Building strong support for the arts and arts education is what you do every day.  Yet resources continue to dwindle, as the state economic forecast affirms that fiscal recovery is slow for California.  This means that counties, cities and school districts will continue to grapple with insurmountable budget deficits, short falls and cuts to essential city services.

How then do we make the case for the arts and arts education in these difficult financial times?  Is advocating to not have the arts or arts education singled out a viable strategy?  How do we build, expand and inspire our vast networks to voice their commitment, not just to the arts, but to the future vitality and economic prosperity of our region?  

Unlike years past, we now have strong economic data backing our claim that creativity is a driving force in Los Angeles and Orange Counties.  New reports illustrate the direct connection between the arts and civic engagement, workforce readiness and arts education.

Our collective efforts over the past three years have created a strong presence with policymakers.  We now have the ability to engage in very targeted e-advocacy.  A policy platform vetted by the field has been created to guide us as we work together toward greater support for the arts.  

This month I have more questions than answers.  I want to hear from you on the best way for our field to collectively tackle the challenges facing our sector.  What do you need to take action, to take a stand and actively advocate for the arts and arts education in your community?

You are a valued part of this unprecedented advocacy effort.  Use the comment section below to share you thoughts with your colleagues about how the work you do is part of our region's solution.