By Connie Martinez, SVCREATES’ Chief Executive Officer
Thanksgiving is a time for food, family, and reflection. As we work our way around the dinner table declaring what we are thankful for the list most often includes our health, our home, and each other. My son-in-law Oscar grew up in Colombia in the midst of civil war; and despite stories of loss and scarcity, his gratitude for the strength of his community and family stands out to me. He shares memories of daily gatherings infused with music, dance, and love that make Colombia one of the happiest countries on earth as measured by human emotion, anchored in community.
As Americans, we take a lot for granted. The arts are on that list. So, this Thanksgiving, let us take a moment to thank the artists who inspire us, heal us, enlighten us, and bring us joy. They are our community builders, social justice warriors, and educators. Let us take a moment to thank the staff, board, and volunteers of our arts organizations. They work tirelessly to lift up our artist community and provide art and cultural offerings that bring us together, nurture our souls, and remind us of what it means to be human. Let us take a moment to recognize the value of the arts as a cornerstone for cross-cultural understanding and engagement as we struggle as a nation to strengthen our democracy, heal the wounds of racism, and hold “these truths” to be self-evident.
Happy Thanksgiving.
