Advocacy Primer
 
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." Margaret Mead (1901 - 1978)
 
What is advocacy?
Advocacy is the work of advocating - supporting or speaking in favor of something. Advocacy is something we should all do if we believe in the value of arts education.

We often talk about advocacy as a conversation with a legislator, but other decision makers affect the level and quality of arts education in our schools - principals, teachers, school district administrators and School Boards - to name but a few.

Effective advocacy to these groups can have a dramatic impact, often evident more quickly.

Start here to become an "Everyday Advocate" in your community.
 
What is the difference between advocacy and lobbying?
Advocacy and lobbying are both integral parts of democracy in action.

Advocacy encompasses arguing for a cause, sharing facts and information with elected officials and building public understanding about the importance of an issue.

Lobbying is encouraging the passage or defeat of a specific legislative bill. The community at large has an essential role to play in both lobbying and advocacy, and each is essential for the development of public policy that encourages arts education in our schools and communities.
 
Why do people advocate?
  • To raise awareness
  • Educate
  • Change laws
  • Obtain funding
  • Improve services
How can I be a successful advocate?
  • Know your issue
  • Know what you want
  • Know your representatives' position
  • Know your facts, figures and statistics
  • Know what others are saying about this issue
  • Know who supports and who opposes
Advocacy and Lobbying: Speaking Up for the Arts, from The NASAA Advocate, is a straight-forward explanation of the power of individual advocates to shape public policy in support of the arts. It provides a teaching tool for turning arts supporters into arts advocates. With special attention to the advocacy responsibilities of arts organizations' board members, the publications clears up the myths about lobbying and advocacy and suggests strategies for engaging arts organizations in lobbying for legislation that will help support the arts.
 
How can I communicate with my elected officials?

Communicate with your elected officials via Washington State Arts Alliance's Legislative Action Center.

  • Write a letter to your legislator
  • Phone/fax your legislators' office
  • Write a letter-to-the-editor
  • Visit your legislators' office
Get Up-To-Speed
Access the best arts education advocacy tools and information - all in one place! Visit ArtsEd Washington's Advocacy Center.