Grassroots Advocacy
The most effective advocate for preservation is an informed one. Stay current not only with policy advancements that strengthen our movement but also with the challenges that historic and cultural resources face. Familiarize yourself with best practices for persuasive advocacy and be the first to explore new tools that amplify the impact of your efforts. With these resources, you'll develop a keen ability to advocate effectively and at the right moment.
Preservationists, like any group united by a common cause, have both the right and the responsibility to make sure their elected officials understand that the laws they pass have significant consequences—both positive and negative—on our historic preservation objectives. After all, who understands better than we do how historic tax credits can revitalize our downtowns? Who is more qualified to demonstrate the full impact of the Historic Preservation Fund in safeguarding our treasured heritage?
You have the power to be a strong advocate for heritage resources in your community—a role preservationists fulfill daily through their efforts to protect historic sites. The key to success is building positive, long-term relationships with your legislators, creating a solid foundation for taking targeted action when the need or opportunity arises.
Making Your Voice Heard
As preservationists we know how important it is to advocate for the power of preservation at the federal, state, and local levels. However, sometimes we need a reminder of what tools we have access to both as nonprofits and as individuals who care about our communities and our country. Through short-video, articles, and toolkits these materials will provide valuable tips and guidance for those who are just starting to engage with elected officials and a refresher for seasoned advocates across the United States.
Sign up for our training interest list to be the first to hear about these valuable resources as they come online.
Nonprofit Lobbying and Avoiding Political Campaign Intervention
5 Tips for Nonprofit Lobbying and Avoiding Political Campaign Intervention
One of the first things that we need to know prior to lobbying and advocacy of any kind are the legal rules around these practices.
Just Do It! Grassroots Advocacy for Preservation
Grassroots advocacy is changing the face of American politics and the direction of policy. Learn how stories, documentation, and outreach can be turned into action plans for preservation. Hear grassroots leaders share how they used unconventional tools and government funding to protect valuable community resources. Be inspired by their experiences to jump into action to advocate for your community.
Resources
- Review our Ten Tips for Effective Advocacy to help demystify the process of talking to elected officials and other decisionmakers about historic preservation. These tips will help guide and focus your advocacy strategy.
- Take action now! Visit our Action Center for timely ways to use your voice to contact your specific elected officials about pressing issues in preservation policy.
- To receive regular updates from the National Trust’s government relations team, sign up for the Advocacy Newsletter. This monthly newsletter details upcoming, recent, and ongoing work happening at the federal, state, and local levels shaping historic preservation policy across the country.
Stay connected with us via email. Sign up today.
This May, for Preservation Month, we’re celebrating the power of place—and the countless ways, big and small, that preservation creates. Preservation Month is our chance to show why our work matters!
Celebrate!