UNITED TO ADVOCATE FOR THE SURVIVAL OF THE NEW YORK CITY CUSTOM COSTUME INDUSTRY
UNITED TO ADVOCATE FOR THE SURVIVAL OF THE NEW YORK CITY CUSTOM COSTUME INDUSTRY
BE AN ARTS HERO
While NYC enters phase 4 of reopening, most entertainment and art institutions and the businesses that serve them continue to be shut down. We were among the first to close and we will be the last to reopen. Until there is a vaccine our businesses will not be able to open safely.
Funding for the arts has never been as crucial in our lifetime. We need to let our elected officials know that the arts and entertainment sectors are significant drivers of the U.S. economy we need help now to be able to continue when it’s safe.
Be an arts hero by clicking the button button below.
You'll be taken to The Action Network where we ask you to enter your return address and click "Start Writing".
Your Senators will be listed and a space to write a letter will be there. Below we have written sample text that supports the CIC. Copy and paste and add your own flair! After all, you ARE an arts hero!
SAMPLE TEXT FOR "BE AN ARTS HERO" LETTER
I am writing as a supporter of the Costume Industry Coalition (CIC), a group of over 45 NYC small businesses who build costumes for the entertainment industry that came together amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. With the entertainment industry shut down, CIC Members were forced to close their doors alongside many of their vendors, colleagues, and collaborators. Hundreds of specialty artisans who create and supply costumes for the entertainment industry remain unemployed.
As you know, the Arts & Culture sector employs 5.1 million people and provides $877 billion value added to the U.S. economy. It adds more value to the economy than transportation, agriculture, or tourism. The sector is a cornerstone of the larger U.S. economy, making up 4.5% of GDP. Despite their out-sized cultural and economic contribution, the Arts & Culture sector of the U.S. economy is in grave danger.
I urge you to support any legislation which includes:
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An extension and addition to the Paycheck Protection Program with increased program flexibility.
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An extension of the CARES Act’s unemployment insurance provisions, including the $600.00 weekly supplement.
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100% COBRA premium subsidies through January 2021.
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A second round of direct economic impact payments to individuals and families.
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Billions of dollars committed to direct relief to Artists, Institutions, and all others who comprise the Arts & Culture economic ecosystem.
These are unprecedented and difficult times. Without support, the Arts and Culture ecosystem will be devastated, negatively impacting the recovery of the U.S. economy. I urge you to act now. #BeAnArtsHero!
Thank you,