
Arts Advocacy Day 2026:
Over 450 Advocates & 125 Legislative Meetings
Watch Our Advocacy Day Recap!
Thank you, Minnesota's arts advocates!
Whether you were able to join us for Arts Advocacy Day or were cheering us on from afar, I want you to know just how impactful the day was for the arts across our state.
More than 450 advocates from every corner of Minnesota gathered at the Capitol in a powerful show of support. Together, we held 125 meetings with legislators, sharing stories, data, and real examples of how the arts strengthen communities, fuel local economies, and connect Minnesotans. And when you couldn't make it, you helped deliver over 150 messages to local legislators and state leaders.

Your presence mattered. Legislators saw firsthand the strength of Minnesota’s arts community and the vital role the arts play in the life of our state.
The day was elevated even further by the artists who helped bring the heart of our work into the Capitol. Bao Phi, Ifrah Mansour, Kelly Schamberger, Heart of the Beast, and the Minnesota Opera reminded everyone why the arts matter so deeply in Minnesota. We were also honored to hear from arts leaders Sue Gens (Minnesota State Arts Board, Executive Director) and Anna Pollock (Regional Arts Council President / Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council, Executive Director), whose leadership continues to strengthen Minnesota’s arts community.

Because of this collective effort, lawmakers heard directly from the people who make and support the arts in their districts. The message was clear: the arts are essential to Minnesota’s vitality, infrastructure, and future.
If you weren’t able to attend but would still like to support this work, consider becoming a member of MCA or "Chip In" to help offset the costs of Advocacy Day. Your support makes efforts like this possible.
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Together, we are making a difference.
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