Can I Advocate?
Yes, though there are some restrictions. It is important that you understand these from the start.
What non-profits should know
A 2009 law made substantial changes to the Commonwealth's rules
regarding ethics and lobbying. Nonprofit organizations should familiarize
themselves with the new law, as it affects the way the sector can
advocate on Beacon Hill. Common
Cause Massachusetts and the Office
of Secretary of State William Galvin have each summarized the
changes made by this law and its impact on the advocacy community.
What local cultural councils should know
Local cultural councils have the same rights as non-profits as outlined above.
What private citizens should know
As a private citizen - separate from your non-profit - you have all the rights provided by the Constitution to petition, advocate and communicate with your government. As a private citizen, you can contribute to campaigns and make public statements separate from your organization.
We must become stronger advocates to keep the creative sector vital. Every cultural organization must make advocacy part of its daily mission within the limits outlined above. Speak up on cultural funding; support the issues that support your organization. The arts, sciences, and humanities make valuable and essential contributions to our state and provide a clear return on the investment of public dollars. But, the people of Massachusetts and its legislators will never know that unless we tell our stories in effective advocacy.
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| © Massachusetts Cultural Council 2013 |
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