The Power of the Arts has brought people together since the earliest of times. Whether you think of Caves Paintings, Euripides, Shakespeare, The Renaissance Masters, The Bronte Sisters, Bob Dylan, ABBA, Bob Marley, Nirvana, Tupac or Banksy; I think everyone has, at some point, had their perceptions challenged by the creativity of the Arts.
Eurovision has been one such influence on me.
I’ve loved this celebration of Creativity, Diversity and Inclusion for as long as I can remember. I think back to my teenage years when my late friend Andrew Maxwell and I would sing, laugh and (here’s where you realise I am a real geek!) score each act on our notepads!
I draw such energy from the extravagant performances, the smiles from the comedic elements, and the inspiration of the incredible costumes. I’ll always try and sing along in foreign languages if the hook is catchy enough and, all too often, I’ll have joined Terry in a tipple. That results in me strutting my greatest Mick Jagger-esque swagger to the likes of Dana International or Air Guitar-ing along to Hard Rock Hallelujah.
But alongside the fun of the night, for the week after, my head is full of thoughts which challenge my perceptions on very, very important topics. Diversity and Inclusion gets intricate and acute internal examination, which I can carry in the fundamental principles of my being. Because of the joy which I associate with the event, my thoughts are incredibly positive and my mindset is perfect for realigning towards the most inclusive viewpoint. That’s why I love Art and The Arts so much.
So when I talked to many of you on the doorstep about my views on Equality, I can truly state that I do so having given the topic a tremendous amount of loving thought over decades.
I align tightly to the notion of Equality of Opportunity for All and, beyond that, allow Excellence to Flourish.
It may only be my first week as a District Councillor, but I have already taken the opportunity to question the Council on whether its procedures are inclusive enough to all people, including those with Anxiety related Mental Health issues. As you would expect, the District Council is doing a very good job in this area. What was really great for me to witness was the Officer’s willingness to see if they could do more and be more aware.
So Measham, I hope you enjoy tonight. I certainly expect to be dancing, singing, smiling & laughing and I hope you will too.
Viva La Diva!!