All citizens have the right, responsibility, and privilege to be involved in policy making. Advocacy plays a key role in our democracy, allowing groups of people to come together to share a united voice with their elected representatives, and all should feel comfortable petitioning policy makers. Public participation is key to ensuring that these local, state, and national leaders know your perspective.

As a part of the broad arts community—whether an artist, performer, organizational leader, parent of children in schools, audience member or just a lover of the arts—you know the impacts and importance of a creative South Dakota first hand. Combine this with the tools and tactics in this guide to talk to your school board, city council, state and national legislators, and others to help make your voice heard.