October is National Arts and Humanities Month.  President Barack Obama, opened the month stating, “America has flourished because of the creative spirit and vision of our people.  Our nation is built on the freedom of expression, and we rely on the arts and humanities to broaden our views and remind us of the truths that connect us.  We must never take for granted the wonder we feel when standing before a timeless work of art or the world of memories that is unlocked with a simple movement or note."

To celebrate National Arts and Humanities Month, MASSCreative is throwing the state's first #ArtsMatter Day.  On October 24, MASSCreative encourages all artists, creative minds, and exceptional thinkers to share stories of why the arts matter to them.  By doing so, we can all broaden the discussion on the arts and culture among Massachusetts voters and raise the profile of these issues in the upcoming state elections in November.

During #ArtsMatter Day, MASSCreative will highlight various arts and cultural events around the state while engaging in a day-long social media conversation.

"October 24th is a great opportunity for the Commonwealth’s arts and cultural community to tell all the candidates for office that #ArtsMatter," said MASSCreative Executive Director Matt Wilson.  We look forward to working with a new Governor and Legislature who embraces the power of the creative community to spur our economy, educate our kids, and build vibrant and connected communities.”

 MASSCreative has also created a Thunderclap campaign to amplify just how crucial the arts are via arts supporters on Facebook, Twitter, and Tumblr.

(To read the President's Proclamation in full: click here)