Mayor Robert Garcia proposed a new plan that would provide emergency financial support to artists who have been financially impacted by closures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We know that the arts have been one of the areas hardest hit by the pandemic,” said Mayor Robert Garcia. “With events coming to a halt in March, there is no doubt that these workers are struggling. This new guaranteed income program would help our artists support their basic needs and make it through this difficult period.”
Artists are a crucial part of our City’s economy, bringing color, culture and a vibrant spirit to Long Beach’s urban fabric. The City has launched programs to support businesses, nonprofits, landlords, and tenants. This plan is a part of those efforts and opens the door for expanded guaranteed income programs in the future.
Earlier this year the City provided up to $1,000 per month of rental assistance for qualifying Long Beach residents who lost income due to COVID-19. This new program for artists is in line with these relief efforts, and the work done by Mayors for Guaranteed Income. Its aim is to lessen the economic inequality gap caused by the pandemic and to lay the groundwork for a pilot universal basic income program planned for launch in 2021.
The proposal will be considered at the Long Beach City Council meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 17.
Let the City Council know that you support creating an Artist Relief Fund as part of the City’s new guaranteed income program.
https://www.artsforla.org/support_long_beach_artists