Arts organisations in Victoria are profoundly impacted by our provincial government. From funding to facilities, the government makes key decisions every day that affect our work. Many people don’t realize how much the arts, culture, and heritage sector contributes to our provincial economy. Since 2019, despite navigating increasing challenges, BC is the only region across all Canadian provinces that has shown positive GDP growth in the arts, culture, and heritage sector (Hill Strategies, 2023). Yet British Columbia is also the only province without an arts culture policy or framework.
If we want our arts, culture, and heritage sector to thrive, we need elected representatives with a strategy. With the election approaching (and the leaders debate tonight), it’s the perfect time to ask your local candidates about how they plan to support BC’s vibrant arts sector. If you want to learn more about the way this sector impacts our community, check out this resource from the BC Coalition of Arts, Culture, and Heritage.