There’s something uniquely joyful about spending a summer evening listening to live music in the park, strolling through a local art gallery walk, or watching a community theater production come to life on stage. These events don’t just entertain, they connect us, inspire us, and reflect the heart and soul of our communities.
But beyond creativity and community-building, every ticket purchased, every chair filled, and every applause offered sends a powerful message that the arts are important.
The Arts Are the Heartbeat of Healthy Communities
Arts events are more than cultural happenings, they are catalysts for connection. They bring people together across generations, backgrounds, and beliefs. A concert in the park can unite neighbors who’ve never spoken. A gallery opening can inspire a young person to explore their creativity. A local play can spark conversations in a local coffee shop or cafe.
These experiences enrich our towns and cities, making them more vibrant, welcoming, and alive. When people gather around art, they form bonds. When communities support artists, they thrive.
Your Presence Is a Form of Advocacy
Every time you attend an arts event, you are making a statement. You’re telling your city leaders, state officials, and national representatives that the arts are not a luxury. They are essential.
Elected officials pay attention to what their constituents care about. They see attendance numbers. They hear from organizers. They follow the social networks with pictures of packed parks, full theaters, and bustling galleries. All of this reminds them that funding, supporting, and protecting the arts is a political and community priority.
By showing up, you’re helping ensure future funding, preserving public arts programs, and advocating for arts education in schools. Your presence becomes part of a larger movement.
The Economic Ripple Effect
Investing in the arts isn’t just good for the soul, it’s also good for the economy. Arts events drive foot traffic to local businesses, from restaurants and cafés to boutiques and bookstores. They create jobs, attract tourists, and revitalize downtown areas and small neighborhoods. Supporting the arts supports economic development and that’s a story elected officials like to hear and see. With the state senators wrapping up their spring session in another week and the U.S. elected officials going on recess for the summer at the end of June, this is the best time to invite them to the many events going on across the country. And this year, the Nebraska Passport includes many of the Creative Districts across the state. So, hit the road and visit these wonderful places.
The Bottom Line: Show Up, Speak Up, Support the Arts
The arts depend on a community of people who are willing to show up and support. The broader message we want to display is that we believe in the power of creativity, and we want our leaders to believe in it, too.
This summer, and all year long, let your presence be your voice. Attend an art show. Sing along at a concert. Laugh (or cry) at a play. And know that in doing so, you are not just enriching your own life, but you are advocating for a future where the arts are valued, protected, and celebrated by all.
