New Books in Critical Theory antonio c. cuyler, "Achieving Creative Justice in the U.S. Creative Sector" (Routledge, 2025)
Jun 10, 2025
Antonio C. Cuyler, a Professor of Music specializing in Entrepreneurship & Leadership at the University of Michigan, delves into the concept of creative justice and its necessity in today's cultural landscape. He discusses the systemic challenges marginalized communities face in the arts and the urgent need for organizations to evolve practices for equity. Cuyler shares strategies for fostering diversity and inclusion, emphasizing that access to creative expression is a fundamental right. He underscores the transformative power of art amidst societal issues, advocating for continuous dialogue on racial justice.
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Writing Motivated by Social Crisis
- Antonio C. Cuyler wrote his book as a response to George Floyd's murder and its impact on cultural organizations.
- The moment pushed him to consult on transforming cultural institutions' ethics and relationships with communities.
Rejecting Objectivity for Subjectivity
- Cuyler rejects objectivity, viewing it as tied to white supremacist culture valuing logic over human emotions.
- He embraces subjective experience shaped by his identities, offering a nuanced perspective on race, gender, and politics.
Transformative Power of Arts
- Arts and culture uniquely dismantle human defenses to expose vulnerability and humanity.
- Everyone deserves access as creative expression fosters love and reveals authentic selves.
