AUG/SEPT 2021 | 20 | FRONTDOORS MEDIA Together, we can and should do more to embed the arts in community development further and grow this vital economic sector. when companies choose to locate to the Valley. And, according to data on the Arts Vibrancy Map provided by Southern Methodist University, 80 percent of employees in the arts possess a bachelor’s degree or higher, increasing the overall educational attainment of Arizonans. Artistic expression creates opportunities for more equity through shared experiences. When addressing equity for communities of color, representation does matter and often imitates real life. How wonderful to see ASU create the Sidney Portier Film School that pays tribute to a trailblazer for the artistic expression of Black creatives. Like other area residents, GPL members are returning to arts and culture offerings by experiencing the cultural phenomenon “Hamilton” at ASU Gammage and visiting Phoenix resident Ann Morton’s “Violet Protest” exhibit at Phoenix Art Museum. At GPL, we refer to the arts and culture sector as one of high “social impact” for the community, not a collection of “nonprofits.” Why? Because the profit of the work being done by Arizonans and visiting artists is of great value; it is not “nonprofit” at all. Our Greater Phoenix arts and culture ecosystem is rebuilding, rethinking and will thrive once again. Together, we can and should do more to embed the arts in community development further and grow this vital economic sector. Our shared commitment and vision to improving our quality of life for a more prosperous Arizona cannot occur without tending to our hearts and souls. COMMUNITY VOICE { issues that matter } Nearly 10,000 squares, created by people all over the country, are on display at the Phoenix Art Museum in Ann Morton’s “The Violet Protest.” Phoenix Art Museum Photo credit: Airi Katsuta

IF GIVEN THE CHANCE, Gateway for Cancer Research is dedicated to investing in next generation breakthroughs in patient-centric cancer treatments and cures. Our mission is to fund meaningful and innovative clinical trials that help people living with cancer to feel better and live longer, as we seek to end cancer as we know it. GIVE TODAY GatewayCR.org/Donate | 1.888.221.2873 OR CONTACT Natalie.Stewart@GatewayCR.org WOULD YOU HELP CREATE A WORLD IN WHICH A CANCER DIAGNOSIS IS NO LONGER FEARED? OF EVERY DOLLAR DIRECTLY FUNDS RESEARCH 99 CENTS