If you wish to conduct legislative visits in Washington, D.C., outside of Arts Advocacy Day, Dance/USA’s Government Affairs Department will schedule your meetings, prepare you with talking points and leave-behind materials, and accompany you during the meetings.
Email advocacy@nulldanceusa.org for more information.
Either way, here are some tips to use in meeting your legislators:
- Prepare Talking Points
What issues do you want to focus on in your meeting? Does the legislator sit on committees that oversee those issues? Most meetings are brief. Advance preparation will help you speak concisely and effectively. - Share Relevant, Personal Stories
How has your dance organization benefited from NEA support? What community partnerships are you engaged in? Did arts education play a role in your childhood? How were you first exposed to the arts? - Provide Leave-Behinds
Though many staffers attempt to take detailed notes, a leave-behind outlining your “ask” and reasons for the “ask” will ensure your message is passed on accurately to the legislator. - Bring Plenty of Business Cards
You want to guarantee the staffer knows who you are and can easily contact you in the future. Ask the staffer for his or her business card as well. - Email a Thank-You Note
A brief thank-you note to the staffer for sharing their time with you is always appreciated and can reinforce your connection.
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Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in guest posts do not necessarily represent the viewpoints of Dance/USA.
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