Arts Advocacy Day 2009 (3/30/2009)
Washington, D.C. - Tuesday, March 31 is National Arts Advocacy Day, an opportunity for you to join with advocates across the country as they communicate to policymakers. The League is a national co-sponsor of Arts Advocacy Day and participates in the legislative planning committee that constructs the messages carried by arts advocates nationwide. Please write or call your members of Congress to raise your voice in support of favorable arts policies.
Steps to Take Action:
1) Read up on the League's Key Issues for complete background and talking points about the range of issues impacting orchestras. Choose the topics of most importance to your orchestra.
2) Contact your members of Congress by taking part in one of the advocacy campaigns we've set up for you. Please personalize the template letter and remember that identical copies of your communication go to your Representative and Senators. Active campaigns include:
- Support an Increase in NEA Funding for FY2010
- Strengthen Arts Education in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act
- Improve Arts in Education Funding and Research
- Extend the IRA Charitable Rollover
- Revive the Artist Fair-Market Deduction
- Improve the Artist Visa Process
- Strengthen Opportunities for Cultural Exchange
3) Please feel welcome to contact League Government Affairs staff with any questions!
Advocacy Starts in Your Own Community
Advocacy is a year-long job, so we also suggest that, in the near future, you schedule a meeting with your representatives, in their home offices, and continue to communicate with them throughout the spring and summer. When Congress takes a recess from DC, it is the perfect opportunity to set up a meeting in your community. Consider inviting your elected officials to see your orchestra's concerts and community programs in action. To find out when your representatives will be home, view our 2009 Calendar of Advocacy Opportunities.