Important considerations
Individuals and organizations have the right and the duty to participate in the legislative process. Why?
- Government affects every aspect of our lives.
- In a democracy, government responds to the wishes of the people.
- If you don’t lobby, remember someone else with a different viewpoint or cause will.
Do’s and Don’ts of Advocacy
As an individual you may:
- Contribute money to candidates of your choice.
- Invite your friends to an arts fund-raiser/coffee party for a candidate at your home.
- Volunteer to work on a candidate’s campaign.
You may not:
- Participate in these campaign activities as an employee of your organization. It is okay to educate legislators about the arts as part of your workday, but it is NOT okay to help their election efforts during your workday.
Your non-profit organization may:
- Educate elected officials on issues of concern in the arts community.
- Arrange meetings with elected officials to learn their views on the arts.
- Invite elected officials to meetings of the organization to talk about the arts.
- Send literature on arts issues to elected officials.
Your non-profit organization may not:
- Endorse or oppose candidates for public office.
- Collect or distribute funds for political campaigns.
- Give candidates your mailing lists.
- Donate use of your facilities for political fundraising.