Governor Proclaims Youth Art Month

WHEREAS, Youth Art Month is an annual celebration that recognizes the value of visual art education in a student's overall success and encourages support for quality art programs in our schools; and

WHEREAS, experience in the visual arts cultivates valuable skills, such as imagination, creative expression, effective collaboration, innovation, resourcefulness, and adaptability; and

WHEREAS, arts education plays a vital role in the comprehensive development of students, fostering critical thinking, cultural awareness, and a sense of identity, and acknowledging that a well-rounded education includes the enrichment provided by creative disciplines within the curriculum of our public schools; and

WHEREAS, the 2023 - 2024 theme for Youth Art Month is Dream in Art; and

WHEREAS, in support of Youth Art Month, each state coordinates a contest in which students design a flag based on the annual theme; the winning designs are made into flags, which are displayed and recognized at the National Art Education Association Convention; and

WHEREAS, Youth Art Month aims to increase community understanding and interest in art and art education through involvement in art exhibits, workshops, and other creative ventures; and

WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina commends all those who advocate for youth art and educators throughout our state and encourages people to support art programs in our schools;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim March, 2024, as “YOUTH ART MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.