Ohio Citizens for the Arts Foundation, as part of Ohio’s Annual Arts Day, brings High School Students from around the State to lobby their Representative(s) in the legislature on May 15th. The Student Advocacy Program allows young people (and future voters) to engage elected officials about the need for and the value of arts and arts education! The students are each brought to Columbus having first received training in public speaking from Mr. David Leist, a retired theatre educator who will help them hone their messaging and confidence as they tell why learning about art impacts their lives and how the arts create jobs and stimulate economic activity. Art in schools stimulates creative and critical thinking. Advocacy (and finding your voice) is a life-long tool and encourages young people to be part of the conversation. This can translate into action.
As part of this program, the legislators are also invited to visit the high school of the Student Advocate to discuss their roles and to answer tough questions students have about government in their lives and whether or not, for instance, legislators support arts and arts education funding.
(Students pictured with Seanator Tavares, Lobby Day 2012)
