« Reflection: Civic Engagement

Rachel Wray

Civic Engagement

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MB Kathryn Smith NS
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   While I have been working with the Greater Birmingham Arts Education Collab I have learned why it's so important for this organization to exist and continue to be funded. It has made me aware of the poverty around the Birmingham area and the need for arts education. I just assumed that all schools had art classes but I have learned that this is a privilege. Growing up I had to ability to attend art classes, join my high school band, and we had a choir, as well as a praise team for worship. This internship has shown me how lucky I am to grow up with these opportunities and make me want to help bring the arts into areas that don't get this kind of exposure. 

   During my internship, I have been finding better and more efficient ways to spread the word about this organization by developing engaging images to be posted on their social media platforms to help integrate the arts into local school districts and programs. The GBAEC primarily focuses on researching and applying for grant opportunities so that they may be properly funded to provide for artists, musicians, teachers, and any other titles that they hire to send into local schools to provide art education. My supervisor and other directors who work for this organization are dedicated to the arts and providing the best education they can to underprivileged children because they all have a strong personal relationship to the arts. 

   Strategies that I have noticed from the book that also play a part in my internship have been to leave a positive impact, and how to be a social innovator. This organization does its best not to just integrate the arts into schools but to really teach the kids what the arts are. This opportunity has taught me how to be a social innovator for the rest of the community. This month has shown me another way that I can give back to the community while also leaving an impact on the younger generation. It has allowed me to see what it's like from a different perspective. Meeting with my supervisor online every day has allowed me to make connections with her, and she has taught me valuable skills as well as work skills. 

3 replies
  1. Post by Natalie Santiago
    Re: Civic Engagement
    I defiantly think that art is something that kids need to be exposed to, as it will make them more well rounded and even give them an outlet to express themselves. So being able to spread the word/teach about art is very important! many people sometimes underestimate how impactful art can be, so it is important to spread the word. I find it interesting that art classes are considered a privilege because I also grew up participating in art, music, etc.  I had never thought of it like that. I also think seeing things from a different perspective is good because it opens your eyes to things you never saw before!
  2. Post by Kathryn Smith
    Re: Civic Engagement
    Say a little more about your plans for civic engagement going forward. You mention that you've learned how to be a social innovator. What will social innovation look like in your future? Will it take place as part of your career? As volunteer work? As a service learning course at BSC? Will you continue to focus on the arts? On educational inequalities? On marketing and fundraising? Something else?
  3. Post by Mary Bullock
    Arts
    Arts are so important and its hard when an organization such as this has to fight to remain in existence. This means more work for people like you and your coworkers, but makes the work you all are doing so much more meaningful. I think arts can mend communities and bridges and this is exactly what we need now. 
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