Why Advocate?

Advocacy means presenting a value based case and supporting information to persuade others to support your cause. Citizens who advocate make things happen. Without assertive advocacy, funding for the arts In Colorado will remain where it is today- near the bottom of all fifty states. A statewide program of advocacy that demonstrates grassroots support for state arts funding sends a powerful message to policy makers at the state level that the people of Colorado value arts and culture in their communities.

Advocacy in Action:

Maryo Ewell, at her home county convention, demonstrated how to use the opportunity provided at a county political convention to introduce the following resolution:

"The Gunnison County Democratic Party should encourage the federal government to heed research that links arts education to citizenship, social effectiveness, and creative thinking; and further resolve that the arts be given equal weight with reading, writing, science and math in American schools in order to ensure development of the creativity that future leaders will require to develop a prosperous and sustainable American economy."

Arts for Colorado urges any of our constituents who are planning to attend a convention this spring to initiate a similar action. With local political entities on record as supporting the arts in education, we will have more leverage with our elected officials.

Advocacy in the arts promotes:

Economic Growth
Youth Development
Tourism
Creative Industry
Community Building

Tips for communicating with elected officials

Remember that telephone calls are usually taken by a staff member. Ask to speak with the aide who handles the issue about which you wish to comment. After identifying yourself, tell the aide you would like to leave a brief message, such as: "Please tell Senator / Representative {name} that I support / oppose _____." You should also state reasons for your support or opposition to the bill. Ask for your senators' or representative's position on the bill. You may also request a written response to your telephone call.

Tips on writing your elected officials

(via mail or e-mail)

Your purpose for writing should be stated in the first paragraph of the letter. If your letter pertains to a specific piece of legislation identify it according to the bill number.
Be courteous, to the point, and include key information, using examples to support your position.
Address only one issue in each letter; and, if possible, keep the letter to one page.