Chcago Dept. of Cultural Affairs Is Dismantled

[Larry Kart]

http://www.wbez.org/blog/jim-derogatis/chicagos-department-cultural-affairs-dismantled-29-are-laid

[BillF]

Although I'm some 5,000 miles from Chicago, the situation described is sadly being replicated here, as cultural activities are in the forefront for public spending cuts. On a personal level, I'm very concerned about the threat to Manchester's Cornerhouse, an independent cinema and art galleries centre, of which I am a member.

[ghost of miles]

While DeRogatis' article seems to indicate that bureaucratic turf battles may account for some of what's happened in Chicago, there's no doubt that it's also symptomatic of the wider problem that BillF describes--a tendency to heave the arts overboard in the face of any budgetary crisis. Incredibly short-sighted, as arts programs aren't just a "feel-good" proposition...they contribute immensely to making cities attractive to both residents and businesses. The arts are good for urban economies. In this case, people who attend these festivals patronize restaurants and hotels, etc... that's just a hard, immediate result, but events like the music festivals reverberate in other ways that benefit the city.

[Chuck Nessa]

The real point of the article seems to be the turf battle resulted in the best people gone.

[Chuck Nessa]

A posting from Michael Orlove's facebook page:

First off, let me say how lucky I feel to have such an incredible ‘family’ out there. This viral outpouring of support has been overwhelming and humbling to say the least. THANK YOU!!! The last couple weeks here have been quite difficult especially having to watch many of my beloved colleagues go through this entire ordeal. It is hard to explain or understand why this all happened but numerous dedicated and creative employees of the Department of Cultural Affairs have been terminated. I am fortunate to have the option of joining the Chicago Tourism Fund starting January 1 (2011). In this economy I feel extremely lucky. I am no longer a City of Chicago employee but (as far as I know) remain 100% involved in organizing events at Millennium Park, Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago SummerDance, World Music Festival, etc. along with the incredibly talented team of Brian Keigher, Carlos Tortolero and Helen Vasey in the new year. Not the way I wanted to end 2010 but hopeful that next year could be even better. Thanks again for the enormous show of support…I am moved beyond words. Happy Holidays to all of you. Peace, Love & Music!