With the economy being a major selling point of the 2008 presidential election, a panel yesterday discussed what they claimed plays a major, if underrepresented, factor in America’s financial well-being — the arts.
“If you have more music and arts in a community, I guarantee you that your economy will grow,” said Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper.
Hickenlooper claimed that an artistically vibrant city attracts the types of people — CEOs, inventors, etc. — who can boost the local economy.
“Those geeks want to live in cities with the arts,” he joked, adding that he is an uber-geek himself.
Dream panel
The “dream panel” that discussed arts and arts education yesterday at the Museo de las Americas, 861 Santa Fe Dr., included Rhythm and Blues star John Legend, New York Congresswoman Louise Slaughter and philanthropist Sheila C. Johnson, who co-founded Black Entertainment Television and is an owner or partner in three professional sports franchises.
Every panel member stressed the importance of early music education in school and at home.
“Do not separate it out from your everyday life,” said Johnson. “Everything that you’re doing daily, the arts are built into.”
Living proof
Legend said he is living proof of the importance of music education and music school programs. A self-described shy kid, the multi-Grammy Award winner said participating in school musicals and choir helped him connect with the larger community.
“I can’t imagine life without music,” he said.
Legend was the only panel member who specifically mentioned Sen. Barack Obama, and said he supported the Illinois Senator. The singer of “If You’re Out There” and “Green Light” said he believed Obama would be good for arts in America.
Pressure both parties
Congresswoman Slaughter, who is a big supporter of the National Endowment for the Arts, encouraged audience members to pressure both political parties to increase funding for the arts and arts education. She explained that while pointing out how arts can improve local economies is a good idea, that’s not the art’s only strength.
“I believe with all my heart that a child that creates will not destroy,” she said. “We are coming a long way. (It’s) not just economic benefits, it’s the human benefits.”
