As a stage and gathering place for our community, KPC wants to help inform our patrons about the state of the arts in both Washington, and throughout the country. The ‘Access for All’ Initiative is something to be aware of as it will affect our arts community and we want to let you know more about it.

4Culture and Cultural Access Washington are working in tandem to increase the capacity of community based-organizations with a focus in the arts, science, and cultural sectors through the newly-minted ‘Access for All’ Initiative.

In early March 2017, the ‘Access for All’ Initiative was announced for the August 2017 primary ballot by King County Executive, Dow Constantine. ‘Access for All’ has other King County Leaders addressing the significance of equity and access for children and families to experience art, science and cultural heritage throughout King County, especially for under-served populations.  Chair of the King County Council, Joe McDermott states, “Art and culture bring communities together… expanding access for all residence is an important and collective effort”.

What does the ‘Access for All’ Initiative entail?  According to the King County Council, ‘Access for All’ will dramatically increase funding for arts, science and heritage institutions. Increase in funding will help cultural entities provide learning experiences in every county and school district, both in and out of the classroom; in addition, the initiative will provide students of limited means with free tickets and transportation to arts, science and cultural events. The ‘Access for All’ initiative will also support the organizations with arts, science and heritage emphasis to promote multi-generational access by allowing free admission and membership to families and seniors with lower or limited income.

Why is this important to us? KPC is an arts and cultural community gathering place for the Kirkland community. Our season is comprised of colorful performances with multi-generational and multicultural appeal.  KPC not only seeks to promote arts, entertainment, and educational programming in the Greater Seattle area but it is important to us that all members within the surrounding communities have access to our events.

Join us in staying informed with community-based efforts to promote access in the arts! For more information on the initiative, follow 4Culture and Cultural Access Washington throughout their #AccessForAll campaign.