Advocacy
Advocacy is about building a relationship with your elected official. Provide them with information on the issues that matter most to you, and let them know about the good work arts and culture is doing in their district. The most effective advocates are able to concisely make the case for arts and culture.
This page provides information resources for your advocacy efforts.
What can I do to advocate for arts and culture?
- Stay informed about current funding and policy issues. Since the Division relies on the cultural community to make the case for arts and culture, groups such as the Florida Cultural Alliance, the Florida Association of Museums and Americans for the Arts are the best sources for current information.
- Provide information about how arts and culture affect your community or district. Arts and culture (and the Division programs that support arts and culture) are important components of the vitality of your community. Use the resources below to help you make the case.
- Be involved! It is important for constituents to make the case for arts and culture with their elected officials. Advocacy should be a year-round activity and not reserved solely for Legislative session.
- Vote, contact your elected officials, advocate for what arts and culture do for your community. Encourage board members and political donors to contact their elected officials, too. Together an active constituency can make a difference.
- Most importantly, do not delay your efforts! It is important for State Legislators to hear from their constituents in their home offices before session starts, so plan to advocate throughout the year.
How does the Division make funding requests to the Florida Legislature?
The Division submits its budget request for General Program Support, Specific Cultural Projects, State Touring, Individual Artist Fellowships, Cultural Facilities and Cultural Endowments through the Department of State's Legislative Budget Request. The request includes the ranked lists for General Program Support, Specific Cultural Projects, Cultural Facilities and Cultural Endowments. The cultural constituency is encouraged to advocate for arts and culture funding.
Resources
Facts and Tips
Advocacy Groups
Finding your Elected Officials
Online Sunshine, The Official Internet Site of the Florida Legislature
