Honouring Jennie Lee’s Vision: “Arts for Everyone, Everywhere”

Posted on 21 February 2025 • Around the OU, University news

Culture Secretary, Rt Hon Lisa Nandy MP, gave the inaugural Jennie Lee lecture– Arts for Everyone – on Thursday 21 February which marked the 60th anniversary of the first ever arts white paper. Below, Professor Josie Fraser, Interim Vice-Chancellor of The Open University, took the moment to reflect on this remarkable women and what she means to The Open University:

“As the 60th anniversary of Jennie Lee’s pioneering arts white paper is marked, it’s an ideal moment to reflect on her profound legacy and its ongoing impact on education and culture in the UK. Jennie’s belief in making the arts “for everyone, everywhere” was revolutionary in its day and remains just as powerful today.

“Jennie Lee’s work transcended politics, leaving an indelible mark on both the arts and education. As Minister for the Arts in the 1960s, she not only championed the arts but also played a pivotal role in the creation of The Open University. Her unwavering dedication to Harold Wilson’s vision of a “university of the air” was instrumental in overcoming opposition and building the foundation for what would become a transformative institution. Her leadership ensured that the OU became a beacon of accessible education for people from all walks of life, mirroring her passion to open the arts to all too.

“At The Open University, we continue to honour Jennie Lee’s legacy by making higher education accessible to all, regardless of background or circumstance. We warmly welcome the UK Government’s announcement of £270 million funding for the arts, to support hundreds of arts venues, museums, libraries and heritage buildings.

“The Open University remains committed to breaking down barriers and offering transformative educational opportunities for all, much like Jennie did for the arts. In celebrating her milestone anniversary, we see the wealth of OU arts qualifications and free courses now on offer to anyone, anywhere. We’ve come a long way, and with continued investment in the arts and education for people to access throughout life, we can ensure Jennie’s vision is not only preserved but actively realised today.”

Professor Josie Fraser, Interim Vice-Chancellor, The Open University

Photo: Photo of Jennie Lee dated 27 April 1973 – the Jennie Lee Library Foundation stone event. Copyright: The Open University