At Lawyers for the Creative Arts (LCA), we are committed to empowering artists and arts organizations in Illinois by providing essential legal and business support. As part of our educational mission, we strive to keep the artistic community informed about policies and legislative activities that may influence their work. Understanding arts policy is crucial for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of funding, governance, and regulations that impact creative professionals. We encourage artists, nonprofit leaders, and arts organizations to stay engaged with both Illinois and national arts policies to advocate effectively for their communities. Below, you’ll find a collection of key resources to help you stay informed and take action. Illinois Arts Policy Resources Stay up to date with local policies and initiatives shaping the arts community in Illinois: Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs – Explore programs, funding opportunities, and cultural initiatives supporting artists and creative organizations in Chicago. Arts Alliance Illinois – A leading statewide advocacy organization working to advance arts-friendly policies and funding. Forefront – Offers policy updates and nonprofit advocacy tools to help organizations navigate executive orders and policy changes. Illinois Arts Council – Provides grants and guidance on arts policy priorities in Illinois. Illinois Humanities – Promotes public humanities programs and policy discussions that impact the cultural sector. National Arts Policy Resources Engage with federal policies and national organizations advocating for the arts sector: Americans for the Arts – A leading national organization tracking legislative and policy developments affecting artists and arts nonprofits. National Council of Nonprofits – Advocates for nonprofit policy issues at the federal level. Council on Foundations – Provides advocacy resources and policy updates for philanthropic organizations. National Endowment for the Arts – The federal agency providing funding, research, and policy guidance for the arts. National Endowment for the Humanities – Supports projects in the humanities, including arts advocacy and policy initiatives. Independent Sector – Research and policy insights on nonprofit advocacy and civic engagement. National Assembly of State Arts Agencies – Advocacy tools and resources for state-level arts agencies and organizations. Understanding Political Activity & Lobbying for Nonprofits As a nonprofit organization, understanding the legal boundaries of political activity and lobbying is essential. To help arts organizations navigate these regulations, we’ve provided an educational video on nonprofit compliance with political activity and lobbying laws. <span data-mce-type="bookmark" style="display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;" class="mce_SELRES_start"></span> This resource will guide you through the do’s and don’ts of political engagement for nonprofits, ensuring you can advocate effectively while maintaining compliance. Take Action & Stay Engaged Advocacy is a powerful tool in protecting and advancing the arts sector. Whether you’re an individual artist, an arts organization leader, or a community advocate, staying informed and engaged with policy changes is key to shaping a thriving creative ecosystem. Stay informed. Get involved. Make your voice heard.
