Synergy, the electronic newsletter
information for people who value arts and culture

Feds urged to stabilize funding for the arts
Alliance for Arts and Culture responds to throne speech

"What makes our communities vibrant and creative is the quality of their cultural life. The government will foster cultural institutions and policies that aspire to excellence, reflect a diverse and multicultural society, respond to the new challenges of globalization and the digital economy, and promote diversity of views and cultural expression at home and abroad."
-- The Speech from the Throne, October 5, 2004

The Alliance for Arts and Culture urges the federal government to translate its endorsement of Canadian culture in yesterday’s Speech from the Throne into a renewed commitment for long term, stable funding for the arts in Canada.

By investing in the arts the federal government invests in each of its priority areas and brings social and economic returns to our communities. In British Columbia the arts provide learning experiences for all citizens including our children and first nations communities. It contributes to the health and enjoyment of life for our seniors. It prepares our young people for the future by giving them the freedom to question, the ability to think creatively and the tools to express themselves.

The Federation of Canadian Municipalities has endorsed the renewal of funding to the arts citing the importance of arts and culture to the renewal of cities in Canada. Artists are visionaries who strive for excellence and help us imagine and realize creative cities and communities in a distinctive and spirited Canada.

Having access to Canadian arts and culture is the right of every citizen in this country. Through experiencing the diversity of our people through the arts we all learn to celebrate our differences and feel proud of our distinctly Canadian voice. The arts showcase our diversity to each other and to the rest of world.

Arts funding through the Tomorrow Starts Today program will expire on March 31, 2005. The government must move swiftly to announce a long term funding package to ensure Canadian arts organizations are not destabilized.

Last Updated: Thursday, October 07, 2004