Dear Editor
The Canadian Taxpayers Federation’s claim that SK Arts grants are “wasteful spending” is political theatre, not serious fiscal analysis. It mocks artists and ignores the real return on public investment in the arts.
SK Arts-funded organizations generate over $92 million in annual economic output, with $74 million of that impact in Saskatchewan alone. Arts and culture contribute over $1 billion to our GDP and support nearly 13,000 jobs.
Public arts funding is an investment. It strengthens rural and urban communities, boosts tourism, supports mental health and education, and fosters civic engagement. Saskatchewan artists are teachers, neighbours, entrepreneurs, and culture keepers. Their work brings people together, creates jobs, and tells the stories that connect us.
Contrary to the CTF’s narrative, the sector is far from dependent on provincial funds—only 12% of revenue comes from the province, with the rest from federal, municipal, private, and earned sources. Public investment through SK Arts drives further investment and expands the reach of every dollar.
Adjusted for inflation, SK Arts funding has dropped sharply since 2009. Restoring it to sustainable levels would cost just 0.03% of Saskatchewan’s annual budget — hardly “waste.”
Mocking YouTube views misses the point: live concerts, festivals, school workshops, and community arts programs are where the arts meet people. Public funding keeps these events affordable and accessible to all.
Arts funding isn’t a luxury. It’s a priority worth defending—for our economy, our communities, and our shared cultural life.
