Our state capital hosted its annual Arts Day February 25, 2010, organized by the Alliance of New York State Arts Organizations. In attendance were Maarten Jacobs, director of Near West Side Initiative, and Steven Kern, executive director of Everson Museum of Art. Their focus was to remind state legislators of the economic and cultural impact of the arts and to ask them to maintain the funding levels for the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA).

With Governor Paterson’s proposed 2010-2011 budget, funding for the NYSCA would be cut by as much as 15 %. This would reverse the funding back to 1985 levels.

Both Kern and Jacobs spoke to the state legislators and assemblymen on the importance of continuing funding for the arts. Mr. Kern said, “A decrease in funding would mean the elimination of programs and jobs, every dollar from NYSCA preserves jobs.” Mr. Jacobs added, “Arts are more than a tool to beautify neighborhoods.” He also talked about the relocation of King& King Architects into the Near West Side and how several small businesses have moved into the Near West Side neighborhood.

As Jacobs reminded the legislators, people need to feel that they are a part of something. The arts can be that draw that brings a community together and that draws new citizens into the community.

The support for funding the arts did not stop with our local officials. Senator Jose M. Serrano is a strong advocate for continuing the funding. He expressed his support by saying “The state has not done the right thing for the arts even in good economic times.” He also said,” there will always be an excuse not to fund the arts, it is important we keep this fight going”.

State Assemblyman Steve Englebright added “The way back economically is for people to feel good about living in New York State.” Local artists and educators are scheduled to meet with State Senator John DeFrancisco and Assembly members Bill Magnarelli and Joan Christensen. As stated by Stephen Butler, executive director of the Cultural Resources Council, “It’s the one time we come together. The legislature in total can see how many people are invested in the arts.”

Funding for the arts is very important. But what is more important, what folks are looking for, is a feeling of belonging and a sense of pride in their surroundings. Once people have this sense of belonging they will feel at peace and encourage others to join them. This is what the arts can do and will continue to do in the future.