Advocacy Made Simple

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.
  (HINT: NAEA has developed key messages including the overall theme of Learning in A Visual Age)

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.
  (HINT: 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.
  (HINT: A parent network can be your most effective advocacy tool. Think social networking.)