The artist's voice: Developing safeguards for combating challenges to artistic freedom

It is important that educators and arts organization use adequate procedures when combating challenges to freedom of artistic expression. During the late 1980s to middle 1990s, several organizations existed to support the art community with vital information on developing policies to protect organizations from censorship attempts. For various reasons almost all of these organizations now cease to exist.;The purpose of this study was to determine if there is a need in the arts and education community for guidance on creating protective policies and action plans. This study also sought to answer the following questions: (1) What are the effects of censorship and challenges to an organization or individual? (2) What types of safeguards can an organization put into place to protect against potential threats of censorship? (3) Would the mid-west benefit from the development of a regional agency devoted to the training, advocacy, and legal support in case of such challenges?;To answer these questions research was conducted through surveys as well as a case study of a recent occurrence of censorship. By evaluating both primary research sources, it is concluded that specific steps can be taken by administration to minimize or eliminate the threat of censorship and protect the future of the organization. The study concludes with "Best Practice" recommendations as well as a proposal for the development of a supporting regional agency.