In January, we shared data to demonstrate the positive impact that the arts have on federal, state, and local economies. The arts can also affect policy and social change in communities, and many artists actually use their work for political activism and to advance social justice—in efforts to ensure that all people are treated fairly and equitably, and that we all have the same rights, treatment, and opportunities.
Among the basic purposes of art (along with entertainment, ceremony, preservation, self-expression, and more) are the goals of communication, education, and persuasion. People have used the arts throughout history for social justice purposes such as:
- Raising awareness
- Encouraging action
- Building alliances
- Serving under-resourced communities
When art meets activism in this way, it is sometimes called artivism. (Take a look at In 2020, ‘Artivism’ Reigned Supreme In Boston, published on the WBUR website in December.)
Many forms of art have been used for this type of advocating for social justice too. Among them are:
- Murals and sculptures
- Theater and dance performances
- Poetry
- Folk and pop music
- Posters and signs, even ones for political protest
So, instead of facts and figures this month, we’ll be featuring and amplifying the work of artists using their talents to advance social justice, especially BIPOC artists and in BIPOC communities.
Join us as we continue to explore and celebrate all that art can do!
