I joined a bus load of Orlando Arts advocated on a trip to Tallahassee to convince legislators to stop cutting funding for the arts. The top floor of the capitol complex had windows overlooking the Tallahassee skyline in all directions. Groups of advocates went office to office to meet with legislators. Around lunch time there was a meeting on the top floor to discuss how arts funds might be allocated in the following year.
In the West wing, the Uke Jammers set up on folding chairs and began to perform. It was a lively informal jam session meant to show that arts are still alive in Florida. It was a visual reminder that arts, arts education, and culture
are part of the solution and matter to Floridians and tourists. It was also a toe tapping good time.
There is going to be an Arts and Culture Day in Tallahassee on January 24, 2018. State appropriation investments were fully restored in 2014-2015 for all Division of Cultural Affairs (DCA) grants; however, Florida’s
investment in the DCA grants’ programs have been reduced over the
last three years as the demand for them has increased. Art Advocates must work collaboratively and strategically to restore state-appropriation investments needed to fund matching grants. They also must demonstrate that these are wise state investments with
substantial economic and social impact throughout the region and
state. It is an opportunity for you to go the state Capitol to unite with arts,
arts education, and culture advocates from throughout Florida to step up and share our unified voices in Tallahassee with our legislators and their staff. It is a fascinating process and your voice could make a difference.