Secretary of the Arts

[emily]

In November Quincy Jones was quoted saying, "... the next conversation I have with President Obama is to beg for a Secretary of Arts."
[November 14th 2008 WNYC interview by John Schaefer on "Soundcheck."]

Surprisingly enough, the United States is one of the few democracies that doesn't already have a position existing for control of arts and/or cultural activities.

The wishes of Jones reminded me a lot of the Save the Music Foundation, which is interested in keeping music a vital part of school curriculum. The Secretary of the Arts would ensure this standard as well as "preserve American music".

Thoughts? They have started an online petition for the position actually, here is the link:

www.petitiononline.com/esnyc/petition.html

I think it seems like a good idea.

[danny]

I actually had no knowledge of any of this information. being away from a computer and not having a "working television" is really hurting my knowledge on current events, so coming to the board and reading something like this is really rad. Especially considering it's affiliation with music AND politics. I can't think of any real reason not to sign this thing, especially with the recession only deepening, i think music is one thing i can say that i wouldn't want to lose in our school system.
I know a good portion of the frequenters on the board have definitely been really involved in musical classes at school, and most of my friends have participated in them as well, and i've only seen good things come from it.
in other words, guys:
SIGN THE MOTHA FUCKIN PETITION

but seriously, look into it, and share your thoughts on the matter

[milofultz]

I must agree.