The Cultural Institutions Group (CIG) is a coalition of institutions that provide cultural and educational resources to the public of New York City, and are subsidized by the city government. Private institutions, in turn, develop specialized cultural collections and services that are available to the general public. Cultivating Culture is a platform that shares the stories of these institutions through original images and objects, many of which have never been publicly exhibited before. These artifacts include founding charters, tickets, ephemera related to opening night performances, and other items that bring to life the history and contemporary richness of the city's cultural resources.
The foundation for public-private partnerships between New York City and its 34 cultural institutions was established in the 19th century. This framework has helped to solidify New York City's status as a world-class cultural capital. In 1975, legislation was passed to create a Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) for the city, which began operating in 1976. In 1960, after a strike against eight of the institutions, the institutions met in an informal organization that became known as the Cultural Institutions Group or CIG. This group is responsible for providing accessible cultural services to all New Yorkers.
The labor agreement that was finally reached involved tripartite bargaining and required institutions and New York City to negotiate (and the city to pay) wage and benefit increases, while working conditions were negotiated between the union and individual organizations. The mission of the Department of Cultural Affairs is to foster dynamic public partnerships with private cultural organizations. This mission has its most dramatic expression in its relationship with the CIG. Mayor Bill de Blasio, the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, and the New York City Council have all provided generous support for this group. At present, there are 34 cultural institutions across all five boroughs of New York City. These institutions are supported by public-private partnerships that have been established over many years.
The Museum is grateful for this support, which helps to ensure that all New Yorkers have access to these valuable cultural resources.
