By Lisa Levy, Esq.
Director of Advocacy & Engagement
The Center for Arts Education
Do you care about arts in the public schools? Do you have an opinion about your community? Do you think education is an important issue? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, you should get involved in the New York City election this fall.
Decisions about funding in the schools are often made at the local level, so it’s important to vote in City elections. Arts education is required for all students from PreK-Grade 12, but we must make sure all students have access to the tools and resources they need.
In order to be eligible to vote, you must be at least age 18 and a resident of New York City, among other requirements, which you can learn more about from the New York City Board of Elections (vote.nyc.ny.us) or by calling 311, but anyone can get involved!
All it takes to be an advocate is to have a cause you care about and something to say. Artists, students, parents, and teachers are ideal advocates who can advance a variety of causes and support those who have been disenfranchised, because they see and speak up for those at the margins of society. Artists, students, parents, and teachers have also historically been leaders at the forefront of social justice movements where they are ready to take a stand.
This fall all New York City elected officials including the Mayor, Public Advocate, Comptroller, District Attorneys, Borough Presidents, and City Council members may be up for election. Learn more about who is running from the Campaign Finance Board, at nyccfb.info/voterguide.
This year the Primary Election is Tuesday, September 12, 2017, but you must have registered by August 18, 2017. The General Election is Tuesday November 7, 2017 (the registration deadline is October 13, 2017). Polling places are open from 6am-9pm in New York City. For more information, contact the Board of Elections at (vote.nyc.ny.us) or call 311.
All students deserve to have a well-rounded education that includes arts. Remember, when you go to the polls this fall, #VoteforArtsEd!
Visit centerforartsed.org/voteforartsed for more info.
