By CGN Staff

A new local arts advocacy group, Artists for Chicago, was recently created because of the pressing need to collectively share a voice on behalf of the city's artistic community.

Part of the letter to the Mayor states, "It is with this understanding that we write to share our deep concern about the dysfunction in the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE). Our sector depends on DCASE to be a partner in local government that is available and responsive to the community's needs and a strong advocate for the economic and civic power of the arts. Last month marked the first anniversary of Clinée Hedspeth's appointment as the City of Chicago’s Commissioner of DCASE. Over the last year, through revelations in the media, reports from DCASE staff, and statements from the community, it has become evident that the urgent needs of the arts and cultural sector are not currently being met." The letter goes on to outline the problems facing the artistic community and the tangible solutions and leadership it critically needs.

The letter was sent the the Mayor's Office on April 14, but we are sharing the group's message and full letter below (also linked here).

––––––––––––

Dear Chicago Artists & Cultural Workers:

As of noon today, Artists for Chicago submitted this Letter of Concern to Mayor Brandon Johnson regarding the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE). While we don’t know what the Mayor’s response will be, we have been overwhelmed by the positive feedback to these efforts. We were thrilled to be able to include 270 signatures (55 anonymous, 215 named) from people across the sector. We had feature articles written in the Chicago Tribune and WBEZ Chicago, an on-air interview with NBC 5, and additional coverage is in the works. By far, the most gratifying comments have been from current and former DCASE staffers who have been sounding the alarm for months. Our letter has made them feel seen, heard, and respected.

Because of the incredible response to this work, Artists for Chicago will continue to build collective power for individual artists and cultural workers, inform the field about urgent issues, and keep our public servants accountable to the community. If you would like to do more, we encourage you will reach out to your Alderperson or submit written comments to the City Council.

Please stay tuned for next steps. We hope you will follow us on Instagram @artistsforchicago, and we can always be reached at artists.for.chicago@gmail.com

Thank you,

Artists for Chicago

––––––––––––