Art and social justice

Artistic production can be inspired by the urge to challenge fundamentally oppressive social processes. This year has seen art being used globally to fight for various social justice causes. In the United Arab Emirates, artists continued to protest the deplorable labour conditions of workers, directing their cultural power at an important cause (“Artists speak out against abhorrent labour practices in the UAE,” June 12, online). The everpresent question of ethical art sponsorship was once again brought up with the controversy of British Petroleum ( BP) donations to major British museums, which was seen as a way for the fossil fuel industry to showcase their powerful influence (“Art, brought to you by BP,” October 5, page 13).

Montreal and Mcgill were criticized for their lack of inclusivity and their inability to provide accessible spaces for cultural events. Several Queer Mcgill events were cancelled due to their location in inaccessible spaces; Expozine, an annual local zine fair, was also criticized for responding to accessibility needs badly and only when called upon (“Check your ability privelege,” November 30, page 26).

Powerful social justice movements definitely set us on the right track this year, while also demonstrating the structural problems of accessibility and inclusivity in our community.