The Canadian Dance Assembly joins the Nova Scotia Arts Coalition in expressing their deep concern about the recent announcement of cuts to the arts in Nova Scotia and respectfully urges the government to reconsider and reverse this decision.

At a time of global uncertainty, Canada’s cohesion and resilience depend on strong, connected communities. Arts and culture play a vital role in fostering solidarity, unity, and a sense of shared identity. This is not merely an aspiration—it is well established. Nova Scotia is widely recognized as a province where quality of life is strengthened by vibrant communities whose connections are sustained in part through arts and culture. Across the province, arts leaders champion creativity and cultural life even in the smallest towns and cities.

As Mark Carney noted in Davos, the future strength of nations will be built through the vitality of intermediate and smaller economies. In the same logic, the arts and culture sector is not peripheral—it is fundamental. According to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, Arts, Culture and Heritage contributed $2.6 billion to Nova Scotia’s GDP and supported more than 22,000 jobs in the province in 2023 alone. Their 2025 report Artworks: The Economic and Social Dividends from Canada’s Arts and Culture Sector further indicates that every $1 of federal investment in the arts generates $29 in economic activity.

The ripple effects of cuts to the arts will extend far beyond the cultural sector. They will affect tourism, hospitality, local industries, and the many small businesses—grocery stores, gas stations, shops, and services—that benefit from visitors and cultural activity in communities across the province.

The reductions proposed in this week’s budget will disproportionately impact grassroots, nonprofit, and community-focused organizations. The Canadian Dance Assembly includes members in Nova Scotia such as Mocean Dance and Live Art Dance, along with many independent artists who represent the province nationally and internationally. These organizations and individuals are leaders in Canada’s vibrant cultural landscape and contribute greatly to the pride, creativity, and well-being of our communities.

At moments of uncertainty, societies face a choice between withdrawing from cultural investment or strengthening it. The evidence is clear: the arts are not a luxury. They are a powerful economic driver and an essential social asset that strengthens communities, supports livelihoods, and contributes to the resilience and safety of our country.

For these reasons, the Canadian Dance Assembly calls on the Government of Nova Scotia to reconsider these proposed cuts and to reaffirm its commitment to the arts and culture sector that plays such a vital role in the province’s social and economic vitality.

CDA encourages dance artists and organizations, supporters and community members to get involved and contact their member of government. For more information and resources visit: http://www.nsarts.ca