Re “San Diego arts leaders blast proposed massive funding cuts as ‘catastrophic’ and ‘devastating’” (April 15): At a time when cities compete to attract talent and tourism, San Diego is considering cuts that would move us in the wrong direction. The proposed cuts to arts and culture funding would erode institutions that drive our economy and keep our city vibrant.
The arts are not expendable — they educate, connect and define us. From student programs to performances that unite communities, arts organizations are central to San Diego’s civic and cultural life.
For organizations like San Diego Opera, these cuts would be devastating. The Opera employs 21 full-time staff, nine teaching artists, and over 350 artists and craftspeople each season. Its $11 million annual impact is part of an arts sector generating $1.2 billion. These cuts threaten jobs, businesses and San Diego’s cultural identity.
I urge city leaders to reconsider.
— Ross Russell, San Diego
Young people need arts education. It’s not a frill. At least 77 organizations in San Diego provide arts education in music, visual arts, dance, media and performing arts. These programs provide residencies in schools and community centers, after-school programs, learning onsite at cultural institutions and more. Many also provide social services or internships. Thousands of young people benefit from these often free or low-cost programs that ignite learning and spark originality.
Exposure to museums, live performances and visual arts connects youngsters to the cultural community and cultivates future creatives. Studies report that students involved in sustained arts participation show increases in test scores, grade point averages and graduation rates, as well as gains in self-confidence, empathy and compassion.
Reducing funding for the many arts and cultural organizations that serve our children will have a profoundly devastating effect across all grade levels and communities.
— Judy Berman Silbert, Rancho Peñasquitos