One thing that connects us all – IFWT blogger, the talent we blog about, and the readers of the blog – are the arts. We’ve all found ourselves reviewing rap lyrics to learn a song, tapping out feet to catch a particular beat, etc. Surely, without the arts, some individuals would not have made it [Joell Ortiz hashtag plug], but it’s what makes happy.
First lady, Michelle Obama and and performer Janelle Monae stressed the importance of arts education in a child’s life while they attended the Grammy Museum’s Jane Ortner Education Award Luncheon at Club Nokia in the downtown L.A. Live complex. Boy, did they make plenty of points.
Check out more down below.
For her efforts in educating and mentoring young children, Monae was honored at the ceremony. “I hope we have more mentors than superstars. I’m happy to have mentors in Stevie Wonder and Prince,” she says. “Keep educating through music.”
Mrs. Obama spoke on facts such as, six million American school children have no music or arts classes in the schools.
“…you all have an abundance of riches here in Los Angeles and yes, we do we have a pretty big platform at the White House. But let’s not forget there are symphonies and theaters and museums and with every exhibit and performance folks should be asking themselves how can we get those kids in there? How can we get the artists and performers to connect with young people in those communities? In other words, every arts organization in the country should be embracing the mission of the Grammy Museum.”
Well said ladies.
Photo Credit: Damian Dovarganes – AP Photo via Charlotte Observer
Spotted: Billboard
