Through good times and bad, we must continue to engage officials at the local and state levels.
By Andrew Schneider
Senior Director of Government Affairs
In times of uncertainty, arts leaders must proactively safeguard free expression and arts funding. With federal threats looming, it’s easy to focus advocacy efforts on Washington, D.C., but the most impactful work often happens closer to home. State and local lawmakers wield immense influence over arts policy and funding decisions. By prioritizing relationship-building with these leaders, we create a foundation for long-term support and resilience.
The Importance of State and Local-Level Mobilizing
Through good times and bad, arts advocates must engage officials at every level—not just when a crisis arises. Your outreach today determines whether lawmakers see you as a valued partner or an unfamiliar voice when critical decisions are on the table. Advocacy is an ongoing effort, not a one-time transaction.
There’s an old rule of advocacy: Never let your first meeting with a legislator be the one where you need something. The most effective relationships are built through consistent communication, shared experiences, and mutual respect. Legislators are inundated with information daily—never assume they fully understand your work or its impact on their constituents. It’s up to us to bridge that gap.
Common Advocacy Pitfalls to Avoid
Even well-intentioned efforts can fall flat due to common missteps. Here are the top mistakes arts leaders make in advocacy:
- Waiting until action is needed before making initial contact. If your first call to a lawmaker is in a moment of crisis, don’t be surprised if they’re unfamiliar with your organization or hesitant to act.
- Assuming one visit is enough. Relationships require ongoing investment. A single meeting won’t cement your organization’s importance in the policymaker’s mind.
- Expecting lawmakers to already understand your issues. Even the most well-meaning officials may not grasp the economic, cultural, and social benefits of the arts sector.
- Only engaging with those who share your political views. The arts transcend party lines. Building bipartisan relationships ensures broader support and lasting impact.
- Holding a grudge when you don’t get the response you wanted. Advocacy is about persistence. A legislator who isn’t on board today may be your strongest ally tomorrow.
6 Ways to Build Positive Relationships with Lawmakers
If you want lawmakers to champion the arts, you have to make it easy for them. Here’s how:
- Start and End with Gratitude
Thank your legislators for their support of the arts. Research has shown that saying thank you results in reciprocal generosity—where the thanked person is more likely to help the thanker.
- Position Yourself as a Resource
Share annual reports, economic impact studies, and relevant sector data. Show legislators how the arts contribute to the local economy, education, and community well-being.
- Invite Lawmakers to Your Events
A firsthand experience at a performance, gallery opening, or arts education program can leave a lasting impression. Publicly recognizing their attendance can further cement the relationship.
- Engage Lawmakers in Research and Exhibit Design
Involving decision-makers in program development not only informs them about your work but also gives them a personal stake in its success.
- Request Quotes for Press Releases and Announcements
Lawmakers appreciate positive media exposure. Inviting them to contribute statements about the value of the arts helps reinforce their public support.
- Solicit Letters of Support
Whether for grants, policy initiatives, or public funding requests, a letter from an elected official can add significant weight to your efforts.
Advocacy is a Long Game
The truth is, you get out of advocacy what you put into it. Strong relationships with lawmakers don’t develop overnight, but they are worth the investment. By cultivating these connections now, we strengthen our ability to protect and grow arts funding, regardless of what challenges lie ahead.
Take the first step today: Send your legislators an email to let them know that every dollar of the Governor’s proposed IAC allocation is critical to the creative vitality of our state, and thank the Governor for supporting arts and culture in this year’s budget proposal. Both actions take less than ten seconds!
While you’re at it, fill out our Temp Check Survey to help us assess the current landscape and guide our advocacy efforts. Together, we can ensure that the arts continue to thrive at every level of government.
