WASHINGTON, D.C.: On June 23, as part of TCG’s national conference, 225 participants made 59 Hill visits with their elected officials. Representing a total of 24 states, these theatre advocates were able to tell stories of their own theatres and to urge support on federal issues that impact the field: the National Endowment for the Arts, arts education, and cultural exchange funding; improving the visa process for artists from abroad; protecting tax incentives for charitable giving; and wireless microphones used in theatre.

The day began with a kick-off at the Folger Theatre, with remarks by Congresswoman Louise Slaughter (D-NY), long-time cochair of the Congressional Arts Caucus; Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), founder and cochair of the Congressional STEAM Caucus; and Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D-MN), who serves as an ex-officio member of the National Council on the Arts. These three extraordinary women, all three devoted supporters of the arts, made powerful and moving remarks.

They’re also proof that arts advocacy can truly be effective. These 225 theatre conferencegoers were delighted to find their elected officials and staff so willing to listen and to hear their stories, and to agree that advocacy matters. To become an advocate yourself, visit the Performing Arts Alliance website and send a message to your elected officials. It is quick and easy, and your voice makes a difference.