Dear Library Friend,
As you know, Rhode Island’s Arts & Culture industry is still recovering from the impacts of COVID-19. Other states have utilized federal recovery funds to support their arts sectors, and now we need Rhode Island to follow suit.
We invite you to join us at the State House on Tuesday, May 28, to urge the General Assembly to pass H8098/S2985, the RI Creative Futures Fund.
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Event Details:
Arts Advocacy Day Schedule - May 28
- 2:30 – 3:00 PM: Arrive at the State House and pass through security. Proceed to the “Bell Room” (South side of the Rotunda – 1st floor). Confirm your State Rep and Senator, and pick up buttons/signs/one sheets.
- 3:00 – 3:20 PM: Brief Speaking Program/Rally
- 3:30 – 3:50 PM: Speak Directly with Senators and Reps on the Floor of the House and Senate
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Parking:
- Several state parking lots around the One Capitol Hill/Department of Health Campus will be open to the public after 3:30 PM.
- Metered spaces are available on the highway access road, State St., and Francis St.
- The Providence Place Mall is also within walking distance.
Where to go? (See map at the bottom of this email)
Enter on the Smith St. side and pass through State Police security. We expect a large turnout, so please allow extra time for security screening. Note: No musical instruments are allowed in the building. After security, proceed straight up the grand staircase to the center landing. Walk across the landing and down the stairs on the opposite side to the Bell Room (a space on the first floor that opens to the State House Lawn). We will gather here for a short speaking program.
What to expect?
Following a short speaking program in the Bell Room, we will head to the Senate (decorated in green) and House (decorated in red) Chambers located on the second floor. Until the session starts (indicated by a loud bell), we can move in and out of the chambers. We’ll ask you to introduce yourself to your state senators and representatives and help us as we advocate for arts and culture in your districts. Be prepared to be assertive to get their attention among other lobbyists.
After sessions begin, proceed to the House or Senate Gallery on the third floor. The public can sit here. We will have a resolution supporting Arts Advocacy Day, and your support through applause or other expressions of appreciation is welcome when it is read aloud on the floor. Your presence and voice are crucial to securing the support for our arts community across the state. Together, our collective action can make a significant impact.
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What if I can’t make it?
If you’re unable to join us in person, you can still make a difference! Visit RIArtsFund.org to write to your representatives today and advocate for the passage of H8098/S2985. Every letter, email, or phone call made before, on, or after our Advocacy Day, will demonstrate to our legislatures that Arts & Culture are a priority to residents of RI.
Take Action Now:
Go to RIArtsFund.org
Thank you in advance for supporting your arts and culture community in a time of need.
Brought to you by RI Coalition for the Arts
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