Democracy without the Anxiety AND triggers: RICHELINE’S REFLECTION
Written by Richeline Cadet, Director of Organizing
September 30, 2024
Over the past several months, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to lead Team MASSCreative as we work to get more people civically engaged this election season. While the national election is grabbing most of the headlines (and causing plenty of nail-biting), our focus is also on what’s happening right here in our own backyard. Massachusetts voters will decide who will represent us in the State legislature, and on the Governor’s Council, and make critical choices on five ballot questions.
Through our Create the Vote campaign, we’re ensuring that artists, creators, and cultural organizations have the tools they need to stay informed and get involved. Our campaign has consistently engaged voters and candidates in meaningful conversations about the role of arts, culture, and creative expression in building more inclusive, connected, and equitable communities. We’ve proven that when we raise our voices together, we can elevate the profile of the arts sector, making sure that artists, creative workers, cultural nonprofits, and small businesses are recognized and supported during elections.
As part of MASSCreative’s commitment to engage in cross-sector dialogue and advocacy, I recently attended the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C. To say it was eye-opening would be an understatement. I found myself surrounded by passionate leaders from across the country, all sharing the same dedication to uplifting their communities through policy and organizing. It was powerful to be in that space, where we could meet each other at the intersection of our core values and collectively focus on making real change.
While in D.C., I attended sessions led by industry experts and policymakers on a variety of policy subjects and advocacy efforts. As MASSCreative’s Director of Organizing, I made sure to participate in “Exploring the Intersection of Arts + Government: A Force for Good in Politics” and “Books Save Lives: The Power of Black Storytellers,” to learn more about how cultural policy can advance a more just United States. Each session gave me fresh insight into the issues impacting voters, both nationwide and here in Massachusetts. The conversations underlined what we already know: how deeply connected the arts are to the policies shaping our everyday lives. During the Books Save Lives session, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, who moderated the discussion, opened up about why she advocates the way she does—for marginalized communities, young artists, and future authors. She shared a deeply personal story about her own childhood, where, while experiencing abuse, the books and authors she encountered gave her hope and the belief that one day she could create real change in the world.
Leaving the conference, I felt energized to return to Massachusetts and pursue advocacy partnerships with other sectors and passionate residents ready to make Massachusetts more vibrant and inclusive. The creative sector is filled with passionate, talented people ready to solve challenges and connect communities. That's why I’m proud to lead the organizing efforts at MASSCreative and connect advocates to opportunities for shared advocacy and building solidarity. By offering clear resources, we hope to take the guesswork out of civic engagement and help more people feel confident in their ability to make an impact.
As November 5th approaches, it's important to remember that it’s not just about who gets elected. It’s about ensuring that the voices of artists, small business owners, and everyday people are heard and represented.
And yes, that can feel overwhelming at times, especially given the daily headlines that remind us of the great work we must do together. Our Create the Vote campaign includes resources to help you make a plan to vote, help educate others in your community about the importance of local elections this election cycle, and make sure people feel empowered, not triggered, by the idea of voting.
I hope our efforts this election season create a sense of calm amidst all the chaos. When voters—especially those in the arts—feel informed and ready to take action, it strengthens our communities. Democracy isn’t just about the big national conversations: it’s about the decisions we make every day, right here at home.
