The Mountaineer

May 18, 2024

Tonya Harwood, executive director of the Haywood County Arts Council, will serve as county captain for Haywood County for Arts Day in Raleigh May 21-22.

Harwood will be championing the cause of public funding and policy for the arts and arts education as part of N.C.’s annual Conference of Arts and Action. Arts Day, organized by Arts North Carolina, brings together advocates, artists and arts leaders from across the state to engage with legislators and decision-makers in the General Assembly.

“Arts Day is a vital opportunity for us to demonstrate the value of the arts to our communities and to advocate for the resources needed to support their growth and sustainability,” said Harwood.

During her time in Raleigh, Harwood will hold meetings with N.C. Sen. Ralph Hise, R-Mitchell, and N.C. Rep. Mark Pless, R-Bethel, to discuss the critical need for continued investment in the arts. These meetings will provide an opportunity for Harwood to convey the impact of the arts on Haywood County and to advocate for policies that prioritize arts education and accessibility.

“I am honored to represent Haywood County in this capacity and look forward to engaging with our legislators to ensure that the arts remain a priority in North Carolina,” Harwood said.

For information, visit www.artsnc.org/arts-day/arts-day-2024.