As many of you know, I am a proud Board member of Creative Many Michigan (CMM) and our mission is very straightforward:

Creative Many is a statewide organization that develops creative people, creative places and the creative economy for a competitive Michigan through research, advocacy, professional practice and communications.

I am always invigorated after attending one of our CMM board meetings because not only do I get to listen and experience the good work we do, but I get to experience with other passionate members of the Board that bring a variety of experience and commentary to the table. We are one voice when it comes to the arts community and moreover, the creative sector which thrives in Michigan. I would venture to say that many of you do not realize the economic impact the creative industries has in Michigan. How it effects our workforce and how so much more work is needed.

Let me share a couple of facts with you from our 2016 Creative Industries Report (an update from a prior report which includes data from 2011-2014) which can be read in its entirety by downloading here.

• Creative industries employed 88, 761 people in Michigan, an increase of 1.49%.
• $4.97 billion in wages is responsible for the creative industries.

The arts matter to me and should matter to you, everywhere in the United States. This is an industry which produces serious wages, employment and can be a major force to bring talent to Michigan. When you think of creativity – some may think it only involves, music, painting and writing. Creative people are not confined to these (albeit important aspects of art), but include architects, engineers, design (fashion, automotive), and technology. They are entrepreneurs, they are major corporations that can utilize their talent and equipment to not only design a vehicle part, but something within the textile industry.

I am usually not political in my social media postings or blogs, but as a musician and as one that is passionate about keeping our arts alive — I need help spread the great work that occurs within out community.

Creative Many can use your help by signing a petition that would go to your legislators so your voice can be heard and your support can be given. For more information, please CLICK HERE.