The Arts ARE Essential!
When budgets get tight, arts funding is often the first to face cuts—but the value of the arts in shaping identity, building community, and inspiring the next generation should never be underestimated. This week, I had the pleasure of welcoming a group of creatives from Creative West – Regional Art Organization to the District Office while they were on Saipan for the 39th Annual Flame Tree Festival. We had a great conversation about the role of Congress in supporting the arts and how creative expression helps define both regional and national identity. I’m especially grateful for their willingness to serve as judges for the 2025 Congressional Art Competition and for their plans to return and host workshops in the CNMI. Thank you Christian, Sandy, Anika, and Dave for your time, insight, and creative spirit.