The COVID-19 global pandemic has upturned our lives and created a lot of stress. But it’s important to be aware of the facts and not be led by misinformation easily spread through social media. 1/8

I would like to clarify some misinformation that is currently out there regarding our government’s support for the arts and the non-profit sector. 2/8

Fact check 1: We have not cut any funding to the Alberta Foundation for the Arts, cultural industry or community grants because of COVID-19. We are operating on this year’s budget passed in March. 3/8

Fact check 2: The @AFA1991 is an independent government agency that manages its own budget. While the Alberta government provides its overall annual funding, the AFA manages how to use the funds in order to meet its mandate. 4/8

Fact check 3: The Community Initiative Program (CIP) is not cancelled. The CIP program has a number of individual grant streams that support non-profits in both operating and project funding, some of which are now paused due to COVID. 5/8

Fact check 4: We are reallocating money from the CIP Project-Based grant to CIP Operating to help struggling small and medium-sized front-line charities and non-profits maintain core operations and provide services during COVID-19. 6/8

Fact check 5: Artists can access the same federal supports and payment deferrals that are helping Albertans deal with the challenges brought by this unprecedented global public health emergency. 7/8

I am passionate about the arts and the contributions it brings to us all. We are actively assessing the situation, including engaging with community stakeholders and the Alberta Foundation for the Arts. Moving forward, I will continue to champion and support the arts. 8/8
#ABleg