Advocacy Update: Strengthening Our Industry Through Grassroots Advocacy and Financial Giving

By Lorenzo Cruz

Members of the Wisconsin Bankers Association are at a critical point in our industry. Amid the backdrop of the fall elections, the financial landscape is rapidly changing with new regulations, technological advancements, and economic challenges that impact our day-to day operations. Now more than ever, it is crucial that bankers not only stay informed, but also actively participate in the shaping of our industry’s future.

The Power of Grassroots Advocacy
Grassroots is the cornerstone of our efforts to influence legislation and regulatory decisions that affect our industry. By engaging with policymakers at all levels of government, we can ensure that our voices are heard, and that the unique viewpoints of our industry are considered.

But advocacy is not just about lobbying or talking with elected officials. It is about building relationships and educating them on the real-world effects of their decisions. When we work together as a community to advocate for reasonable regulation and policies that promote growth, we empower ourselves to create a stronger, more resilient financial sector.

Why Your Involvement Matters
Each one of us has a role to play in this process. Whether you are managing a small community bank or leading a large institution, your perspectives and experiences are invaluable. Policymakers need to hear from those who are on the front lines, collaborating directly with customers and understanding the complexity of financial services.

Your involvement in grassroots advocacy can take many forms:
• Contacting your elected officials is one way. Share your experiences and concerns via email or a phone call and educate them on the impact of proposed legislation on business and customers.
• A second way is to attend public hearings. Show up where decisions are being determined and express your opinions by providing testimony or registering a position.
• Participating in Capitol Days and federal delegation trips is another approach. Join bankers in organized visits to policymakers to collectively advocate for the legislative priorities that matter most to our industry.

Supporting WBA’s Fundraising
In addition to your personal engagement, financial donations to WBA’s Political Action Committee (PAC) and conduit account are vital. These funds allow our association to support candidates who understand and prioritize the banking industry’s concerns. By combining our resources, we can ensure that our industry’s voice is heard in the hallways of the capitol.

Why your contribution matters:
• It amplifies our influence. Financial contributions enable us to support lawmakers who align with our industry’s goals, ensuring they have the resources to campaign effectively.
• It protects our interests. By contributing to PACs and conduit accounts, you help safeguard our industry from potentially damaging legislation.
• It promotes informed decision making. With strong financial support, we can continue to provide valuable information to policymakers, helping them make decisions based on solid data and industry expertise.

A Call to Action
We urge every WBA member to get more involved in overall grassroots advocacy (BIGG) and financial giving at the individual level (Leadership Circle or Silver Triangle) and at the bank level (Gold Triangle). Act now to help us meet our 2024 fundraising goal of $300,000 by contributing securely online via credit card at wisbank.com/advocacy or mailing a check payable to Wisbankpac or to Alliance of Bankers for Wisconsin to WBA.

Whether it is donating financially, reaching out to a legislator, or participating in an advocacy event, every effort counts. Together, we can ensure that the banking industry remains a vital, vibrant part of our economy. Your voice, your engagement, and your contributions make all the difference. Let us commit to being proactive advocates for our industry, today and in the future.

Thank you for your continued commitment to the success of our association and the banking industry.