January 2, 2023—Happy New Year! From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your continued support of Arts & Culture Connections!

 

I am encouraged by the growing momentum for Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Access that occurred last year in the performing arts and other cultural institutions. I especially applaud the innovative pathways being blazed by organizations such as Black Theatre United (BTU) and The Industry Standard Group (TISG), which are opening doors, creating opportunities, and empowering people to leverage their resources in support of the arts that reflect their stories.

 

I also am inspired by the artists and arts administrators who have continued to forge ahead with new works, expanding the boundaries of creativity without being deterred.

 

Still, we all know that there is much more to do! I urge all of you—artists and arts leaders—to blaze brave, bold new trails in 2023! The arts remain the best bridge for bringing together our divided communities and healing our fractured hearts. Let’s open our doors wide and extend a heartfelt and welcoming invitation to our performances, exhibitions, and our events!

 

What do arts organizations and cultural institutions need most to be successful and relevant in 2023 (in addition to resources)?

 

Passionate advocacy that is direct, incisive, and effective.

Continued momentum for EDI&A, as well as social justice.

Innovation that moves hearts rather than just entertains.

A curiosity-driven, arts-making process that is inclusive, equitable, collaborative, and inventive.

The conviction to persevere when the path is unclear or blocked.

 

Through our collective efforts, let’s make 2023 our most productive year yet for creating art, expanding our audiences, engaging our communities, and for building a solid foundation for Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Access in all of our cultural institutions and arts organizations.  

 

On a personal note, I am excited about the Spring 2023 publication of my new book, Champions for the Arts, which I am certain will further empower our EDI&A efforts with our staffs, co-workers, boards of directors, colleagues, as well as our communities. You’ll be hearing more about it soon!

 

I look forward to sharing news about all the brave and bold new trails you are blazing in 2023!