Advocating for the Arts: A Recap of Arts Day on the Hill

The Importance of Arts Day on the Hill

Earlier this month, the Rozsa Foundation participated in Arts Day on the Hill, the Canadian Arts Coalition’s flagship federal advocacy event in Ottawa. As a steering committee member, the Rozsa Foundation is committed to federal arts advocacy through the Canadian Arts Coalition, a collaborative non-partisan movement of national associations, arts organizations, and artists.

Twenty years after the very first Arts Day, arts leaders from across the country traveled to Ottawa. They spoke directly with MPs, Senators, and senior federal staff about the future of arts and culture in Canada. Chosen from applications across the Canadian Arts Coalition's membership, the delegates reflected the diversity of our sector and our country. They shared a common purpose: to ensure that the arts and culture sector remains a vital part of what makes Canada strong now and in the future.

The Evolving Cultural Landscape

While the cultural and political landscape has changed over the past 20 years, the need for education and collaboration with the federal government remains crucial. This year's Arts Day on the Hill took place in the context of Budget 2025, which included several positive investments for cultural institutions, media, and heritage programs.

The Canada Council for the Arts managed to avoid cuts, despite reductions elsewhere within the Ministry. We publicly acknowledged these steps while affirming that critical gaps remain. Long-term, stable funding for artistic creation and outreach is still needed. For example, the Canada Council for the Arts, which funds artistic activity and cultural outreach in every riding, did not receive the investment necessary to meet the growing demands of the arts community.

The arts community is diverse, and the Canada Council is the best mechanism to ensure professional regional creativity and artistry. This fuels the national conversation and helps Canada take its place on the international stage.

Highlighting Regional Challenges

As part of the Prairie delegation, we highlighted the unique challenges faced by mid-sized and regional organizations outside major urban centers. The vital role of arts in education, community well-being, and local economies cannot be overstated. Federal policy has the opportunity to support equitable cultural participation across Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and beyond.

A core ask throughout our advocacy was for the federal government to commit to spending on arts, culture, and heritage in an amount equivalent to 1% of total federal spending. This clear benchmark would provide predictable support that reflects the sector’s economic contributions and societal impact. This includes an additional permanent investment of $140 million for the Canada Council for the Arts, as well as ongoing, permanent support for the arts programs of Canadian Heritage. Both are key mechanisms that enable creativity in communities across the country.

The Value of Arts Advocacy

We know that the arts are vital to Canada. Meeting with MPs, Senators, and other decision-makers helps ensure that the federal government understands the arts as a valuable, renewable resource that requires immediate investment. The people we met with were generally warm and open. We had many great conversations, gaining allies and advice.

Arts Day on the Hill continues to demonstrate that coordinated, evidence-based advocacy builds relationships, raises awareness, and lays the groundwork for future policy advances.

The day concluded with a reception featuring performances from Juno Award–winning jazz singer Kellylee Evans and francophone slam artist and poet Fabrice Koffy. There was also a live painting demonstration by award-winning Canadian artist Julea Boswell. The newly appointed Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture, Mark Miller, attended, along with outgoing Minister Steven Guilbeault, Deputy Minister of Heritage Isabelle Mondou, Parliamentary Secretary David Miles, and Ottawa MP Bruce Fanjoy. Our warm thanks go to MP Taleeb Noormohamed for sponsoring the event, which was also supported by the Rozsa Foundation, the Canadian Art Museums Directors Organization (CAMDO), and the Professional Association of Canadian Theatres (PACT).

Looking Ahead: The Future of Arts Advocacy

Arts Day on the Hill remains a vital opportunity to strengthen relationships with federal leaders. It educates policymakers on sector realities and amplifies a cohesive national message. As federal budget implementation unfolds, we prepare for another pre-budget submission in the spring. The advocacy that began on Parliament Hill in December will serve as an important foundation for sustained engagement and progress.

To find out more about the Canadian Arts Coalition and/or to become a member, please visit canadianartscoalition.com.

In conclusion, the arts are not just a luxury; they are a necessity. They enrich our lives and communities. By advocating for the arts, we ensure that future generations can enjoy and participate in the vibrant cultural landscape of Canada.