Arts Day in Albany
In March, when state budget negotiations are heating up, busloads of artists and arts administrators from New York City go to Albany to explain the value of arts funding to the legislators. Divided into teams that represent different aspects of the arts sector, they visit lawmakers in their offices. The teams are able to make a strong case for increased funds for the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA). They explain how they use state funding, why they need more, and how this investment contributes to the social well being and the economy of the entire state. This unique opportunity allows people of different arts disciplines to unite in presenting their needs to legislators.

The New York City Arts Coalition provides

• Information on the history of the State’s allocations to NYSCA and the status of the current budget proposals for arts funding.
• Materials for the lawmakers and their staffs, which clearly and briefly explain what the arts field needs.
• Advocacy tips on how to make the most effective case for increased appropriations to NYSCA.

What happens

• Arts advocates visit Senators and Members of the Assembly in teams.
• Teams are made up of people with different backgrounds. One team may include an actor, a museum administrator, and an arts educator, all of whom offer pertinent information about their experiences.
• Lawmakers hear direct, personal examples of the various needs and successes of the arts, and the reasons why funding this sector is imperative.

Registration information will be here when the event is scheduled in the winter.
Check back for details.