Arts Profile
Fresnans for a People’s Budget presents We Live the Budget, a community-centered art showcase taking place on May 30 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at St. Dulce in Van Ness Village.
The event is centered on conversations the coalition has been having around policing, militarized police gear, community resources, the city budget and visions for Fresno’s future.
“I’ve heard Brandi Nuse-Villegas say ‘We live the budget everyday,’” said Arieana, member of Fresnan’s for a People’s Budget (FPB), a coalition dedicated to reallocating police funds to community care. “I think in the line items and meetings and motions and numbers it can get lost that it’s a document of our priorities and who gets left out.”
Featured artists include BlaqLeoGoddess, Brandi Nuse-Villegas and De La Muerto. The exhibition will feature visual and performance art, spoken word, speeches from community organizers, an interactive installation and a presentation from members of FPB. Light refreshments will be provided, alongside a resource table, raffle opportunities and space to connect with community members and builders.
“As an indigenous person, it is vital to continuously maintain community gatherings that focus on sharing perspective of the terrorism that steals our community’s resources, educate those of manipulative propaganda and inspire folks of all ages to unsubscribe from the unbeknown racism that is supporting ‘law enforcement.’” artist De La Muerto (they/them) noted.
The coalition hopes to create a space where folks can gather and be inspired to reflect on the question: What would Fresno look like if we invested $300,920,800 into the needs of the people, not the police.
“In conversations about policing and resources, people often get swept up in the philosophical differences on the issue. I hope this art helps ground us in what our tax dollars are used for locally and the lives who have been lost and impacted as a result,” said Arieana.
Community submissions will be accepted until May 15. For more information and to submit artwork, contact fresnansforapeoplesbudget@gmail.com and follow @fresnans_for_a_peoples_budget on Instagram.
