California Arts Council: Proposed Changes

The Statewide and Regional Networks grant program is one of few that support arts service organizations serving as backbones in our arts and cultural ecosystem to build more unity, capacity, and collective impact.

The CAC Programs Policy Committee has proposed an end to this program, along with several other changes that would destabilize the field and promote zero sum thinking.

SHARE YOUR VOICE

Submit written comment ahead of the CAC’s discussion on November 17th, or tune in at 10AM PST to share verbal public comment in opposition to these changes. You can also sign this petition.

November 17th Agenda

Suggested Talking Points:

• We recognize and support the CAC’s intention to find ways to more equitably fund arts and culture and address the historic marginalization of communities of color. However, the assumptions underlying these proposals do not fully reflect the lived experience of folks on the ground, nor do they address the root causes of inequity. 
• We are grateful that the CAC is no longer considering the termination of the SRN program as it would create a significant void in funding for arts service organizations, hindering their ability to provide crucial support to California-based artists. 
• In some cases, SRNs are fiscal sponsors that enable small unincorporated organizations to access critical state funding. 
• Still, concerns remain regarding the change in requirements. We need more clarity on what constitutes a “arts producing” organization. How will SRNs gather the required data? Will support from the CAC be provided? Can the data gathering process be contracted out to a research firm? 
• The constant changes made by CAC to its programs are damaging to the field and detailed implementation plans are important to build and sustain public support. 
• Conduct a more comprehensive review of these proposals that considers the potential impact on the arts ecosystem.
• Conduct adequate data analysis and provide time for grantees to plan and adjust when significant changes are proposed. 
• Work in partnership with and unite the arts ecosystem to solve the structural problems that impact the agency and the field, including its historic undercapitalization. 

A Statement from Ricky Abilez, Director of Policy & Advocacy

We want to extend heartfelt congratulations to the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) on successfully reaching historic agreements with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). 

These landmark deals not only signify a triumph for WGA and SAG-AFTRA members, but also underscore the importance of solidarity in achieving meaningful change. By standing united, writers and performers have demonstrated their commitment to securing equitable compensation, improved working conditions, Minimum Basic Agreement (MBA) increases, pension caps, and wraparound support like increased health contributions.

As we commend the resolve shown in these negotiations, it’s crucial to also recognize the evolving landscape of technology—including artificial intelligence—which poses both opportunities and challenges. It is more important than ever for all of us to champion the rights and contributions of creative human professionals while navigating the intersection of AI and storytelling.

The outcome of these negotiations serves as inspiration for future movements. It highlights the transformative power of collective bargaining and emphasizes the significance of fostering a collaborative environment that values the work of every individual in the arts, culture, and entertainment ecosystem.

Onward,

Arts for LA

Read more about the SAG-AFTRA deal here.

Read more about the WGA deal here.

California Arts Council: Proposed Changes

The Statewide and Regional Networks grant program is one of few that support arts service organizations serving as backbones in our arts and cultural ecosystem to build more unity, capacity, and collective impact.

The CAC Programs Policy Committee has proposed an end to this program, along with several other changes that would destabilize the field and promote zero sum thinking.

SHARE YOUR VOICE

Submit written comment ahead of the CAC’s discussion on November 17th, or tune in at 10AM PST to share verbal public comment in opposition to these changes. You can also sign this petition, which advocates for $20 million in additional funding,

November 17th Agenda

Suggested Talking Points:

• We recognize and support the CAC’s intention to find ways to more equitably fund arts and culture and address the historic marginalization of communities of color. However, the assumptions underlying these proposals do not fully reflect the lived experience of folks on the ground, nor do they address the root causes of inequity. 
• Terminating the SRN program would create a significant void in funding for arts service organizations, hindering their ability to provide crucial support to California-based artists. It would also negatively impact organizations led by people of color and organizations that rely on SRN grants to fund their racial and cultural equity work.
• In some cases, SRNs are even fiscal sponsors that enable small unincorporated organizations to access critical state funding.
• The constant changes made by CAC to its programs are damaging to the field.
• Oppose the recommendations put forth by the Policy Programs Committee. 
• Conduct a more comprehensive review of these proposals that considers the potential impact on the arts ecosystem.
• Conduct adequate data analysis and provide time for grantees to plan and adjust when significant changes are proposed. 
• Work in partnership with and unite the arts ecosystem to solve the structural problems that impact the agency and the field, including its historic undercapitalization. 

MOTION FOR THE ARTS

Supervisor Kathryn Barger has introduced an important motion honoring The County Department of Arts and Culture and uplifting the impact of the arts on the economy and the general well being of Angelenos across the County. It will be on the next Board of Supervisors agenda: October 3, 2023 as Item #13.

The motion states “As the Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture, with the Arts Commission, celebrates its 75th anniversary, and the Arts Education Collective celebrates its 20th anniversary, we’re reminded of the longstanding role of the arts in our neighborhoods.”

The motion also:

• Instructs the CEO to work with County departments to promote arts and culture events, educational materials, and resources, including content for social media.
• Establishes a social media campaign to build public will and knowledge around the arts.
• Instructs the Department of Arts and Culture to create a virtual map of arts programs in the County.
• Requests cross departmental collaboration to identify potential opportunities for grant support, arts education, internships, and pathways.

SHARE YOUR VOICE

Submit Written Comment Here in Support of Item 13

Suggested Talking Points:

• LA ranks #1 in the nation for arts providers per capita but #259 in government funding allocation.
• With nonprofit performing arts organizations shuttering, canceling programming, and laying off staff, it is more vital than ever to uplift and invest in the arts and culture sector.
• In a 2023 report by CVL Economics on California’s live performing arts sector, state and local governments lost nearly $1 billion in tax revenue due to pandemic impacts on the performing arts in 2021 alone, and if current trends continue, state and local governments could see a combined $4.1 billion loss in tax revenue over a four-year period.
• In July, the Department of Arts and Culture made a historic investment of $31 million in arts funding to nonprofits, $26 million of which was through the American Rescue Plan Act, the largest public sector arts grant program in the history of the region. Though this is a major step forward, we must sustain this support.
• The arts are so much more than mere entertainment and play a pivotal role in society: they serve as a reflection of our culture and history. They promote social cohesion and bring people from diverse backgrounds together, encouraging dialogue, and bridging gaps in understanding.
• Active participation in the arts, whether through creation or appreciation, enhances cognitive abilities, creativity, and critical thinking skills. This not only enriches individuals but also contributes to a more innovative and civically engaged society.
• I encourage your unanimous support of this motion and urge you to increase funding for programs like the OGP at The Department of Arts and Culture.