Munira Mirza argues for post-Brexit arts internationalism beyond Europe

On March 29, at the No Boundaries 2017 conference in Manchester, Munira Mirza, who served as London’s deputy mayor for culture from 2008 to 2016, addressed the arts landscape following Brexit. She argued against negative perspectives, suggesting that Brexit could foster a vibrant global partnership. Mirza highlighted that numerous Leave supporters, including one million ethnic minority voters, favor free trade and strong ties with Europe. She criticized the EU for its protectionist stance, which she believes restricts trade and migration. Mirza urged the arts community to promote easier travel and continued involvement in Erasmus while reallocating UK funding. She also pointed out potential for cultural exports to India, China, and the USA, advocating for equal treatment of EU and non-EU immigrants and a broader international focus in the arts.