The Create the Vote Coalition’s 2022 Candidate Forum and Celebration of the Arts featured a moderated conversation with candidates running for Lieutenant Governor, an exhibit of art and creativity across disciplines, snacks, drinks, and a great location at the JMAC in Worcester.
The evening started with a meet and greet cocktail hour, with catering provided by Kim Jones of Strong Style Coffee. Along with the social time, Worcester Interfaith and Mass Voter Table were there sharing information about the Fair Share Amendment which is endorsed by the CTV coalition. The Create the Vote policy platform and invitations to endorse the platform were also available. Artwork by Julia Csekö, Hank von Hellion, Ashlee Leffita, and John Powers was on display for participants to enjoy.
The forum was opened with a music performance from Candida Rose Baptista of Golden Rose Music. Candida Rose had the audience singing, clapping, and moving to the music.
Watch a video of Candida Rose's performance
MC Hank von Hellion introduced the speakers Eric Butler of the Worcester Cultural Coalition, Olivia Scanlon of the JMAC BrickBox, and Emily Ruddock of MASSCreative to welcome participants.
Moderator Ilana Brownstein, Director of New Work at Company One Theatre kicked off the forum portion of the evening, introducing Lieutenant Governor candidates Mayor Kim Driscoll, State Representative Tami Gouveia, and State Senator Eric Lesser.
Watch the candidates' answers to the first question
Watch the candidates' answers to the second question
Watch the candidates' closing statements
Watch the whole candidate panel
A performance by duo Ana and Mori, and a performance by Ellice Patterson, Executive Director at Abilities Dance Boston closed out the evening.
Watch the performance by Ana and Mori
Watch the performance by Ellice Patterson
Watch MC Hank von Hellion's closing remarks
See some photo highlights from the evening:
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About the Venue
The PopUP and The BrickBox at the JMAC are programs of the Worcester Cultural Coalition, A public-private partnership established in 1999 between the City of Worcester and cultural organizations. The coalition's mission is to draw on Worcester's rich and diverse cultural assets to foster economic revitalization, support active creative engagement for all, and promote a strong cultural identity for Greater Worcester.
About the Create the Vote MA Coalition
The Create The Vote MA Coalition is a nonpartisan network of artists, creative workers, cultural organizations and arts groups working together in collaboration and shared advocacy. We raise awareness among voters and candidates for office about the vital role that arts, culture and creative expression play in building inclusive, connected, and more equitable communities. We envision a Commonwealth where arts, culture, and creativity are accessible to and representative of all residents.
All candidates running for Lieutenant Governor were invited to participate in this forum.
CTVMA is a nonpartisan candidate and voter education coalition. We do not endorse candidates, nor do we provide financial or in-kind support to any candidates.
