The public opinion research on attitudes towards arts and heritage released by the federal government last week reaffirms Canadians’ longstanding belief that culture is important to us:
- 57% of Canadians say they were involved in at least one artistic activity in the last 12 months
- 66% of Canadians feel that arts and culture are important to their quality of life, and that of their families.
It follows that most Canadians believe in strong government support for arts and culture. Nine in ten of us feel that government should support the arts. 95% of Canadians agree that governments in Canada should help protect and preserve the country’s heritage.
Other similar reports, such as the Ontario Arts Council research commissioned from Environics on The Arts and Quality of Life, found similar trends.
With such strong support for the cultural sector, the conversation now needs to shift from ‘whether or not to support’ to ‘how best to support’ the sector.
The dialogue has started at the Canada Council for the Arts and other agencies. Going forward, let’s hope that we all contribute to it in meaningful ways.
Art makes you happy plus is better for your health than taking a pill to cheer you up! Great article!
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