WHEREAS, Many studies suggest that engaging in art and creative activities can have physiological effects that reduce stress and promote well-being [1] and Art has been a powerful tool for social activism; it challenges the status quo, giving voice to marginalized groups and sparking conversations about critical issues[2];
WHEREAS, Research from the National Alliance on Mental Illness indicates that 1 in 5 adults experience mental illness each year, emphasizing the necessity for dedicated spaces that prioritize mental health and community support [3];
WHEREAS, The American College Health Association (ACHA) published a 2022 study, which surveyed 54,000 undergraduate college students and these individuals were of different identities and backgrounds, which according to the study, about 77% of students experienced some kind of psychological distress, either moderate or severe and 54% experienced loneliness, and 30% had exhibited suicidal behavior [4];
WHEREAS, Positive interactions among community members through creative outlets can significantly facilitate the release of suppressed feelings, emotions, and thoughts, fostering healing and awareness and research indicates that creative expression is linked to improved mental health outcomes; a survey found that 85% of participants reported feeling more connected to others and more inspired to engage in creative activities, highlighting the essential role of the arts in fostering community resilience during crises.
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges encourage California Community colleges to establish a Creative Wellness Safe Space for Expression dedicated to fostering advocacy, social change, and community engagement through artistic expression and this space could serve as a nurturing environment for workshops, gatherings, and creative initiatives, providing community members with the resources and support needed to explore their creativity as an outlet of expression;
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges encourage colleges to collaborate with local artists and organizations to host advocacy sessions and impactful art campaigns, which will empower individuals to amplify marginalized voices and address pressing social issues through creative methods such, art talks, artistic speakers, art critics, in addition to performing arts, such as theater, spoken word, and visual arts;
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges encourage colleges to organize community forums and arts-based wellness workshops focused on mental health, mindfulness, and stress relief includingutilizing creative practices like painting, music, and movement to inspire collective action and foster open dialogue about mental health challenges; and
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges encourage colleges to actively seek grants and funding opportunities to support ongoing arts initiatives, ensuring sustainable access to artistic resources such as art supplies and wellness literature.
Citations:
[1]https://www.mqmentalhealth.org/the-art-of-destressing-how-creativity-cr…
[2] Art in Society
[3] https://www.nami.org/mhstats
[4] College Transitions
[5] https://www.mciinstitute.edu.au/wellbeing/creative-outlets
[6] https://www.instagram.com/reel/CA4L0V2pfH8/