The ongoing government shutdown has drawn attention from the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), which represents over 800,000 federal workers. In a recent statement, union president Everett Kelley emphasized the urgency of resolving the standoff between political parties, calling for immediate action to restore operations and reinstate full pay for employees. Kelley stated, “It’s time to pass a clean continuing resolution and end this shutdown today. No half measures, and no gamesmanship.” His comments come as many government workers miss their first full paycheck due to the ongoing impasse.
Kelley’s remarks highlight the significant impact of the shutdown on federal employees and their families. The AFGE holds substantial political influence, particularly among Democratic lawmakers, and Kelley underscored that there are no winners in a government shutdown.
Boston Arts Academy Honors Artists at Annual Fundraiser
In a separate event celebrating the arts, the Boston Arts Academy Foundation hosted its annual awards ceremony and fundraiser at MGM Music Hall in Fenway last week. The event gathered artists, philanthropists, and civic leaders, showcasing performances that highlighted the talent of students and professionals alike. Funds raised during the evening will support the city’s public high school dedicated to the arts.
This year’s awards program featured two notable recipients: Johnny Gill, a member of the iconic group New Edition, and Donnie Wahlberg of the New Kids on the Block. Both artists, who gained fame during the peak of Boston’s boy band era, took part in a celebratory atmosphere that emphasized community and artistic expression.
A standout moment of the evening was Gill’s performance of the R&B classic “Can You Stand the Rain,” which he delivered alongside seven students from the Boston Arts Academy. These students, hailing from neighborhoods such as Dorchester, Roxbury, Mattapan, and Hyde Park, embody the school’s mission to empower young artists from diverse backgrounds.
Denella Clark, president and CEO of the Boston Arts Academy Foundation, remarked on the significance of the event, stating, “The power of this night lies in what our students show us — that art is not just a subject, it’s a lifeline.” Clark emphasized that investing in arts education equates to investing in the future leaders and innovators of Boston.
As political discussions continue regarding the government shutdown, events like the Boston Arts Academy’s fundraiser remind communities of the vital role that arts play in fostering creativity and connection among youth. Both stories reflect the pressing need for resolution in governance and the celebration of cultural contributions within society.
