On July 15, arts and culture leaders from across the country gathered in Washington, D.C. to advocate for full funding of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). Despite these efforts, Congress is now considering significant cuts that would have lasting effects on every state—including Michigan.
What’s Happening?
The House Appropriations Committee has proposed a 35% cut to both the NEA and NEH, reducing their budgets from $207 million to $135 million each. These reductions would not only impact national grantmaking but also threaten the federal-state partnerships that fuel thousands of community-level programs.
Why This Matters for Michigan:
-
Roughly 40% of NEA funding supports state and regional arts agencies, including the Michigan Arts and Culture Council (MACC).
-
The NEH provides core funding to Michigan Humanities, which works with 120+ local partners annually.
-
Without federal support, these organizations could be forced to scale back or suspend grants, programs, and services that connect Michiganders through the arts, history, and shared storytelling.
What You Can Do:
We need your voice. Congress needs to hear from constituents who understand the importance of the arts and humanities in Michigan communities—especially in rural and underserved areas.
️ Use The American For the Arts Toolkit to Help:
-
Contact your U.S. Representative and ask them to fully fund the NEA and NEH at no less than $207 million each.
-
Share how this funding has impacted your organization, students, or community.
-
Use storytelling and data to drive home why creative infrastructure is essential for Michigan’s economy and quality of life.
Download the Federal Appropriations Toolkit (AFTA)
Find Your U.S. Representative
Now is the time to speak up. If these cuts move forward, every grant, program, and initiative that depends on federal funding could be at risk.
Let's make sure Michigan’s creative voices are heard loud and clear.
Lauren Ward
Director, Cultural Advocacy Network of Michigan
