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Josephs encourages continued state funding for the arts

HARRISBURG, July 14 – State Rep. Babette Josephs today participated in a Capitol rally to support continued state funding for the arts in Pennsylvania.

Josephs said that both the Senate and House Republican spending plans either eliminate or dramatically reduce state spending for the arts and other cultural resources, and today's rally was an effort to demonstrate the importance of the arts to citizens.

"The arts are what distinguishes us from the animals," Josephs said. "Yes, we have opposable thumbs and walk upright, and yes, there are elephants and primates who paint, but it is our appreciation of expression and the need to immerse ourselves in the outpourings of other people that sets us apart from other creatures and brings us closer to the angels.

"What did people do after the terrible events of Sept. 11, 2001? They listened to music, they read poetry. We best express our love for a person or our country through song, plays and the erecting of monuments. And, we are not surprised that troubled and withdrawn children can be reached through dance, painting and drama. One of the ways teenagers bring the message of non-violence to their peers is through the theater.

"Pennsylvania cannot turn its back on what makes us human," she said.

According to the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance, the arts are part of a $1.3 billion industry that generates more than $160 million in tax revenue and employs 40,000 people in southeastern Pennsylvania.

Senate Bill 850, and the House Republican amendment, would eliminate all arts and cultural funding, including for the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, the Historical and Museum Commission and grants for the arts.

Libraries also would see significant cuts under both proposals.

"These issues are critical to Philadelphia as an economic and cultural leader for the state and the region. The arts help make Center City strong and vibrant and helps to keep Pennsylvania a great place to live and a state where we attract and retain the best talent," Josephs added.

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