Cultural advocacy network of michigan

Dear Advocates,

Yesterday, the Michigan House of Representatives passed a budget that completely eliminates funding for arts and culture. This devastating proposal would decimate Michigan’s creative sector, threatening thousands of jobs, weakening local economies, and stripping communities of the programs and cultural resources they rely on.

The House budget is over $5 billion smaller than the version passed by the Senate and includes dangerous cuts—phantom jobs and the zeroing out of Michigan Arts and Culture Council (MACC) grants.

If this budget moves forward, the impact will be catastrophic:

• Thousands of jobs lost across the state.
• Economic instability for communities where arts and culture drive tourism, small businesses, and local investment.
• Loss of access to programs that support education, historic preservation, creative therapies, and cultural institutions statewide.

Why This Matters Now

The House, Senate, and Governor must agree on a budget before October 1 to avoid a government shutdown. Negotiations are happening right now, and this is our moment to act.

Take Action Today

We need every advocate to send a loud, clear message that cutting arts and culture is unacceptable. Here’s what you can do:

• Contact Your Legislators (House, Senate, AND Governor Whitmer’s Office):
• Call, email, and schedule meetings with your representatives.
• Use our email template and phone script to make it easy.
• Share your story—explain how these cuts would affect your organization, your community, and Michigan’s future.
• Find your Legislators
• Governor's Office Contact: Jen Flood | State Budget Office Director| Phone: 517-335-3420 | Email: FloodJ3@michigan.gov

Spread the Word

• Forward this alert to colleagues, board members, and community partners.
• Share on social media using the hashtag #FundMIArtsAndCulture.
• Be Persistent: Legislators need to hear from us every week until the budget is finalized.
• Keep up the pressure—arts and culture funding must be restored.

This is an emergency. If the House budget passes as written, Michigan’s creative sector will face devastation. We must stand together to ensure arts and culture funding is protected.

In Solidarity,

Lauren Ward

Director, Cultural Advocacy Network