

Julia E. Heath is a passionate advocate for independent music and nightlife, who currently serves as the Policy & Outreach Manager in the New Orleans Office of Nighttime Economy. She focuses on developing music policies and initiatives that enhance local nightlife, creating an inclusive environment that supports artists, venues, and audiences.
Julia's journey in live entertainment began in college and took a significant turn during the pandemic when she became actively involved in policy advocacy. As President of the National Independent Venue Association’s California Chapter, she played a crucial role in securing the largest investment in arts and culture in U.S. history: the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant, valued at $16.2 billion. Additionally, she successfully advocated for $150 million in state-level support for independent venues in 2020 and worked as part of a group to create a new kind of liquor license for all ages music venues in 2021, highlighting her commitment to the sector.
Now residing in New Orleans, Julia continues to champion the local music scene and actively engages as a patron, committed to fostering community-driven policies that uplift the live entertainment sector.