“A society is only as strong as it allows for its arts to flourish. Government investment in the arts, educational and recreational programs helps to create a greater cultural identity for the residents of the District, and a positive international reputation as a world-class city. In addition, art, dance, theater, sports, play and conflict resolution must be integrated into school curriculum. If a child cannot respect what is different and challenging, they cannot learn to respect one another other, their elders, or their place in the world.”

Jon Gann is the Executive Director and Founder of DC Film and DC Shorts.

To see the opening post in this series, and additional responses, click here.