The funding and overall existence of Colorado Creative Industries, our state arts agency, is in serious jeopardy due to proposed funding cuts recommended by the Joint Budget Committee staff due to COVID-19. We encourage the arts community of the Pikes Peak region to reach out to your state legislators to reinforce the impact and significance of CCI’s role in our state’s economy and social fabric.
The State of Colorado’s FY21 budget parameters have not been finalized nor has the state received the updated revenue forecasts. Given the uncertainty of projected State revenues, the State continues to explore multiple contingency scenarios to deliver a balanced budget. Ultimately, the legislature will provide the Governor with a budget that meets the agreed upon parameters. Until that time, the impact on Colorado’s arts community and Colorado Creative Industries is unclear.
What can you do?
- Find your state legislator and their contact information. Elected officials want to hear from their constituents and voters in their district.
- Arm yourself with data and your personal story of impact through the arts. There is lots of great data on CCI’s website. Share why the arts and creative industries are important to you!
- Send your message right away and a follow-up phone call is invaluable to your own representatives, stating that you’re a constituent.
No time? Need to move faster than that? Here’s a start…
Dear Representative / Senator [Last Name],
It is vitally important that funding is maintained for Colorado Creative Industries (CCI), our state arts agency housed in the Office of Economic Development and International Trade. I understand that the State’s FY21 budget parameters have not been finalized. Until that time, the impact on Colorado’s arts community and the future of CCI is unclear.
The arts are essential to our well-being. They provide comfort and connection in stressful times. They strengthen our communities and inspire creativity. But most importantly right now, the arts and creative industries are a critical economic driver and will be necessary for Colorado’s financial recovery.
- Arts and cultural production accounts for $15.6 Billion and 4.5% of the Colorado economy, contributing 103,401 jobs, more than mining or transportation (2017).
- CCI attracts roughly $800,000 annually in federal investment for the state of Colorado from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) with a required state match.
- State certified Creative Districts contribute to over 31,000 jobs and $1.8 Billion in total creative industry earnings.
CCI has been a linchpin in pooling and leveraging relief funding for artists and cultural organizations in Colorado as a result of COVID-19. Their investment in the Colorado Artist Relief fund attracted other funders to contribute and helped ensure money was distributed statewide. Without CCI, Colorado would lose its federal funding from the NEA, including critical recovery resources through the CARES Act.
In order for Colorado’s economy to recover, we need to continue to invest in the arts and creative industries. Colorado cannot afford to lose its state arts agency. Please make sure CCI’s funding is maintained.
Sincerely, [Name]
