We want to express our concern as we learn more about the effects of COVID-19 coronavirus and its impacts on Oregon’s cultural sector, following Governor Kate Brown’s order to cancel or postpone gatherings of 250 or more in Oregon for the next four weeks.
We’d like to take a moment to collect quick information about impacts on your organizations—both economic and also unexpected and/or projected impacts. We will use this information as we pursue conversations with Governor Kate Brown to ensure she includes the cultural sector in her work to help Oregon entities suffering from economic loss due to COVID-19.
Any information you have will be helpful as we learn how to operate and best manage this situation. The health and safety of Oregonians are paramount and we encourage you to support the Coalition and others in the cultural sector as we move forward. Join us today.
Please send information you have to info@oregonculture.org by the end of the day on Monday, March 16th. We urge you to reach out as soon as possible.
Statement from the Cultural Advocacy Coalition’s Board of Directors President, Dr. Nancy Golden
“As the chair of the Cultural Advocacy Coalition, I am working with Coalition staff to ensure we do everything possible to minimize the impact of the coronavirus on the cultural sector. We will continue surveying members and collecting data on the impacts as performances are cancelled and community members are selecting to stay home. We are working with the Governor’s office to ensure the cultural sector is included in any of the aid packages that emerge to help Oregon entities suffering economic loss from the impact of COVID-19. In addition, we are in contact with key organizations that are directing support to nonprofits impacted by the outbreak.
We know the power that the arts, culture, heritage, and humanities play in making Oregon a great state, in being the medium of human communication and understanding, and in growing our economy. Please know we are doing all we can to protect us at these vulnerable times
It is my greatest hope that we are able to resume our normal activities soon and, in the meantime, we wish all of you good health.” – Dr. Nancy Golden, Board of Directors President, Cultural Advocacy Coalition