Released on July 10, 2002
Saskatchewan passed ground breaking legislation this session, recognizingthe contributions of cultural workers to the enrichment of society in the
Status of the Artist Act.
"We recognize that cultural workers are the ambassadors of what we are as a
people - our diversity, our distinctive abilities, and our hopes and
aspirations," Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Joanne Crofford
said. "This act sets the groundwork for artists' equity in the broader
community and affirms the principle of fair compensation for artistic
workers."
"We are pleased the government has recognized artists' important
contribution to Saskatchewan, and congratulate the minister on her
leadership on this issue," Saskatchewan Arts Alliance's Allen Lefebvre
said. "Status of the Artist measures will strengthen the artistic
community and provide new cultural and economic opportunities throughout
the province. We look forward to the exciting work ahead."
"Professional musicians in Saskatchewan welcome the introduction of Status
of the Artist Legislation by the provincial government," American
Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 553 President Skip Kutz said. "This
kind of progressive legislation will attract professional artists and their
companies to our province."
By late fall, 2002, an advisory committee will be in place to further
research, study and report back to government on more substantive labour
and social equity issues for artists.
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For more information, contact:
Wendy Campbell Marnie Gladwell
Culture, Youth and Recreation Saskatchewan Arts Council
Regina Regina
Phone: (306) 787-1062 Phone: (306) 780-9820
Skip Kutz
AFM Local 553, Saskatoon
Phone: (306) 934-2202