Arts Industry article by CEO Maria Adebowale-Schwarte on diversity and inclusion in the arts and culture
Read a new article by Foundation for Future London’s CEO Maria Adebowale-Schwarte for Arts Industry about why the arts and cultural sector needs to combat discrimination, inequality and exclusion to survive the C19 pandemic. She reflects on her work with the newly established Culture and Commerce Taskforce chaired by the Lord Mayor in partnership with the City of London Corporation and Culture Mile.
Maria writes:
“The arts and culture industry stands at a crossroads. Covid-19 and rampant inequality has forced the sector to radically review its role and question its survival.
The hard facts: the creative industries is looking at a £77bn turnover loss by the end of 2020, and London will see over 50% of that loss. Talking to diverse arts and culture freelancers and organisations, the impact is most significant on people who felt that doors had never been opened, despite skills, commitment, talent and ideas. If you are Black, Asian, minority ethnic, disabled, female, working-class, or LGBTQIA+ you’re more likely to be impacted by reduced funding and lack of grant opportunities and employment in the sector.”
She also explains how the Foundation is taking strong measures as a funder and fundraiser for East Bank and East London to improve our own progress on diversity, equity and inclusion.