We, the undersigned, request the 2026 Chicago Park District (CPD) budget reflect more arts and crafts classes throughout our city public parks. Programs for all ages are much needed; especially adult creative arts. These offerings enrich the lives of the participants and the community, and we wish to urge the CPD administration to invest more in this kind of arts instruction.

Suggested arts and crafts classes are jewelry making, stained glass, ceramics, textile arts, mosaics, sculpture, music, acting, photography and dance. We know that interests in some of these disciplines are in great demand where waiting lists are now necessary.

We also petition to have arts and crafts distributed more equitably throughout the city. Since 2018 we have seen a decrease of 30% in arts instructors hired at the CPD.

Please consider hiring community artists to partner with the CPD to create and offer these various programs. Park Advisory Councils can be available in surveying local interests to assist in the hiring of qualified instructors in these areas of interests.