Advocacy FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions About Advocacy

Tips for Advocating for the Arts

What do I need to be an arts advocate?

You need to be informed about the arts in your community and share the information with policy makers. It is also a good idea to understand the legislative process when sharing information with legislators.

How do I make contact with my legislators?

With hundreds of bills to consider each year, Ohio's legislators need the opinions and specialized knowledge of their constituents to guide them. House and Senate members welcome your letters, telephone calls and e-mails.

How do I find my legislators' telephone number, e-mail and address?

You can call the toll-free legislative number at 1-800-282-0253. You can e-mail your Senator using this address: sd**@mailr.sen.state.oh.us simply insert the district number where the ** appear. To e-mail you House or Representatives member use this email address: rep**@ohr.state.oh.us simply insert the district number where the ** appear.

Letters should be addressed:

If I want to visit my legislator what should I do?

Call the legislatorís office (in the community or in Columbus) and request an appointment. You can call the legislative toll-free number to be connected 1-800-282-0253.

What do I do at a meeting with my legislator?

Introduce yourself and say what organization you are affiliated with. Share your enjoyment in working with the arts (attending, supporting, volunteering, working, studying) and why the arts are important to you and your community. Express thanks for the legislator's previous support for Ohio Arts Council funding that supports the arts in every county in Ohio. Ask the legislator how you can assist with issues related to the arts. Offer your expertise to assist the legislator when he/she is making decisions affecting the arts. Be sure to leave your name, address, telephone number and e-mail address so that you can be contacted when needed.

What if my Senator or Representative already supports the arts?

You should thank them for their support. Never take their support for granted. Ask them to be proactive in supporting the arts. Provide them with personal anecdotes and stories of activities in their district to use in speeches. Provide them with data to show the economic impact of the arts in your community. Let them know about innovative partnerships at the local and state levels and give examples. Encourage them to take a leadership role in supporting pubic funding for the arts. Thank them again for their support.