· Restore the budgets of both the BC Arts Council and the arts and cultural community component of the Community Gaming Grants Program to at least the level of 2008/09 to allow the arts community to begin to build upon the legacy of the 2010 Olympics. The 2010 Olympics provide our province with such a wonderful “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” to showcase not only the athletes, but the breadth and depth of arts and cultural activities that make British Columbia such a great place to live, work and visit. Without at least the level of funding provided in 2008/09 it will be next to impossible for the arts and cultural community to seize the opportunities presented by the 2010 Olympics.
· Develop and announce a long term strategy to strengthen the support for the arts and cultural community of British Columbia as the province works it way out of the current fiscal difficulties. The BC150 Cultural Fund has provided a valuable foundation, and we are very grateful for this long term support, even as present rates of return have diminished the current impact of this source. At the same time many private donors have
reduced their support for all not-for-profit organizations, only compounding the financial issues facing most arts organizations. The arts community is looking for a more positive attitude and increased visible support from government.” (Jane Danzo, B.C. Arts Council, Written submission 670)
At the board meeting today (October 30), Broughton told her fellow regional district directors that the arts have been proven to be an effective tool for steering people, particularly youth, away from anti-social behaviour.
Broughton also pointed out that children who are exposed to arts have shown “less inclination” to engage in “scurrilous activity” as adults.
Amir Ali Alibhai, executive director of the Alliance for Arts and Culture, said he applauds the council’s augmented advocacy but he questions just how far the organization can go, given its financial reliance on the government.
“It’s welcome for the B.C. Arts Council to take a stronger leadership role in advocacy,” Alibhai told the Straight by phone. “I’d be concerned that staff would be in an awkward position if they’re criticizing and suggesting different actions than those taken by the government.”
Also see artscutsmemo photo stream
