Advocating Post Election: What You Need to Know Now – APAP|NYC 2025 

The APAP|NYC 2025 conference hosted a significant panel titled “Advocating Post Election: What You Need to Know Now.” This timely conversation, recorded on January 11, 2025, focused on the current political landscape and the evolving strategies for advocacy in the arts sector following the 2024 U.S. elections. It provided attendees with insights on navigating the shifting political environment and emphasized how advocacy can influence policies related to the performing arts, both at the federal and state levels. APAP is pleased to share the content of this important conversation through the article below and the panel’s video recording, continuing its mission to equip the arts community with the necessary tools to engage in meaningful advocacy for the arts.

The panel, moderated by Heather Noonan, Vice President for Advocacy for the League of American Orchestras, brought together a diverse group of arts advocates and experts, including Christopher Fischer, Matthew Covey, Nathaniel Marro, Claire Rice, and Stephen Parker. The discussion centered on actionable strategies for building effective relationships with policymakers, managing shifting policy priorities, and understanding the broader impact of advocacy.

The arts sector is constantly adapting to the changing political winds, and panelists acknowledged the increasing need for proactive engagement at all levels of government. As advocacy becomes more complex and urgent in response to national and international changes, the panelists stressed the importance of aligning the arts with broader community needs, showcasing the impact of the arts in fostering cultural and social well-being.

One key takeaway from the session was the growing significance of local and state-level advocacy. While Washington D.C. often garners attention for its high-profile debates and legislative decisions, panelists emphasized that much of the real progress for arts organizations is happening at the state and local levels. Chris Fischer, founder of Spinnaker Government Relations, provided a striking visual analogy to explain the scale of federal spending, pointing out that only a tiny fraction of the U.S. federal budget supports discretionary spending for agencies like the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), highlighting the need for targeted advocacy at all levels of government.

Local advocacy efforts, according to Claire Rice, Executive Director of Arts Alliance Illinois, can be even more impactful as they offer the opportunity for arts leaders to connect with policymakers in a more immediate and personal manner. Through building strong relationships with local legislators, arts advocates can ensure that the value of the arts is recognized in their communities, encouraging funding and policy decisions that directly benefit local institutions.

A major theme of the session was the importance of cultivating relationships with policymakers, particularly in times of political uncertainty. Panelists discussed the tools available to arts advocates and shared strategies for framing the case for the arts in ways that resonate with elected officials. Understanding the value of arts organizations to their communities—not just in cultural terms but also in economic and social terms—is critical in building lasting relationships. Personal stories, direct engagement, and consistent communication with policymakers are all essential components of a successful advocacy strategy.

The panel also highlighted the need for bipartisan support for the arts. The discussion emphasized that the arts are not a partisan issue and that advocates must engage with policymakers across the political spectrum. By demonstrating how the arts benefit their communities, advocates can build cross-party support that strengthens the case for continued federal, state, and local funding for the arts.

While the political landscape may be volatile, Stephen Parker, Executive Director of the National Independent Venue Association, emphasized the value of collaboration and unity in arts advocacy. By joining forces with other advocacy groups, arts organizations can present a united front, increasing their influence and effectiveness when pushing for favorable policy changes.

The use of data was another crucial point discussed in the panel. Matthew Covey, Executive Director of Tamizdat and an expert in international arts mobility, stressed the importance of data collection in arts advocacy. By gathering specific examples of how policy issues impact the arts, advocates can present compelling cases that resonate with policymakers. Whether it’s data on the economic impact of the arts, the challenges artists face in obtaining visas, or the impact of ticketing fraud on live performance venues, solid data is a powerful tool for changing minds and shaping policy.

A key component of the discussion was the role of artists themselves in advocacy efforts. Panelists agreed that artists are often the most effective messengers in advocating for the arts. When artists share their personal experiences and the challenges they face in their careers, it humanizes the issues and helps policymakers understand the real-world impact of policy decisions. Whether it’s an artist struggling with visa delays or a venue owner facing the effects of ticket fraud, these stories provide a powerful call to action for those in power to address the issues affecting the arts community.

As the panel wrapped up, speakers reminded attendees that advocacy is a long-term commitment. While the political landscape may be challenging, the arts community must continue to push for policies that recognize and support the sector’s role in society. Nathaniel Marro, Executive Director of the National Independent Talent Organization, highlighted the importance of collective action and how small, consistent efforts can lead to meaningful change.

The session concluded with a reminder to stay vigilant and proactive in the advocacy process. APAP will continue to provide resources and support to help arts organizations navigate the complexities of advocacy in the post-election landscape, ensuring that the arts continue to thrive in an ever-changing political environment.