PLACER COUNTY, CA (MPG) - On April 23, a dedicated team of Placer County arts advocates made their voices heard at the California State Capitol, representing local arts organizations and lobbying for critical support. The effort, coordinated as part of California Arts Advocacy Day, was spearheaded by Co-Captains Jenny Darlington-Person, Executive Director of the Arts Council of Placer County, and Anne Brown, Executive Director of the Auburn Symphony.

The team brought attention to the vital role that arts and culture play in California’s economy. With arts and culture contributing a staggering 7.5% to the state’s economy, amounting to over $289 billion in economic activity and supporting one in every ten jobs, the delegation emphasized the importance of continued investment in this sector. Among their key requests was the restoration of $5 million to the California Arts Council budget and sustained funding for the Performing Arts Equitable Payroll Fund.

Additionally, Placer County advocates highlighted the impressive local impact of non-profit arts and culture, which generates a $26.1 million economic footprint in the region. The group aims to shift the conversation surrounding the arts, urging policymakers to recognize them not merely as a charitable endeavor but as a dynamic industry that provides both economic and cultural returns on investment.

The advocacy day was further enriched by the participation of staff and volunteers from across the region, who shared personal stories, underscored the importance of the arts in their communities, and lobbied for crucial funding. The event also brought attention to the innovative integration of arts and health programs, which have been shown to enhance well-being across diverse populations.

The Arts Council of Placer County promotes and advocates for all arts across Placer County to enrich and help develop the artistic culture of our region of Northern California and beyond. ACPC is committed to using the arts to drive racial equity and social justice.