Bill > AJR237

Introduced Session

This resolution designates November of every year as "Arts and Health Month" in New Jersey with the goal of bringing health, humanities, and arts programming to underserved communities. Statistics show that roughly 28 percent of individuals living in New Jersey suffer from anxiety and depression related issues. The impact that exposure to the arts can have on an individual's mental well-being is extensive with 73 percent of individuals who engage in art related activities reporting a reduction in anxiety and depression. Despite this strong correlation, art disparities persist in our communities with Black and Hispanic students receiving less exposure to the arts compared to White students. The arts are defined as forms of creative expression that are used to evoke emotion and provoke thought. By bringing art programming to underserved communities, New Jersey's "Arts and Health Month" will help enhance the public's appreciation and understanding of the arts and the role they play in improving an individual's mental health. Recognizing November as "Arts and Health Month" will also help bring the arts to underserved communities ensuring that everyone has access to this vital mental health resource.

Committee Categories

Anthony Verrelli (D)*, 

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Tourism, Gaming and the Arts Committee (on 12/04/2023)

Official Document