RENEWING DEMOCRACY
THE POWER OF ART
A spreading global mono-culture threatens cultural diversity and democracy. In the struggle against this global mono-culture the human imagination is a powerful resisting force that gives hope for renewal. Imagination as expressed through the Arts strengthens diversity and creates powerful new perspectives. It is not a coincidence that in countries where artistic expression is repressed and controlled that the capacity of the Arts to protect and renew democracy is best appreciated. It is a vital part of the democratic defence.
- The Green Party would encourage and support a growing and vibrant art culture in Ontario by:
- Developing and financially supporting extensive media-literacy programs in schools.
- Increasing support for Arts programs in elementary and secondary schools as well as public libraries.
- Restoring and increasing funding for Arts programs in post-secondary institutions.
- Establishing 100 five-year Ontario Artist-in-Community permanent positions funded (but not selected) by the provincial government for promising new artists.
- Increasing funding for T.V. Ontario and expanding its mandate to support training and development of independent new Ontario film-makers.
- Better identifying and supporting the unique cultural qualities of Ontario through grants and development loans as has been so effectively done in Quebec.