The Power of Cultural Events: Fostering Community Cohesion and Generating Social Value

Investing in cultural events is a powerful tool for promoting community cohesion and generating social value. These events, ranging from local festivals to art exhibitions, play a crucial role in bringing people together, celebrating diversity, and enhancing the social fabric of communities.

I have happy memories of our raising our kids in Toronto and participating in in the many cultural activities along the Harbour front, particularly during the long summer of sunny days. And at other times watching the various firework displays from our apartment window, or the various parades along Yonge Street. As a city proud of its diversity, events were both inspiring and good fun.

There are similar events in my hometown of Middlesbrough. But possibly my most profound experiences were my attendances at the town meal hosted my mima, Middlesbrough’s Institute of Modern Art. Sitting at the long benches eating a lunch alongside different people from the community felt transformational to me as I listened to various life experiences, challenges and aspirations as we ate. At the time I was a volounteer organizer for the The RSA (The royal society for arts, manufactures and commerce) , and my colleague Paul Ingram used to meet me at the lunch, knowing it would deepen my understanding of social needs and issues.

?Fast forward a little and I was fortunate to play a role in community development work in AlUla in northwestern Saudi Arabia. It is a unique place with a fascinating mountain and oasis culture, at the place where the incense trail and a strand of the silk roads intersect. The Royal Commission for AlUla have culture at the heart of both social and economic development and the tourist experience. It was the chance of a lifetime to participate and to talk to all sorts of people, locals, incomers, visitors about their experiences, their pride in AlUla and the place for AlUla in their hearts.

So, to draw some general lessons about the power of cultural events. Here are my reflections.

Promoting Community Cohesion

Bridging Social Gaps: Cultural events provide a platform for people from different backgrounds to come together, interact, and share experiences. This interaction helps to break down social barriers and foster mutual understanding and respect.

Celebrating Diversity: By showcasing various cultural traditions, these events highlight the richness of diversity within a community. This celebration of different cultures promotes inclusivity and a sense of belonging among community members.

Strengthening Social Networks: Participating in cultural events allows individuals to build and strengthen social networks. These connections are vital for creating a supportive and resilient community.

Generating Social Value

Enhancing Quality of Life: Cultural events contribute to the overall quality of life by providing opportunities for leisure, entertainment, and personal growth. They offer a break from the routine and a chance to engage in enriching experiences.

Economic Benefits: Investment in cultural events can also have significant economic benefits. These events attract visitors, boost local businesses, and create job opportunities, contributing to the economic vitality of the community.

Educational Opportunities: Cultural events often include educational components, such as workshops, lectures, and performances, that provide learning opportunities for all ages. These experiences can inspire creativity and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

Community Identity and Pride: Hosting cultural events helps to build a strong sense of community identity and pride. They create shared memories and traditions that strengthen the community’s collective identity.

I shouldn’t end without a special mention of the Auckland Project, regenerating Bishop Auckland. The quality, variety and scale of their cultural investments and interventions is awe inspiring. Organized by the sister charity 11 Arches, Kynren, the night show, alone brings together over 1,000 local people to share English and local history in an exhilarating entertainment. So, in conclusion, investing in cultural events is not just about entertainment; it’s about building stronger, more cohesive communities and generating lasting social value. By bringing people together, celebrating diversity, and enhancing the quality of life, cultural events play a vital role in the social and economic well-being of communities.

Maram Albalawi Raghad ALzhufi Maeen Alzhufi Sarah Alanazi Dr Charles Margerison Alan Higgins Caroline Murphy Reem Alamri

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