Cllr Kaya Comer-Schwartz, Executive Member for Community Development, explains how Islington Council is working to tackle inequality through its London Borough of Culture bid.
Labour-run Islington Council is committed to creating a fairer borough for all. That includes reducing access, educational and employment inequalities through the arts.
Islington has a wealth of arts, heritage and cultural offers, and yet too many of our residents do not see the benefit from or take part in what is on their doorstep. We want to change this by increasing access to our cultural institutions, so that they are inclusive of everyone in Islington, regardless of their background.
Culture means different things to different people but, for me, it is all about a distinctive character. I believe that Islington has a unique vibe, with over 160 cultural organisations doing some amazing work. They have the power to make a creative difference, together with local communities.
Islington Council is bidding to be the Mayor’s London Borough of Culture 2019 so that we can deliver our vision to make Islington a place where everyone can develop, share and value their creative talent. That way, we can tackle inequalities in the borough by engaging residents who currently miss out.
Whether you are from a local community group, an established artist or organisation, or a resident, we want to hear from you about how we can achieve this. We will use the strongest ideas that you submit to shape Islington’s London Borough of Culture bid and help bridge some of the gaps in the culture, heritage and arts sector to create a fairer Islington.
The deadline for submissions is 12pm on Friday 10th November, so get applying and good luck!
How to submit a proposal:
For more information and to download the proposal form, visit the Council website. If you feel you have a good idea but would like help with completing the application form, the Arts Service will be providing sessions every weekday until Thursday 9th November. To book a session call 020 7527 5243 or email arts@islington.gov.uk
Pictured – Cllr Kaya Comer-Schwartz, Executive Member for Community Development