Arts, Heritage, and Science Week 2026 | Spaceworks Tacoma

Author: Jennifer English | Program Director, Spaceworks Tacoma

Last week, I had the privilege of stepping out of my usual role at Spaceworks Tacoma and into the halls of our state capital. I joined a coalition of passionate advocates for Arts, Heritage, and Science Week 2026, spending the day on February 4th representing Legislative District 27 and Pierce County.

It was inspiring to stand alongside fellow champions of the creative sector, including partners from ArtsWA, Hilltop Artists, and Arts Impact. Together, we met with legislators to make one thing clear: the arts are not just an amenity; they are a vital driver of small business, tourism, and community identity in Washington state.

While celebrating the creativity that defines our region, we focused on two critical legislative issues that will impact the creative economy here in Pierce County and beyond:

1. Protecting Non-Profits and Presenters (ESSB 5814)

We advocated for clarity regarding ESSB 5814, a bill concerning sales tax on live events. It is crucial that we define which activities are not considered taxable live presentations. Getting this definition right ensures that non-profit arts organizations and presenters can continue to operate without being saddled with unintended tax burdens, keeping our cultural spaces accessible and sustainable.

2. Defending ArtsWA Grant Funding

We urged lawmakers to protect ArtsWA's grant funding. Currently, there is a proposal to cut $600,000 from their grant programs - nearly one-third of their entire capacity. These are the funds that flow directly back into our communities, supporting local creative programs, partnerships, and the organizations that make Pierce County a vibrant place to live and work. A cut of this size would significantly destabilize the ecosystem that relies on this support.

This experience was a powerful reminder that the work of Spaceworks extends far beyond Tacoma. Whether we are supporting small businesses, installing public art, or showing up in Olympia, our mission is to fight for the resources that help our communities thrive, inspire creativity, and fuel economic growth.
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I’m proud to have brought the voice of LD 27 to the conversation, ensuring our legislators understand that investing in the arts is investing in the economic and cultural future of our state.

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