Return of the Legislature

First, a word about AI

In my last newsletter, I shared an essay written by local musician, Kirby Sewell. Accompanying Kirby's 7 requirements for an arts supportive community were AI generated images, all of which I shared. I want to thank those who reached out with their concerns about the use of this technology in my Arts and Culture newsletter. After reflection and some research, I have come to understand more fully the concerns AI causes, not only to creators but also to the environment. AI is such a new technology, and I still have much to learn on this front. While I stand behind the ideas in Kirby’s essay, rest assured I will not use AI generated content in the future.

Fall Sitting of the Legislature

The Legislature went back into session on Monday, and my NDP Caucus colleagues are bracing for a long and difficult sitting. This UCP government plans to pass some of the most harmful, hurtful, and extreme legislation this province has ever seen. Along with my colleagues, I will continue to stand up on behalf of all Albertans, and to advocate for the kind of province we know Albertans want.

To that end, today I rose to speak about the work I have been doing over the last several months as the Shadow Minister for Arts and Culture. (You can watch the video here)

As I said in the Legislature, “Artists, arts organizations and culture add so much beauty, fun and economic stimulation to our society, without them our existence would be less fulfilling. But the arts can’t thrive without support from this government.

The gaps I’ve witnessed in the arts ecosystem, can be filled, that’s why I introduced my private Members Bill 211 titled “The Arts and Creative Economy Advisory Council Act 2024”. I look forward to continuing to raise the voices of artists in this place and take in more of their magnificent cultural offerings in the months to come.”

Please continue to send me invitations to your events, share my newsletter with your networks, and continue your incredible work to make Alberta a vibrant and exciting province to live in.

Looking ahead….

I always welcome folks to reach out with ideas on questions or Member Statements you’d like me to advocate for in the Legislature. You can email or call my office to set up a brief meeting to discuss.

One issue to keep your eyes peeled for - I’ve become increasingly concerned that arts education is not funded to the same level as sports. Having heard from parents, students and educators I plan to reach across the aisle and discuss with my colleagues the opportunities to include music lessons, theatre school, dance lessons and more in the existing sports teams funding formula for financial assistance.

Thank you for your time and support.

As always, you can reach my office at 403-244-7737 and at [email protected]