Do you ever wish you could have your say in Canada’s level of support for the arts? Do you find yourself wondering if funds will be cut? If programs will be renewed? If your member of parliament (MP) knows how important federal funding is to you and your sector? Now is your chance to speak up and speak out.

As part of the CCF/FCMA’s ongoing advocacy activity, we are encouraging participation in the Canadian Arts Coalition’s (CAC) new project, ‘Arts 308’. A non-partisan movement dedicated to increasing federal support for the arts, the CAC has the tools to help you get involved.

Arts 308 is designed to get artists and culture workers talking with every MP in the 308 ridings across Canada. You can send a message via social media, write an email, or most effectively: meet with your local MP! Your participation brings a real, live face to the arts sector, making a personal connection to your MP’s constituency; a connection that can have a real impact when it comes time to vote on budgets and bills at Parliament Hill.

Not sure how to start? Visit the CAC’s website for more information on how to set a meeting, how to connect through social media, and more. Every effort counts towards a more informed representative parliament, no matter what political party your local MP represents.

The CCF/FCMA has information that can help, too. Since 2011 we’ve produced pre-budget recommendations to inform the federal government about the needs of the sector. These documents contain important talking points and backup information that you can use when meeting with your MP.

We believe the voice of the Craft sector must be heard by the federal government, and that you have the power to make a difference. Together, we can speak up and speak out on behalf of the arts!