Capitol Day 2026 wasn’t just a moment—it was a coalition meeting the moment. Over two days in Springfield, Arts Alliance Illinois and advocates from across the state stepped into action to make the case that arts and culture are not a luxury – they are essential infrastructure that moves opportunity forward across every stage of life. At a time when demand for arts funding continues to rise, our network showed up ready to lead—and ready to win.
For those who couldn’t join us, here’s how our creative coalition showed up and where we’re headed next.
Check out our Capitol Day photo album here, captured by photographer Kari Bedford.
Our Impact in Springfield
- We had a total of 125 advocates representing 41 municipalities and 94 districts across Illinois, with 52% of attendees coming from outside of Chicago. 55% of attendees joined us for their first-ever Capitol Day—expanding the reach of advocacy and strengthening the conditions for opportunity in communities statewide.
- We held 45+ meetings with legislators and staff, building relationships and opening doors for deeper engagement. This included identifying new legislators interested in joining the Creative Caucus!
- We are actively following up with legislators about our requests to increase funding for the Illinois Arts Council (IAC) and expand caucus membership. We’re already seeing progress.
Highlights from the Journey
- IAC Reception: We were proud to join the Illinois Arts Council and partners at the Illinois State Museum, alongside State Senator Dave Koehler and State Representatives Kimberly du Buclet and Theresa Mah. Moments like this reinforce the role of strong public institutions in anchoring our sector and connecting policymakers to the people and programs they support.
- Artists’ Jam at Boone’s Saloon: Before our day under the dome, advocates gathered to share their artistry and remind us all what’s at stake. We had a night cap at Boone’s to enjoy live performances from our advocates. Our big tent is full of talent! That creative expression is the foundation of a thriving creative workforce.
- Breakfast Briefing: We kicked off Capitol Day with a powerful program centered on personal stories, shared purpose, and a unified message. Investing in the arts means investing in what matters. It supports our communities, our workforce and our future.
- At the Capitol: Advocates fanned out across the Capitol for a full day of meetings, delivering a clear and consistent message. Arts and culture are essential infrastructure that drive economic vitality, strengthen communities, and expand opportunity across Illinois. This is how we meet the moment, by showing up with clarity, urgency, and a shared vision for what is possible.
- Debrief at Clique: After a packed 24 hours, advocates came together to reflect, recharge and build new relationships. Time and again, participants shared that one of the most powerful aspects of Capitol Day was connecting with fellow creatives from across Illinois. These connections build the sense of belonging that sustains this work moving forward.
- Gratitude to our Sponsors: We extend our deepest thanks to the partners who made this experience possible, including Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln, DePaul University School of Music, DePaul University Theatre School, Galesburg Community Foundation, Illinois State University Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts, Paul Kassel (Dean of NIU College of Visual and Performing Arts), and Northern Illinois University College of Visual and Performing Arts.
Turning Momentum into Action
Capitol Day was just the beginning. The impact is already taking shape.
Since our time in Springfield, lawmakers have begun moving beyond verbal support. They are now formally signing on to our proposal to increase funding for the Illinois Arts Council. This is what it looks like to meet the moment. Stories from communities across Illinois are translating into real commitments that will reinvest in our state’s creative future.
We are not done yet.
Take Action Today: Help Move More Lawmakers from Support to Signature
We are at a critical point. Some legislators have already signed on, but many have not. Moving forward, your voice can help turn momentum into measurable progress.
Use our Action Center to contact your State Representative and State Senator today. Thousands of arts allies already have. Urge state lawmakers to sign on in support of our Illinois Arts Council budget request.
This is how we complete the work we started. We do it by investing in what matters and ensuring every community in Illinois has access to the opportunities the arts make possible.
What’s Next?
- Stay Engaged: If you are subscribed to our email newsletter, we will continue to share updates on our advocacy and ways to stay involved. Consider becoming a member of Arts Alliance to help strengthen our collective voice.
- Explore Our Advocacy Tools:
- NEW Bill Tracker: Track arts-related legislations as it moves through the General Assembly.
- Action Center: Send a message to your legislators and help build support for increased funding.
- 2027 Capitol Day Interest Form: Be the first to know about next year’s advocacy day.
Capitol Day 2026 showed what’s possible when a statewide creative coalition shows up with purpose. Moving forward, we will continue meeting the moment, investing in what matters, and building the power needed to secure a stronger creative future for Illinois.