As members of the arts and cultural sector, it is our responsibility to foster a community that is diverse, inclusive, and collaborative.  Presently, there are geographic regions in Jacksonville, whether these are inner city neighborhoods or rural communities, that have limited or no access to the arts. 

​We firmly believe that access to the arts, especially during developmental ages, leads to greater chances for prosperity and a better quality of life.
There is a national effort to improve diversity and inclusion in the arts.  Such efforts include research and outreach, funding initiatives, and pilot programs. Locally, there is a strong network of arts and culture organizations, of which the Cultural Council is one, that are committed to addressing systemic issues directly, through proactive and quantifiable initiatives.

For the arts and cultural sector to fully serve the community, local statistics related to access and inclusion must improve.  The first wave of improvements should include diversifying Board and staff makeup so that is representative of Northeast Florida's demographics, as acknowledged through census surveys. Organizations that are committed to this change are positively impacting the value the sector creates for the residents of this region.  

CULTURAL EQUITY STATEMENT

The Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville commits to championing policies and practices of cultural equity that empower a just, inclusive, equitable city.