The Canadian Conference of the Arts (CCA) was founded 66 years ago to represent the interests of all Canadian artists and cultural professionals at the federal level. It provides research, analysis and consultations on public policies affecting the arts and the Canadian cultural institutions and industries. Calgary Arts Development is sharing the following invitation from the CCA:

As some of you may know, the CCA has learned of  the federal government’s decision to put an end to 35 years of financial support to the oldest and largest cultural organization in the country. Although not officially communicated, funding is currently scheduled to cease next March.

The Board of the CCA is convinced that more than ever, there is a need for an overarching cultural organization bringing together all the components of the arts, culture and heritage sector in Canada. Based on that conviction and on the belief that it is possible to reinvent the CCA based on a new business model, we have applied for transition funding from the government that would facilitate the implementation of this new business model by 2014-15. Heritage officials have supported our application, but we will not know the government’s decision until February or March, when the 2012 Budget comes out.

In the meantime, we have started a national consultation with our members, potential members and other stakeholders to validate the Board’s view that an organization like the CCA is a necessity for the Canadian cultural sector, and to explore interest in the specific services it can deliver. Consultations sessions have already taken place in Montreal and Toronto over the past two weeks and others will take place in over 13 Canadian cities before the end of February.

You are invited to join in this facilitated consultation and to help shape the CCA of the future. Please mark the date in your agenda:

Tuesday, January 31, 2012
11:30am to 2:00pm
Cliff Bungalow Arts Centre Gym, 2105 Cliff Street SW

Please confirm your interest in participating to tom.mccarthy@calgaryartsdevelopment.com.