Dear Canadians,
The federal election will be held on April 28th, 2025. As you cast your vote, the Canadian League of Composers encourages you to think about our nation’s composers, sound artists and those employed in the arts.
Here’s the truth: Canadians value the arts. According to the Canadian Arts Coalition, 80% of Canadians believe that arts and culture enhance Canada’s economy and quality of life, 82% of Canadians agree that arts and culture unite Canadians and foster meaningful community engagement, and 86% believe that the arts promote cultural and social inclusion.
There are over 200,000 artists living and working across Canada today. As a whole, the arts and culture sector contributes $60 billion to Canada’s GDP whilst employing 850,000 Canadians. For every $1 of federal money directly invested in the arts, the sector generates $16.32 in broader economic activity – a return on investment over 1500%.
Unfortunately, many artists are struggling. Approximately 50% of Canadian artists earn less than $40,000 a year. These struggles are amplified amongst BIPOC artists, with 72% reporting annual incomes below $40,000. Thanks to increasing pressure on funding sources such as the Canada Council For The Arts, 68% of artists cite limited opportunities for grants as the great challenge to their work.
With Donald Trump threatening Canadian sovereignty, it is more important than ever for the federal government to support and empower our artists so they can continue producing work that unifies Canadians at home, and promotes Canadian culture abroad.
As you learn about the platforms of Canada’s political parties, we encourage you to seek out their position and policies on arts funding.
Sincerely,
The Canadian League of Composers