WAYS TO ADVOCATE

COMMUNICATE A CLEAR MESSAGE

-The message is the answer to the question: "Why is learning in the visual arts essential to education in the 21st century?”

-Use data.

-Tell compelling personal stories.

-Tap into your Network's values and concerns.

-Make your message VISIBLE.

NAEA has developed key messages including the overall theme of

Learning in A Visual Age - click here to access this great resource!

BE VISIBLE

-Make an advocacy plan.

-Get out of the art room/studio and into the community with your MESSAGE.

-Capitalize on the “visual” part of the visual arts.

-Show your NETWORK what visual literacy, 21st century college and career readiness, and engaged learning look like through exhibitions, media stories and community events.

REMEMBER: The work and “voices” of your students are the most compelling.

ACTIVATE AN ADVOCACY NETWORK

-Identify and build an advocacy network. Action requires committed people. Include media, legislators, education decision makers and parents.

-Work with your state/regional NAEA organization to partner with your state Alliance for Arts Education affiliate and your state’s arts advocacy citizens group.

-Communicate your MESSAGE to your network.

-Leverage your network to impact policy and budget.

-Keep your network engaged by being VISIBLE.

-Activate your network in times of crisis.

REMEMBER: A parent network can be your most effective advocacy tool. Think social networking.

GET MORE GREAT IDEAS AND TOOLS

NAEA has an amazing array of resources, tools and ideas to help you showcase what you do best. Click here to access their advocacy page.

Every Student Deserves Access

Every student deserves the opportunity to create, innovate, and thrive through the arts, regardless of zip code or family income. Yet more than 2 million students still lack access to a quality arts education.

Arts in education drives student success across every measure:

• Academic Achievement: Higher test scores and graduation rates

• Workforce Readiness: Building the creativity and collaboration skills that 72% of business leaders say are essential

• Student Wellness: Providing emotional outlets and supportive communities

• Equity: Ensuring all students can access transformative learning experiences

That’s why federal policy must protect and expand access to arts in education—starting with protecting the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), the largest national funder of arts education programs in communities across all 50 states.