Dear Mayor-Elect Mamdani and members of the Arts & Culture Transition Team,
As we embark on the journey to transform New York into a more inclusive and vibrant city for all its residents, we must not forget the crucial role that arts and culture play in shaping our communities. Arts and culture are not just forms of expression; they are vehicles for empowerment and social change. It is imperative that every member of our society has the opportunity to participate in artistic and cultural activities and access affordable arts programs.
Unfortunately, the current landscape of the arts sector favors artists from privileged backgrounds, as access to resources and opportunities is limited for working-class individuals. Your proposed initiatives, such as rent freezes, free buses, and universal childcare, will undoubtedly benefit working-class artists and cultural workers, making it easier for them to pursue their creative endeavors.
It is essential to recognize that the changes you are advocating for constitute cultural policy. Rather than seeking special considerations for artists, we must support the broader initiatives that aim to create a more equitable society for all. As a democratic socialist, you understand the significance of public support for essential services like education, healthcare, and transportation. Arts and culture should be treated with the same level of importance and receive adequate funding to ensure universal access and equity.
The current disparities in public funding for the arts, as highlighted in the Center for an Urban Future’s report, Creative New York 2025, must be addressed urgently. It is unacceptable that certain neighborhoods receive more support than others, perpetuating inequalities in access to cultural resources. The distribution of funds by the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs (DCLA) must be reevaluated to ensure fair and equitable allocation across all communities.
One of the most glaring examples of inequity is the disproportionate funding allocated to large cultural institutions compared to smaller organizations. The fact that the Metropolitan Museum of Art receives more funding than all cultural institutions in Queens and Staten Island combined is a clear indication of the need for reform. By increasing the DCLA budget to one percent of the city’s total budget, we can level the playing field and provide adequate support to underserved neighborhoods and communities.
Moreover, the current grantmaking process through the Cultural Development Fund (CDF) must be reimagined to prioritize general operating support over project-based grants. This shift will alleviate the burden on cultural organizations and ensure sustainable funding that enables them to thrive and grow. Transparent reporting of funding distributions by DCLA is essential to track progress and hold the agency accountable for achieving greater equity in the arts sector.
In conclusion, I urge you to prioritize the reform of arts and culture funding in New York City as part of your administration’s agenda. By investing in the arts, you are not only supporting the creative community but also fostering a more inclusive and vibrant city for all its residents. Let us work together to create a cultural landscape that reflects the diversity and richness of our city.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
