Arts, culture and sport help make Prince George a place people are proud to call home. They bring us together, strengthen our local economy and give residents and visitors more reasons to enjoy our city. I believe they deserve a more prominent place in how we plan for our future.
ARTS
Art has an important place in our community. It tells our stories and creates new ones. When we encourage artists and make room for art, we invest in creativity. That creativity sparks fresh ideas, inspires people and leads to innovation even in our businesses. Supporting local arts organizations and growing their capacity means Prince George can deliver incredible festivals and put on world class shows right here in our community. Art has a vital role in helping to revitalize the downtown and we need it displayed with pride at City Hall.
CULTURE
Recognizing and celebrating our cultures is integral to our identity as a community. All of our history matters, including the history and living cultures of the Lheidli T’enneh and the many people who have helped shape Prince George. Learning from one another allows us to celebrate our diversity and understand different perspectives. Those perspectives help us make better decisions and build a community where more people feel they belong.
SPORTS
Sport connects people across generations and gives young people opportunities to grow and build confidence. Supporting our clubs, volunteers and facilities helps sport thrive, from everyday participation to competition at the highest levels. Building our capacity to host major events not only makes it easier for residents to attend, it brings visitors to our city who stay in our hotels, eat in our restaurants, and shop in our local businesses. It is an opportunity to showcase what our city has to the world. The value can continue long after the final game. Well-planned events can leave a legacy of improved facilities, stronger volunteer networks, new skills and more opportunities for local athletes.
LOOKING AHEAD
Art and sport are huge economic drivers, and arts, culture and sport ALL contribute to our wellbeing. Together, they make Prince George more welcoming, more interesting and a better place to live and visit. I want to work with the people and organizations behind these efforts to build on what we already have, create opportunities for more people to take part and support projects that leave lasting benefits. Investing in the people who create, share our cultures and bring us together through sport is an investment in the future of Prince George.
