At a time when this country needs to be pulling together, when we have seen the power of our creativity and art to connect us, I am dismayed to see headlines like “‘Festival of Brexit’: first events for divisive £120m project announced” (24 March).
I appreciate that the seemingly divisive tone of this headline might appeal to some readers intent on using this to suit their own understandable political objectives, many of which I am sympathetic to, but it would appear to contradict your previous editorial stance that was tentatively supportive and saw the good opportunities that Festival UK 2022 may offer (Editorial, 11 September 2020).
We can wallow in negativity and fan the flames of hatred and division, or seize this moment to make sure, as your colleagues have said, the festival is “used wisely” to “heal”.
I do hope that you will start practising what you preach – that change is possible, that hope is power – because I and many other creative carers like me hope it is a resounding success in sticking this country, our communities and our children back together, to start building all our futures.
Nick Corston
CEO, STEAM Co
