Broward Cultural Division Celebrating National Arts & Humanities Month

Broward Cultural Division joins hundreds of arts organizations and communities nationally this month in celebrating National Arts & Humanities Month (NAHM). Arts organizations and communities are asked to recognize the many ways that arts and cultural performances enhance lives.

More than 400 NAHM events are happening across the United States, so join in by attending the theater or other cultural arts events, taking a ceramics or dance class, or singing songs with your kids. Join in to this coast to coast collective recognition, by attending a free film screening, Big Blue Bear.

"We must recognize the contributions of the arts and humanities not only by supporting the artists of today, but also by giving opportunities to the creative thinkers of tomorrow. Educators across our country are opening young minds, fostering innovation, and developing imaginations through arts education. Through their work, they are empowering our Nation's students with the ability to meet the challenges of a global marketplace."
~Presidential Proclamation-National Arts & Humanities Month

There are various additional ways to Get Involved. From hosting a Creative Conversation or arts center open house to securing a mayoral proclamation or better newspaper coverage of the arts, people in every community across the U.S. can celebrate NAHM by helping recognize the contributions of cultural organizations in their region.

Ideas for Community Events
• Host a Creative Conversation in your community
• Ask local businesses, libraries and schools to host special NAHM events, such as open mic nights, poetry readings or talent shows
• Suggest that local art venues, such as museums and theatres, give "behind-the-scenes" tours and interviews for families and students
• Organize a parade, art festival, "battle of the bands," talent show or art auction that showcases local talent. You can even raffle off local art, literature or tickets at the big event!
• Conduct a series of training workshops for local artists on marketing, portfolio development and publicity.
• Develop and present an award for the outstanding arts organization in your community
• Create a community photo album. Invite local residents to donate old photographs and take new ones throughout the month
• Invite local government officials to any events that you plan ways individuals can celebrate
• Attend local arts events like museum exhibits, local plays, festivals or outdoor concerts. If you have kids, make it a family outing!
• Take a class in creative writing, dance, painting or whatever strikes your fancy
• Perform publically and/or donate your artwork, literature and/or teaching skills to a community center.
• Use your blog or website to post NAHM Web stickers or posts about your favorite art experiences.
• Unveil a new project, product or service during NAHM
• Make a video about what the arts mean to you and post it on YouTube (and send us the link).
• Enjoy the arts with your family and friends. Sing, play music, read a book, dance or draw together
• Be an advocate. Write to your Member of Congress, letting him/her know how important arts and arts education funding is to you, your family and your community

Visit the Americans for the Arts website to see a listing of events in your area. Take time during NAHM to volunteer and serve in your community. Broward Cultural Division invites you to post your arts volunteer stories on the NAHM website at serve.artsusa.org.

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