ART AS RESPONSE: WHY YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS—NOW!
Dear Friends,

The Push...For the past few years, the Board & I have been monitoring the repeal of basic civil & human rights, the defunding of DEI programming, and efforts to erase the history of minority groups. As we anticipated, earlier this week, the Florida State Senate passed SB1134, which calls for the removal from office of local elected officials by the Governor, and/or for members of the public to sue municipalities for issuing DEI proclamations or funding DEI projects.

In times like this, silence is not an option. Across centuries and civilizations, art has been humanity’s first language and its most enduring record. Art has always played a vital role during times of social upheaval. When communities feel unseen, art gives them a voice. When history risks being forgotten, art bears witness. When division grows louder, art reminds us of our shared humanity. As an artist myself, I once had the privilege and, quite frankly, the “luxury” of creating art simply for art’s sake. That freedom is increasingly not an option today.

In 2026, GENVAS once more stands at the intersection of cultural arts, humanitarian advocacy, and civil and human rights. We are bringing these conversations into the public square not with anger or spectacle, but with dignity, intelligence, and artistic excellence.

The Pushback….

1.) Starting with our March 21 salon concert featuring the Phillip Dunlap Jazz Trio with special guest Leesa Richards, our events will include complimentary access to the public whenever possible. We believe the price of a ticket should never prevent someone who sincerely wishes to attend from experiencing the power of art, dialogue, and community. Accessibility is central to our mission. Art must remain open to everyone, especially in moments when connection and understanding are most needed.

2) In 2026 – 2027, we will launch a new DEI-driven series, Inherited Stories: Roots, Resilience & The American Stage. In collaboration with Pompano Beach Cultural Center (PBCC), Lauderhill Performing Arts Center (LPAC), the Miami Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Stonewall National Museum Archives & Library. GENVAS will be creating modern-day interpretations of classic Broadway musicals that have reflected, challenged, and shaped America’s understanding of race & identity from 1927 to the present. Using a “Greek Chorus-style” Narrator(s), current events reflective of the stories being told will be woven into the narrative. The productions will include Broadway & West End professional performers and will also incorporate local multiethnic artists in unconventional roles.

The Practicalities…

The past eighteen months have been extraordinarily challenging for many cultural organizations. Funding cycles closed unexpectedly. Grant applications paused. Timelines shifted beyond production windows. Like many arts organizations, we spent nearly two years waiting for opportunities to reopen. But we did not stand still. During that time, GENVAS developed an entirely new slate of original programming rooted in access, visibility, and cultural dialogue—work designed to respond directly to the lived realities of our time.

The Proposition….

We can allow fear and division to shrink the space for cultural expression and human dignity…OR we can stand together to protect it. Please consider making a gift today in any amount. Your donation ensures that:
• Civil and human rights conversations remain visible in our cultural life
• LGBTQ+ voices continue to be heard with dignity and respect
• Emerging artists and thinkers have a platform
• Cultural dialogue remains open and accessible to all
• Art continues to serve as a force for empathy, truth, and connection.
Your support ensures that art remains not a luxury for a few—but a shared necessity for all.
With gratitude
Willie
Donate Today — Every Contribution Matters