Voting is Essential to Arts Advocacy
Even in the midst of a government shutdown, your right to vote remains one of the most powerful tools for shaping the future of arts and culture. At the federal level, while Congress negotiates to reopen the government and finalize appropriations bills, funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) remains at stake.
Now is the time to activate your voice for the arts! Here are some resources to help you create an informed and intentional voting plan.
Jersey City Mayoral Elections
As Jersey City prepares for its upcoming mayoral and gubernatorial elections, the Jersey City Arts Council (JCAC) is exploring how arts policy can guide a more creative, equitable path forward. Below are resources to help you make an informed plan to vote.
In September, JCAC hosted its first City Conversations panel to discuss the importance of centering arts policy in creating a thriving cultural ecosystem. Hear from Executive Director, Deonté Griffin-Quick, and a panel of experts as they share insights on why arts advocacy matters now more than ever.
🎥 Watch the City Conversations Replay here.
In October, a coalition of Jersey City arts organizations hosted a Mayoral Arts Debate, where candidates shared their visions on topics such as arts education, city planning, and cultural investment.
Below are links to each candidate’s published arts and culture plans:
New Jersey Gubernatorial Elections
Each election cycle, ArtPride New Jersey surveys incumbent legislators and challengers about their positions on arts-related issues.
You can review the most recent responses from state and federal candidates here:
🔗 ArtPride NJ Candidate Responses
Plan to Make Your Voice Heard
It’s time to ensure your voice — and your vote — count.
Visit ArtPride New Jersey’s Make a Plan to Vote page for simple, nonpartisan tools to help you:
✅ Check your registration status
🕓 Review voting deadlines and mail-in options
The arts rely on informed, engaged voters like you — people who understand that creative expression is vital to New Jersey’s future.
📅 Early Voting in Jersey City ends on November 2
🗳️ Election Day is Tuesday, November 4
Disclaimer:
The Jersey City Arts Council provides this information for educational and informational purposes only. Links and reflections do not imply endorsement of any candidate or political party.