What a year! As we reflect on the past fiscal calendar, July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024, a defining moment for our region was the awe-inspiring solar eclipse we witnessed together. Just as the sun and moon aligned to create an unforgettable collective experience for northeast Ohioans, so did Assembly focus its mission to unify and impact Cleveland’s creative sector, advocating for resources, equity, and support for artists and cultural organizations alike.
In the pages of this annual report we spotlight some of the milestones. The photos reflect the incredible artists and programs that were part of the first cohort of the Creative Impact Fund. We highlight the impact of our advocacy with government partners, which led to the naming of a senior strategist in Cleveland City Hall and a $3M investment in artist-led projects across the city. We participated in a national economic study, AEP6, that quantified the local dollars and jobs generated by the arts and culture industry. Our efforts with state and county officials led to ground-breaking legislation. It will allow Cuyahoga County voters the option to replace and grow a cigarette levy that could generate $160M over 10 years for cultural nonprofits. And there’s so much more.
These movements have led us to declare 2023-2024 as the Year of the Levy and the Year of Individual artists.
Please continue to follow and support Assembly by becoming a member. Your engagement helps elevate and invest in an arts and culture sector that benefits all of us. Thanks for your partnership!
Gratefully,
Jeremy V. Johnson
President and CEO Assembly for the Arts
