ATLANTA JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION, ‘Opinion’

By Jennifer Bauer-Lyons

Every year, the Tuesday after Thanksgiving brings a powerful reminder of what matters most: giving. Following the frenzied shopping of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, GivingTuesday invites us to pause and redirect our attention to the causes that build stronger, more connected communities. It is a global movement of generosity. Here in Georgia, it’s also an opportunity to reflect on the values that unite us: collaboration, creativity and compassion.

As the executive director of South Fulton Arts (SFA), I see daily how the arts embody those values. Yet, the arts are often overlooked when it comes to charitable giving. This GivingTuesday, I urge Georgians to recognize the arts not just as a source of inspiration and joy, but also as a vital force that shapes our identity, strengthens our economy and brings us closer as a community.

The arts sector in Georgia is a powerhouse. It generates more than $49 million in local, county and state tax revenue for Georgia, and supports more than 10,000 jobs, according to the Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 national study conducted by Americans for the Arts and facilitated by Georgia Council for the Arts. But these numbers only scratch the surface of what the arts mean to our communities.

The arts foster empathy, bridge divides and inspire innovation … [MORE]

Jennifer Bauer-Lyons is executive director of South Fulton Arts.