Statement from Jeremy Johnson, Executive Director Newark Arts
Dear Friend,
These first eight days of 2021 started with excited anticipation and have concluded with disillusionment. The call for creatives and artists to express the fundamentals of freedom, equality, and equity have never been greater.
Newark Arts Executive Director, Jeremy Johnson
Like many of you, I watched in disbelief as insurrectionists flew the Flag of the Confederacy proudly in the nation’s Capitol. As the descendant of enslaved African Americans, I recoiled at the sight. But I remain undaunted.
My brothers, uncles, and cousins served in the armed forces to defend this country’s freedom for all of its people. And every day I have the privilege of working with the vibrant arts community of the great city of Newark. Our creatives have repeatedly demonstrated their resilience, ingenuity and perseverance. They have used art to build up neighborhoods, fight for social justice, educate our youth and beautify our communities.
Newark Arts will continue to work in partnership with the creative community and our public and private partners to “power the arts to transform lives.” We will not be silent. We will lift our voices, wield our brushes, move our feet, play our instruments, and enact our dramas to express the ongoing struggle for justice.
Be encouraged. Be creative. Be involved.
Sincerely,
Jeremy V. Johnson
Executive Director
Newark Arts –
Powering the arts to transform lives