[João Francisco, Unsplash]

The Ella Project To Host New Orleans Mayoral Forum On Cultural Policy

06:00 September 02, 2025
By: Frederick Quinn

Mayoral Forum on Cultural Policy

On September 9, candidates in the upcoming mayoral election will come together for a Mayoral Forum on Cultural Policy thanks to The Ella Project.

The event will offer an opportunity for the candidates to share their visions for the future of arts and culture in the Big Easy.

[The Ella Project, Website]

The forum will offer insight into a variety of aspects in music and culture, as well as feature prominent figures in the business. Moderators will include John Stanton, Editor of Gambit; Don Bartholomew, musician and producer; and Ashley Keaton, co-founder of The Ella Project.

Discussion topics include:

  • Effectiveness of Nighttime Economy Offices.
  • Removing barriers to permitting.
  • Support for street parades and neighborhood festivals as an economic driver.
  • Examples of work to support emerging local talent through professional development and live performance spaces with friendly policies.
  • Opportunities for collaboration with other cities and regions regarding sharing resources, including economic analysis, policy development and innovative programming.
  • Opportunities surrounding export programs for music.
  • Effective use of 311 and proactive solutions to neighbor/venue disputes.
  • Workable tax incentives for small venues who have regular live music performances.

The event will take place on Tuesday, September 9, from 2-3:30 p.m. at the New Orleans Jazz Museum at 400 Esplanade Ave.

The event is free and open to the public, and will be livestreamed on The Ella Project Facebook Page.

The Ella Project

The Ella Project is an organization that supports the arts and culture of New Orleans by providing pro-bono legal support, arts business services, and advocacy for the city's culture. Keeping its commitment to preserve the culture of New Orleans, The Ella Project works with local musicians, artists, and cultural figures in the community, fostering support through its many resources. While services do include business and legal advice, artists also receive mentorship and can participate in programs that expand their knowledge and network.

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