Many cities in Michigan have been “building economic development strategies based on the strengths of vibrant cultural activities.” But Detroit has decided to close the Department of Arts, Culture and Tourism in an attempt to reduce the city’s $300-million budget shortfall. “We all understand that Detroit’s policymakers have more demands than they have dollars, but arts and culture pays for itself many times over. And if a stronger economy is the destination we seek, arts and culture in Detroit is one of the best ways to get there.”