My friend Bill Aguado says it all: Cultural equity While Joan K. Davidsons Feb. 10 op-ed (Arts & de Blasio: goals for lively scene) affirms the mayors tale of two cities campaign theme, the notion of a divided city goes beyond the wealthy and the have-nots. Creativity is not limited to the big institutions; it belongs to every individual and manifests itself in every corner of our great city, especially communities of color. Now is the time to invest in cultural equity; that is, all forms of creative expression already existing in our communities but underfinanced and under-recognized. We are aware of the great artists who emerged from communities of color without support systems. But how many could-haves did not because of the lack of resources? Too many to count. A subclass of 1,200 arts nonprofits has limited access to foundations and corporations. How many have budgets for adequate staffing, benefits and facilities? These are the 99-percenters who carry forth our legacies, give voices to our communities and artistically interpret our lives. Cultural equity in a city as culturally diverse as ours seems to be a forgotten concept. Ironically, there isnt a 1-percenter who isnt an advocate for multiculturalism, as they define it. Its time for a new voice that resonates with equity and support of our diverse communities. Ms. Davidsons recommendations have been made in some form or another over the years. What has been woefully lacking has been their application throughout the city. Equity and access need to be in the forefront. Bill Aguado The writer is a former executive director of the Bronx Council on the Arts. A version of this article appears in the April 14, 2014, print issue of Crains New York Business
Posted on: Thu, 17 Apr 2014 00:20:14 +0000
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