Advocacy Resources
What is Advocacy?
Advocacy is providing active support and education in favor of a cause, issue or organization. Lobbying is a specialized kind of advocacy that refers to the attempt to influence specific legislation through communication with a legislator or a legislative staff member. Why Advocate?
Advocacy makes a difference. Our federal, state and city budgets are tight. Many worthy causes compete for public dollars. Our job as arts advocates is to communicate with our elected officials about how the arts provide a public benefit and are an important investment into the state's economy.
Contact Your Elected Officials
State Advocacy Resources
Indiana Coalition for the Arts
The Indiana Coalition for the Arts has advocated for the arts in Indiana since 1980. It partners with the Indiana Coalition for the Arts Foundation, which provides educational services and programs to artists and arts providers throughout the state. The Coalition retains a professional lobbyist in Indianapolis to represent the concerns of the arts industry in the Indiana Statehouse. The Coalition is managed by a volunteer board of directors and exists on membership dollars from arts advocates around the state. If you believe in public support for the arts in Indiana, you are encouraged to support the work of the Coalition by becoming a member. Visit the INCA's website to sign up for periodic Action Alerts, learn about arts issues in our state and much more.
National Advocacy Resources
Americans for the ArtsAmericans for the Arts is the nation's leading arts advocacy organization, employing professional lobbyists who are dedicated to representing and serving local communities and creating opportunities for every American to participate in and appreciate all forms of the arts. Partnering with local, state, and national arts organizations; government agencies; business leaders; individual philanthropists; educators; and funders throughout the country allows Americans for the Arts to reach their goals and provide industry knowledge and professional development opportunities.
United We Serve
The United We Serve campaign is President Obama's call to service, challenging all Americans to engage in meaningful service to meet growing social needs resulting from the economic downturn. Arts organizations are encouraged to get involved by observing September 11 as a national day of service and remembrance. Participating organizations are encouraged to:- Remember the events of 9/11, including lessons learned
- Recognize and celebrate community projects that happened this summer
- Make an impact by engaging in a service project (visit Serve.gov to post/find projects)
- Commit to continue working together to strengthen communities
You can visit the links below to learn more about United We Serve and ways to get involved.
- September 11th Day of Remembrance & Service Talking Points
- Sample Press Release
- Sample Media Advisory
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