James November-December 2024 web - Flipbook - Page 57
are not treated as separate entities but
as interconnected forces that uplift our
communities. It is not merely a matter of funding the arts or enhancing
healthcare; it is about acknowledging
that the well-being of our citizens hinges on a holistic approach that values
creativity as much as physical health
does. This is a call to action.
With the recent state budget surplus, the Georgia Legislature should
prioritize this initiative in their funding
decisions. By allocating resources spe-
cifically for arts integration into health
programs, we can serve all Georgia
cities, fostering healthier, more resilient communities statewide.
I call on my fellow leaders, policymakers and citizens to champion the integration of arts into health strategies.
The arts are not an afterthought; they
are a critical component of a comprehensive strategy. Let us heed the words
of Ecclesiastes 3:11, which reminds us
that “He has made everything beautiful
in its time.” Together, we can ensure
that our community reflects this beauty
in both art and health.
The benefits of arts on health and
well-being can be seen throughout
the lifespan. From early childhood
through adolescence, arts education
supports the social and emotional
needs of students, helping them cope
with feelings and fostering resilience.
For older adults, increased participation in the arts has been linked to positive health outcomes. Creative arts
therapies and arts-in-health programs
can address specific physical and
mental health conditions and improve
the quality of life for patients and
caregivers. In neighborhoods, artsbased strategies can enhance social
cohesion, promote health equity, and
contribute to community well-being.
Let us act decisively without a
partisan posture to ensure that our
policies reflect the urgency of this vital
initiative for all Georgians. And always
know this: I love you and there ain’t
nothing you can do about it!
N OV EM B E R /D EC E M BER 2024
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