The Healey-Driscoll Administration has made strides in bolstering the cultural vitality of Massachusetts with the recent establishment of the Cultural Economy Advisory Council. Governor Maura Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll jointly announced the council’s formation earlier this year, intending to carve out pathways for economic opportunities in the arts and assure cultural equity. The appointed council members hail from diverse backgrounds, including the performing arts, creative tourism, and government, setting the stage for a cross-sector collaboration aimed at supporting the state's $27 billion creative economy.
Among the council's goals is the commemoration of America's 250th anniversary through the Massachusetts 250 initiative, designed to spur statewide cultural celebrations over the coming two years. Despite the task at hand being substantial, Governor Healey expressed enthusiasm at the launch, having said, "We are excited to kick off this effort to support our cultural economy," according to a statement released by mass.gov. Likewise, Lt. Governor Driscoll emphasized the importance of the sector, underscoring the role of cultural and arts organizations in job creation and state economic growth.
Driven by the recognition of arts as a cornerstone of economic well-being, the administration views these organizations as sparkplugs for local economies, cascading benefits to small businesses and nurturing arts entrepreneurs. "Our cultural and arts organizations are so important to the economic well-being of cities and towns across Massachusetts," Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao conveyed in a statement. Hao, serving as one of the co-chairs of the council, will work alongside Kate Fox, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism and the council's other co-chair.
Massachusetts' dedication to its arts and culture sector has been further illuminated by the composition of the advisory council, which features a blend of expertise from museum directors to executive heads of performing arts institutions. The ambitions for the council are not small, aiming to make the state an even more appealing destination for residents and visitors alike – a sentiment echoed by Fox, who remarked on the council's role in supporting the creative economy and propelling job development.
As the Cultural Economy Advisory Council begins its tenure, the team is set to present recommendations that propel cultural development and advocate for job growth across the state's cultural sector. With a rich tapestry of artists and organizations involved, the Healey Driscoll Administration hopes this assembly will be the crucible for maintaining and enhancing Massachusetts' standing as a leader in America's cultural landscape.
