How the Arts Community Can Lead in Disaster Preparedness
By Elizabeth Snell
The arts community is uniquely positioned to drive change in disaster preparedness.
Why? Because artists and arts organizations are trusted voices within communities. When disasters strike, the arts are essential not just for recovery but for sustaining the cultural fabric that holds communities together.
Here’s how the arts can take an active role in this critical work.
- Disasters Are Becoming the New Normal
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Centers for Environmental Information, “2023 marks the fourth consecutive year with 18 or more billion-dollar disasters in the US.” These events are no longer rare—they’re routine. As climate patterns shift, every community must grapple with increased risks. The arts sector, integral to the US economy and cultural identity, cannot afford to be caught unprepared. - People Trust Local Organizations Over Outsiders
In times of crisis, people turn to familiar, trusted sources for information and support. Arts organizations, deeply rooted in their communities, often serve as hubs of trust. Unlike federal agencies or unfamiliar outside groups, local arts organizations can communicate effectively and mobilize their communities to take action. - The Arts Are Critical to Economic and Emotional Recovery
The arts are not just a “nice to have” during recovery—they’re essential. Emergency services, like FEMA, understand that arts mitigation and arts preparedness programs help entire communities. Cross-sector agencies increasingly recognize the value of incorporating arts and culture into emergency management strategies. Moreover, the arts provide emotional and psychological support, helping individuals process trauma.
- Arts and Culture Has a Key Role in Emergency Management
Disaster response efforts can often overlook the cultural identities of affected communities. Arts organizations can fill this gap by advocating for culturally sensitive recovery efforts and resources for artists and arts communities. Artists are often small business owners or freelancers and especially vulnerable to losses in a disaster.
“If you don’t have a seat at the table, then you’re on the menu,” says Jan Newcomb of National Coalition of Arts Preparedness and Emergency Response (NCAPER). The arts community needs to be at the table when disaster strikes.
Arts administrators need to increase awareness of preparedness resources, create plans, and coordinate plans with leaders across sectors. This work supports and strengthens the resilience of artists and their arts ecosystem, as well as the broader communities they serve.
- Preparedness Impacts Arts Access
When disasters hit, vulnerable populations—already facing barriers to arts access—are further isolated. Arts organizations can help bridge this gap by being proactive, ensuring they’re able to continue serving their communities even during crises. Preparedness isn’t just about protecting assets; it’s about sustaining access to creativity, expression, and connection.
Embracing disaster preparedness in the arts supports connectedness of communities.
At Mid-America Arts Alliance, our vision is more art for more people. When these disasters hit, it cuts people off more.
There’s physical, cultural, and social loss. It is a setback to our progress as arts agencies and arts organizations. Our work touches lives, builds trust, and strengthens communities. We are people serving people, and we’re working to provide access to the arts.
By embracing disaster preparedness, we can protect not just our organizations, but the cultural life of our communities. The arts and culture sectors are essential to community well-being and social connectedness. Let’s lead the way in ensuring the arts remain a cornerstone of resilience and recovery.
Related:
- Read Essential Resources for Disaster Preparedness in the Arts
- Read Four Steps to Prepare for Disasters in the Arts Community