History Advocacy Day in Wisconsin

History advocates from around the state are invited to join the Society to thank lawmakers for their ongoing support of Wisconsin history and to highlight the critical role that state and local history play in collecting, preserving, and sharing stories. Write a letter, make a call, or schedule a meeting to advocate for history in Wisconsin!

Your participation makes a tremendous impact. History advocates like you create enthusiasm and promote the need to preserve and share our stories from generation to generation. Help us thank our lawmakers for their past support of history and spread awareness of all that our organizations do throughout the entire state and in local communities!

Registration for the 8th Annual History Advocacy Day in Wisconsin is now closed! Please contact Kennedy McCarthy at kennedy.mccarthy@wisconsinhistory.org if you have any questions.

What is Advocacy?

Advocacy confirms with elected officials that support from the state and federal government is a critical part of investing in history and cultural assets. The support allows for the Wisconsin Historical Society to continue its mission and vision across all 72 counties of Wisconsin. The goal of developing and implementing a state and federal advocacy plan is to secure state funding, federally designated spending, and competitive grant opportunities while showcasing the Society's current value proposition with statewide programming and democratizing its vast national collection. Additionally, advocacy will help our decision-makers understand the importance of the museums, local history organizations, and historic sites throughout Wisconsin while endorsing the unique way the Society and affiliates inspire and engage guests throughout Wisconsin and beyond.

Over the last eight years, the Wisconsin Historical Society has hosted History Advocacy Day in the Capitol. Advocates include local affiliates, historic preservationists, Society members, teachers, researchers, Wisconsin Historical Society Press authors, and more from all across Wisconsin. We have approximately 50 advocates attend each year, resulting in meetings with over 80 legislative offices…AND WE ARE JUST GETTING STARTED!

Talking points and training will be provided to advocates by the Wisconsin Historical Society.

2025 Supporting Documents

• 2024 Scorecard (PDF, 117 KB)
• 2024 Legislative Brief 411 (PDF, 4.16 MB)
• How to Be an Advocate (PDF, 298 KB)
• 2025-2027 Operating Budget Talking Points (PDF, 106 KB)
• 2024 Statewide Services Map (PDF, 1.2 MB)
• 2024 Senate District Services Maps (PDF, 3.82 MB)
• 2024 Congressional District Services Maps (PDF, 2.1 MB)

Hear from legislators why it's important they hear from YOU, their constituents!

Cancellation Policy

Due to the nature of scheduling legislative meetings, we require all registered advocates to follow our cancellation policy as stated below:

• If you must cancel: All registered advocates who can no longer attend Advocacy Day must email Kennedy McCarthy at kennedy.mccarthy@wisconsinhistory.org to confirm cancellation.
• Cancelling within 24 hours of Advocacy Day: If cancelling within 24 hours of the event, you must email and call Kennedy at 608-347-6268.

Please only cancel if absolutely necessary due to illness, inclement weather, or family emergencies. Legislators and staff take great care and time from their busy schedules to meet with constituents, and we rely on you to make these appointments impactful.