Museum leaders founded CAM in 1979 to advocate for California's museum field. This mission continues today through our active advocacy program. In partnership with our Government Relations Committee we monitor legislation, keep our members and constituents informed, and support strategic initiatives that benefit the museum field. CAM also supports appropriations in the State budget that help California museums serve their communities.
Together we take positions on key bills, attend hearings, and meet with elected officials to voice our support or opposition. We also periodically issue policy statements to California legislators, informing them about the vital role museums play in California communities
For more than two decades, CAM has organized advocacy events and programs. We tailor the events to the year’s specific needs and circumstances and partner with other organizations on key efforts. The Government Relations Committee and CAM staff lead the advocacy efforts and work diligently to meet the different needs of the museum community each year.
Interested in learning more about our advocacy work? Download our Guiding Principles for Advocacy and Legislative Involvement Framework.
Advocacy in Action
CAM takes action in a number of different ways. Advocacy Days, Action Hours and the work of the Government Relations Committee keep CAM on the forefront of museum advocacy in California.
Advocacy Days
CAM currently partners with California for the Arts for Arts Advocacy Day. This integral partnership brings museums together with artists and other cultural organizations to highlight the important economic and cultural benefits we bring to the state of California. In the past, CAM has hosted in person and virtual advocacy days and may restart those again sometime in the future.
Action Hours
CAM hosts Action Hours to respond quickly to time sensitive issues affecting the museum field. These action hours are guided and interactive advocacy steps (phone calls, emails, and social media posts) with a common goal. These are critically important in today’s political climate.
Government Relations Committee
CAM’s Government Relations Committee monitors legislation and appropriations, takes positions on bills, attends hearings and meets with elected officials. This committee of passionate museum professionals works on behalf of all California museums.