As conversations about Alberta separation gain traction, many in the arts and culture sector have been quick to dismiss the movement as fringe. That may be comforting. It may even be partly true.

For decades, arts leaders have spoken about the transformative power of culture. We celebrate the arts as a force for social change and inclusion. We tell governments, donors and taxpayers that arts and culture help define who we are.

Well, if that is true, then the growing sense of alienation felt by many Albertans should concern us. And it begs me to ask: where were we?

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Too often, the response within our sector has been to simply shrug. To dismiss those expressing frustration as uninformed, angry or politically motivated. Yet, while we have been patting ourselves on the back for our progressive values, a growing number of Albertans have come to view the arts sector as elitist and increasingly out of touch.

That perception........

© Calgary Herald