Good jobs, more livable communities and better schools are achievable by investing in the arts, sciences and humanities. Through the collective power of the state's cultural community we can educate elected officials about the role that cultural organizations, individual artists and local cultural councils play in economic development, education, workforce development and creation of healthier communities. The Western Mass Arts Alliance supports the Massachusetts Advocates for the Arts, Sciences and Humanities' efforts to advocate for the arts in Massachusetts.
Many of our region's cultural organizations, artists and art educators are reliant upon funding from local, state and federal sources, as well as private donations to support their continued efforts to enrich our community with the arts. Every one of us can help to serve as advocates for these vital efforts. Speaking to legislators and municipal officials, launching letter-writing campaigns to local papers, running for public office, and generally speaking out as a voice of support for those who bring the arts to our communities have all proven to be extremely effective advocacy tools. There are a myriad of other ways to be an arts advocate, and the links below should offer some helpful suggestions about how you can become a strong advocate for the arts in western Massachusetts. With relatively little individual effort, we can make a huge impact on our community. We hope you will join in!
While most arts advocates agree that personal anecdotes are the most powerful advocacy tool, your advocacy efforts will be bolstered by research and information that supports your personal experiences. Following are some key regional and national sources of information that support the important role of the arts in education and society.
