The Mountaineer

May 28, 2025

A coalition of arts leaders and advocates from Haywood County attended the annual NC Arts Day conference in Raleigh last month to lend their voice to arts advocacy.

The conference brought together arts organizations, educators, and supporters to speak with one voice on behalf of the arts. Attendees emphasized a unified message to legislators: continued support and investment in the arts is vital for our schools, communities and economy.

“Part of our job as arts leaders is to make sure our representatives hear what people want and need,” said Tonya Harwood, executive director of the Haywood County Arts Council. “It’s not just about advocating for funding — it’s about celebrating how the arts transform lives across North Carolina.”

Others representing Haywood County included Martha Brown, director of Voices in the Laurel; and Marna Dodson, a dedicated Haywood County music educator. Harwood also served as Haywood County’s Captain, coordinating meetings with legislators and representing local arts interests throughout the event.

“Gathering together with artists and creatives from across the state really emphasized to me how support for comprehensive arts education in schools influences a flourishing community culture of engagement,” said Dodson.

Brown said the conference was an inspiration.

“I took away a lot of tools to amplify my voice for arts advocacy, both for the schools and the non-profit sectors,” she said.