Editor:
The recent announcement of another round of cuts to the arts in B.C. continues to confound and boggle. It represents nothing less than a frontal assault on art and culture in all local, regional and provincial sectors of B.C. The very implication that arts and culture can be sacrificed during "tough times" is a dangerous psychological social impediment to a future that is more inclusive, compassionate, creative and thoughtful. After projected cuts to the arts of up to 90 per cent by 2011, there was promise of a $10-million fund earmarked in the spring budget for a new "2010 Sports and Arts Legacy Fund." There are now rumblings that a large chunk of the money will not go directly to the arts at all, but to government-sponsored, "Spirit Festivals" to begin next February, aimed at fostering an Olympic legacy.
We are told these cuts to the arts are necessary and once again the debate is framed with the unwinable argument: what's more important: heath care, or the arts? Education or the arts? It will take a groundswell of community voices and support to ensure our communities continue to grow and thrive on a cultural level. Understand that every cultural event that happens on the Coast would not exist without many volunteers who care deeply about providing something special to the residents who live here and those who visit. If people don't get involved, no more festivals and events.
It's time to get out there and speak up.
Steve Wright
Sechelt
