Advocacy & the Arts: Strengthening Hawai‘i’s Creative Voice

Advocacy & the Arts is a four-part learning series hosted by Hawai‘i Arts Alliance. The series explores how storytelling, civic engagement, and strategic advocacy can help sustain and expand support for the arts across the islands.

Each session was designed to build knowledge and confidence among artists, educators, and community leaders who want to influence policy and make a lasting impact:

Telling Our Story – Communicating the value of the arts

Navigating the State Legislative Process – Understanding how a bill becomes law

Changing the Narrative – Elevating stories that shape public perception

Turning Insight Into Impact – Taking action for real change

Mahalo to our facilitator Lisa Maruyama and guest speakers for their time, wisdom, and aloha—and to everyone who joined us in making advocacy a creative act of community care.

Part 1: Mapping out the Strategy for Individuals and Organizations

Part 2: Navigating the State Legislative Process

Part 3: Changing the Narrative

Part 4: Turning Insight into Impact