In this excellent article by Diana Tamblyn published in “The Loon”, the importance of advocating for cultural heritage during an election campaign is explained. As she notes, “Last year, the London Chamber of Commerce released a report on the role culture can play in the evolution of downtown London. Their argument for the sector is straightforward: a strong cultural sector contributes to economic growth, tourism, community engagement, talent attraction and quality of life.
According to research cited in the Chamber report, arts and culture tourists spent approximately $11.4 billion in Ontario, generating $5.7 billion in direct economic value.”
Ask candidates these questions, as developed in the article. We think these questions can be adapted for provincial and federal elections as well:
What role do you believe arts, culture, and heritage should play in the city’s future growth and quality of life?
What specific policies or investments would you support to strengthen the cultural sector as a driver of economic development, talent attraction, and placemaking?
How would you ensure that municipal cultural investments, programs, and decision-making processes are inclusive and accessible for Indigenous, Black, newcomer, disabled, and other equity-deserving artists and communities?
What role should reconciliation play in the city’s cultural development?
What are your priorities for maintaining, improving, and expanding cultural infrastructure across the city?
What municipal strategies would you champion to further support and advance these outcomes?
Municipal budgets require making choices among various priorities. Where do arts, culture, and heritage fit within your spending priorities and why?
See more here: When a candidate knocks
Download questions to adapt for your use here: