marketplace located in the Rayburn House Office building foyer between 11:15 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., where members and staffers can get a first-hand look at what direct selling is all about.

 

In a floor statement for the Congressional Record made by former direct seller and Direct Selling Caucus co-chair Rep. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), the House of Representatives formally recognized today, October 29, 2015, as Direct Selling Day. Rep. Blackburn stated, “I am honored to be a founding co-chair of the Direct Selling Caucus, which was established in January and announced at a Direct Selling Association (DSA) event with participants and constituents from around the country. As a full time student, direct selling provided me with the flexibility necessary to pay for college while in school. Running my own business was an extremely rewarding experience and served as great preparation for my career in public service. It is a vibrant sector of the economy that embraces entrepreneurship and helps people achieve their American dream….Just as important to the continued success of direct selling are the safeguards that the industry, through the Direct Selling Association’s leadership, put into place. They promote high standards of business ethics and consumer protection.”

 

Mariano continued, “We look forward to working with members of Congress to ensure there is an understanding of the substantial economic and personal value that’s derived from meaningful, independent work like direct selling.”