The Federal election is scheduled for May 2nd, 2011.  For those of us employed by, involved in and inspired by the cultural industry in Canada, a change in political power could mean a change in support for the arts.  As a non-partisan organization, the CCF-FCMA encourages craftspeople to learn about every party’s cultural platform, to ask questions of the candidates and to VOTE.

The Craft sector is one of many cultural industries impacted directly by federal funding. Through the Canada Council for the Arts, the Cultural Human Resource Council, Canadian Heritage, Canada Summer Jobs and other programs, craftspeople and craft organizations access significant financial support.  For an industry that supports some 22,600 individuals, generating $727 million annually, we are an important and valuable cog in the wheel of cultural industry. (stats from the Profile and Development Strategy for Craft in Canada Study, 2003)

It is essential that candidates understand the value of our sector, and you can help spread the word! Not sure where to get started? We’ve got the resources for you!

For basic information to review and give to candidates, the Canadian Arts Coalition created a primer document and election questions to help you talk to candidates in your riding. Visit the CAC website for more ways to get involved.

For more in depth information, download the Common Election platform of the Canadian Conference of the Arts, a file which cultural organizations from all walks compiled to highlight four important measures. We also encourage you to download the Questions to Political Parties file, which will help you ask the right questions to gauge candidate support for or against these measures. Stay tuned to the CCA’s website to get up to date election analysis.

 

The most important contribution you can make is to VOTE.