The arts have always been a cornerstone of community life, providing joy, connection, and inspiration. Since the pandemic, the landscape for arts organizations has shifted drastically. Approximately 25% of arts organizations across Canada have closed their doors, and many more are struggling to remain operational. The reduction in the number of arts groups doesn’t mean increased resources for those that remain. The entire economic structure has changed — ticket revenues, corporate sponsorships, and individual giving have all declined, while operational costs continue to rise. This leaves government funding as a critical lifeline to sustain arts organizations like Coastal Jazz.

Despite these challenges, the demand for the arts has not diminished. In fact, they are more necessary than ever. Free and accessible events like the Vancouver International Jazz Festival are vital to fostering community, supporting local artists, and maintaining cultural traditions, while also driving home the economic benefits of a thriving arts sector.

While the BC municipal election is behind us, we must continue to advocate for government support of the arts. Your assistance can help us ensure that barrier-free access to live music and arts continues to be available to everyone regardless of their financial situation by securing long-term, sustainable government funding through the BC Arts Council and other governmental funding bodies.

How to Support Our Letter Writing Campaign

  1. Find Your MLA’s email address: It should be listed on their government website.
    Click here to search for your local MLA by entering a postal code.
  2. Copy the Letter: Highlight the open letter below, right-click, and select “Copy.”
  3. Open Your Email: Open your preferred email platform and create a new email.
  4. Paste the Letter: Right-click in the email body and select “Paste” to insert the copied letter.
  5. Add Your Details: Replace the placeholders (MLA’s Name), (Your Name) with your personal information.
  6. Send the Email: Enter your MLA’s email address, add a subject line like “Support for Arts Funding, and hit “Send.”

Dear (MLA’s Name),
As a resident of British Columbia and a supporter of the arts, I am writing to express my concern about the current state and future of arts funding in our province.

The COVID-19 pandemic and other economic challenges have had a devastating impact on the arts sector across Canada. Since 2020, approximately 25% of arts organizations have been forced to close, and many others continue to struggle. This loss erases our cultural heritage and hurts our economy. These organizations build community and culture while contributing to our local and national economy. In British Columbia, the end of crucial pandemic era funding has left many arts organizations extremely vulnerable, further risking the long-term sustainability of our sector.

The importance of the arts to our community is clear. A recent survey conducted by the staff at Coastal Jazz showed that:

  • 92% of respondents believe that events like the Vancouver International Jazz Festival make Vancouver a better place to visit, live, or work.
  • 90% agree that Canadian governments at all levels should provide financial support for such events.
  • 92% consider government support for arts organizations essential for cultural development.

A hospice nurse and member of Coastal Jazz’s community shared her story of how she found comfort and a renewed sense of connection at one of Coastal Jazz’s free concerts. She said Jazz Fest helped to alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness during a challenging time. Stories like hers highlights the critical role that barrier-free access to the arts plays in supporting mental health and well-being, particularly during difficult economic times when many in our community rely on these accessible opportunities for themselves and their families.

I hope you will consider committing to securing and increasing funding for the arts across British Columbia, by ensuring that BC Arts Council funding is both grown and committed annually, we can provide the stability needed to maintain and expand programming, support local artists, and preserve our cultural traditions. Without this support, we risk losing the very events that bring us together, that defines Vancouver, that celebrates community.

Thank you for your attention to this critical issue. I look forward to reading your response.
Sincerely,
(Your Name)