COUNTERPUNCH LETTERS : Reviving LATC

For a revived Los Angeles Theatre Center to function, there must be a substantive reason why L.A. City Council members should support its long-term funding (“LATC Needs a Multiethnic Approach,” July 13). Is promoting culturally diverse audiences to explore culturally diverse viewpoints, which the previous LATC bred, a sufficiently urgent reason for its resurrection? I think yes.

We need a focused site, a point of assembly, where L.A.’s many-cultured, no longer monocultural, future is explored. We need our minds challenged, our sensibilities shaken and our values tested. Thus, Rebuild L.A. is a potential partner with the city. Speaking of jobs, there is work!

The demise of LATC should have sent us all to the table to examine what role the arts do play in society. They are magnets that focus the discourse about a changing America. Civic leaders need to understand that the arts are a public good, as necessary as safety, education and health care.

DOLO BROOKING

Director and Professor

Arts Administration Program

CSU Dominguez Hills