Arts, culture, and humanities now more critical than ever
In our second year of the COVID-19 pandemic, Oregon venues are opening their doors again. Arts, culture, and humanities have never been so needed to inspire and entertain us.
- Record numbers of people are experiencing anxiety and depression, what a leading medical association is calling a “mental health tsunami.”
- Four in five Americans believe the arts are a positive experience in a troubled world.
- Small arts and culture organizations have been the hardest hit by shrinking donations and admission tickets, according to a study by the Urban Institute.
That means what we do at the Cultural Advocacy Coalition of Oregon is more important than ever.
October is National Arts & Humanities Month, a collective recognition of the importance of culture in America. It’s a time for communities to come together to celebrate the power of the arts to change our lives for the better.
The coalition was formed in 1998 by people who lobbied for legislation that created the Oregon Cultural Trust. We are the only statewide advocacy organization lobbying on behalf of arts, culture, history, heritage, and humanities. Here’s a recap of our work in the legislature.
“We urge our state policymakers to prioritize arts, culture, heritage, and the humanities to encourage creativity, contribute to Oregon’s economic recovery, and rebuild our communities devastated by COVID-19,” says Sue Hildick, senior advisor for the coalition. “Investing in Oregon’s cultural life promotes whole person health in a troubled world and boosts our economy.”
Will you join us? Help us support a state where:
- Oregonians can access and engage in arts and culture in their community without barriers
- Students have equitable access to quality arts education
- Arts and culture organizations can provide innovative, world-class programming
- Our thriving arts represent all of the cultures in Oregon
- All people are represented in arts policy, venues, and distribution of resources
Our members are businesses, nonprofits, community leaders, and patrons who represent all regions of the state. We are solely funded through private donations and do not receive public funds.
Every gift we receive, whether from you as an individual supporter or your organization, makes an impact.