Advocating for Visual Arts Education – Part 2

Starting an advocacy effort is not difficult. Many community arts organizations around the country offer advocacy training sessions.  Lots of small steps and joined hands have the potential to create a district-wide or even statewide movement.  So here are some Advocacy 101 basics.

  Accept that advocacy is part of the job.
"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

  Hone your message.
Know who you are talking to and what they care about. The NAEA Web site Advocacy tab contains current resources to build your case. Whether it’s a new study, a compelling anecdote or some fast facts, check the NAEA Web site early and often.

 
One of many helpful advocacy resources on the NEAE Web site.

  Integrate advocacy into everything you do as a professional.
Think about ways your teaching, professional development, personal interactions with students, staff, parents and community leaders can demonstrate the critical importance of Learning in a Visual Age.
 
  Create relationships with local media. 
TV stations, print media and blogs need content.  Invite members of the media to your exhibitions and events. Let them know when one of your students is recognized  for their accomplishments. Become the “expert” on the value of arts education, the name that comes up in reporters’ Outlook contacts.
 
  Form alliances.
The power of persuasion is increased by numbers. Align with parents, other art and cultural organizations, professional education organizations, local government and  business leaders to create the policies and programs needed to make high quality arts education accessible to all students.

  Be armed with the latest data.
Click the NAEA Web site Advocacy tab and get the facts. Set your Google news feed to capture articles about 21st century learning, creativity and innovation. Speak out on  behalf of arts education.

  Be at the table. 
Monitor education policy-making institutions and organizations including local, state and national legislators). Attend meetings and participate.

  Set up advocacy alert systems.
Use existing communications channels and incorporate social media sites for visibility on an ongoing basis and in the event of a “crisis.”

  Be visible.
Organize exhibitions. Allow secondary students to speak for themselves at events and to the media. Participate in other high visibility community projects showcasing student work and the unique skills gained through arts education.

Art on display at Scholastic Inc. Corporate Headquarters in NYC

  Be a beacon of CREATIVITY. (See post “Check Creative Pulse” – Feb. 8)
You are a living example of creativity and innovation.  Let your light shine!

-BJ Adler