Let your legislators know that you appreciate their support of the arts in your community.

• Share a story about the arts in your community.  Has it made an impact? Let them know how.
• Invite them to your upcoming events. Let them know that they are welcome and encourage them to attend.
• Have you received a grant from the South Dakota Arts Council? Thank your legislators for their continued support of the Department of Tourism and the South Dakota Arts Council.
• Let your legislators know of your mission and mention community members they may know.
• Refer to our Advocacy 101 sheet for help with officials. Use 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.
• Share the facts about the arts in South Dakota – The arts profoundly impact all South Dakotans.
• Offer them some data about the arts in South Dakota. Refer to our Arts Impact Map. Make it personal and relevant to your community.
• Offer talking points about Why the Arts Matter in South Dakota.
• Share the top 10 Reasons to Support the Arts in South Dakota
• Arts South Dakota maintains close relationships with South Dakota’s political leaders and often sends letters to our local, state, and national delegations, informing them of arts advocacy issues and concerns in our state. Read advocacy letters sent by director Jim Speirs.
• If you will be attending Arts Advocacy Day, ask them if you can briefly meet with them at the Capitol. Find your legislators committee schedule and meet them as they come out of committee.

Don’t know your legislators or how to contact them? Follow this link and search by city, county or district. Let them know you’ll be at the Capitol to share your love of the arts.