During our 12-episode limited series Public Comments, we’re building an artist-centered narrative about the Title VI complaint process that got artists their money back here in Nashville, while exposing discriminatory funding practices. In this ninth episode, our guest is Nicole Williams, a freelance writer who's worked for years to demystify the Metro government. We discuss the concerns that prompted Nicole’s public comments at Metro Arts meetings, the independence of the commission, ethics complaints, issues regarding removing commissioners, the working group, the mechanics of transparency, democracy, and the confluence of information-sharing and advocacy.

This show is an archive and roadmap as we continue advocating for the equitable arts funding our city deserves. Support provided by Columbia University’s Incite Institute Assembling Voices fellowship.

Hosted by Lydia Yousief and Christine Hall. Intro: Sangeetha Ekambaram, Cortney Warner, Kenny Rae, Alayna Renae, and Tim Northern. An Arts Equity Nashville production