COVID-19 and Emergency Preparedness

Since 2005, the Mississippi Arts Commission has been working in arts recovery and emergency preparedness in an effort to support and assist our arts constituents before, during and after times of disaster. We are here to help you or your local arts entity in any way possible.

We encourage you to share information about action plans and recovery resources with those you serve. Below are links to organizations that provide assistance and support for artists and arts organizations in times of disaster.

For craft artists: www.craftemergency.org and www.studioprotector.org

For arts organizations: www.artsready.org

COVID-19 – Guidance & Resources

As coronavirus COVID-19 spreads across the U.S., we recognize that this health concern presents special challenges for the arts sector, especially those hosting mass gatherings, such as performances, festivals, screenings, and the like.

If out of an abundance of caution you have chosen to alter, postpone, or cancel your planned grant activities in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, complete this COVID-19  MAC Grant Change Form. Submit the completed form to Kristen Brandt, kbrandt@arts.ms.gov or mail the form to MAC offices at 501 North West Street Suite 1101A, Jackson, MS 39201.

We would like to take this opportunity to direct our friends in the arts to a few valuable resources. Americans for the Arts has released information and tips to help the arts sector prepare. Americans for the Arts is also collecting data and impact stories through this survey. ArtsReady has also shared information for event venues.

The Mississippi State Department of Health is also providing resources for the general public via its website as well as a call center dedicated to coronavirus inquiries. Call 1-877-978-6453 with any questions you may have.

Below you will find links to documents and resources that may be helpful to you for emergency preparedness and recovery.

Emergency Preparedness Plan & Disaster Response

Below are links to resources that we hope will assist you as you create an emergency preparedness plan and as you organize in the aftermath of a disaster.

MAC’s Emergency Preparedness Plan (PDF)

National Coalition for Arts’ Preparedness and Emergency Response Fact Sheet

National Coalition for Arts Preparedness and Emergency Response Essential Guidelines for Arts Responders Organizing in the Aftermath of Disaster

Crisis Communications Resources

In our increasingly connected world, it should come as no surprise that arts organizations, like all other entities, are vulnerable to public controversies and crises. Several arts partners have assembled helpful plans to guide arts organizations through these times without creating lasting damage.

National Assembly of State Arts Agencies: Communicating about Arts Controversies (PDF)

Oklahoma Arts Council: Crisis Communications Planning

Other local, regional and national resources