Sharing our stories, impact through global advocacy

On July 23, EIC hosted the panel discussion, "Amplifying our voices through advocacy: How the global events industry is taking action." Across the events ecosystem, various coalitions, associations and initiatives are working diligently to ensure that our voices are amplified and that our stories are shared by helping government officials understand the true impact events have on the global economy and job creation. At the local level, we need to ensure that key decision makers fully understand the scope and impact that our events have in each community.

Elliott Ferguson, president and CEO, Destination DC and National Chair, U.S. Travel Association, led the discussion with panellists from AEO, ASAE, HIMSS, IAEE, IAVM, Go LIVE Together, SISO and UFI. These global perspectives highlighted how we each have a role in ensuring that those outside of our industry understand this impact. With the tools, resources and guidance of the various advocacy efforts underway, we can help amplify our voices.

After the webinar, EIC shared a summary of advocacy resources. Visit EIC’s Advocacy Page for links to coalitions and organisations.

Also in July, EIC and Go LIVE Together announced the launch of a grassroots advocacy campaign to drive congressional backing for U.S. legislation vital to the recovery of business events from the impacts of COVID-19.

The campaign engages members of the business events community and provides turnkey tools to assist them with contacting their elected officials to ask for support of a temporary tax credit proposed by Go LIVE Together. The tax credit will work to defray the costs of participation in business events, especially for the 1.4 million small businesses that rely on this critical sales and marketing channel. It is under consideration for inclusion in the next phase of coronavirus response legislation currently being negotiated by the U.S. Congress, along with the extension and expansion of PPP and other funding necessary to keep the industry afloat.

"Our values are firmly rooted in the common belief that our industry drives economic growth, builds communities, educates and advocates in support of our global economy," said Amy Calvert, CEO, Events Industry Council. "We all have a role to play to share the value of our industry and the way in which live events will contribute to our recovery. By offering our borderless solidarity and participation in these efforts, we honor our commitment to our global workforce of 26 million and to the future of our industry."

More information about the tax credit and Go LIVE Together's other legislative priorities can be found here. Advocates can learn more about Go LIVE Together’s campaign and quickly send emails or social posts to their legislators by visiting https://himss.quorum.us/campaign/goLIVEtogetherLetter/