Grace Biltz | NEA and NEH

President Trump's recent budget proposal threatens the existence of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). The budget eliminated all funding for these two federal agencies. Advocacy groups, individuals and art institutions are fighting back and are trying to remind others of the value of the arts in our daily lives. “We see our funding actively making a difference with individuals of all ages in thousands of communities, large, small, urban and rural, and in every Congressional District in the nation,” said Jane Chu, NEA chairperson.
 Major metropolitan areas may not need the support of organizations like the NEA because they have vibrant cultural institutions. However, more rural communities need this support in order to promote art among their citizens. 

There is hope however. Widespread public support and support within Congress could help save the funding for the NEA and the NEH. Advocates remain hopeful because Congress will need to approve the final budget. Everyone can help by contacting their local representatives and voicing their support for these two federal agencies. 

"The art are not a frill. The arts are a response to our individuality and our nature, and help to shape our identity. What is there that can transcend deep difference and stubborn divisions? The arts. They have a wonderful universality. Art has the potential to unify. It can speak in many languages without a translator. The arts do not discriminate. The art lift us up." 
--Barbara Jordan, Former Congresswoman 
Barbara Jordan said it right. The arts a powerful part of our society and culture and need to be supported. I hope we all do our part by reaching out to our representatives to help support these vital federal agencies. 


Source: 
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/arts-advocates-denounce-proposed-elimination-of-the-nea-and-neh_us_58ca93dfe4b00705db4c88a2?9xexw5mcsw03eg66r