Protect the National Endowment for the Arts
Grantmakers in the Arts has said before, all the wealthiest philanthropic institutions and individuals combined cannot make up for government investment in the creative self-expression of our nation’s residents. This is especially true in rural and remote areas where public investment is the primary — if not the only — means of support of our ability to express ourselves creatively and enrich our hearts, minds and communities with that creative self-expression. We call on our elected representatives to restore public support for the arts and humanities for all our nation’s residents.
“The cancellation of National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) grants, while not unexpected, marks the next step in a deeply troubling pattern of government disinvestment in the arts. This ongoing pattern of disregard not only threatens vital funding for organizations and communities nationwide—it challenges the very infrastructure that supports cultural expression, economic opportunity, and community well-being. We must respond strategically and in solidarity to protect what we’ve built and ensure the arts remain a national priority.
The NEA is essential. The NEA reaches every Congressional district, supporting programs that reflect the full spectrum of American communities—from rural arts initiatives and veterans’ healing programs to youth education, local festivals, and the preservation of our cultural heritage. These cancellations take away what brings people together, weaken the local programs that help communities thrive, and go against the values that hold us together as a country.” (Americans for the Arts)
If your organization has been affected by the recent NEA grant cancellations, we strongly urge you to submit an appeal by the official deadline, which was in the email grantees received from the NEA. Note that depending on your grant category, deadlines vary with some as early as Friday, May 9.
TAKE ACTION NOW
Visit the official resource hub to access upcoming programming, social media toolkits, and a list of immediate steps that you and your organization can take to advance the mission.
Emergency Guidance on NEA Grant Cancellations Webinar
Join Americans for the Arts and the Arts Action Fund as they navigate the unfortunate cancellation of grants at the National Endowment for the Arts. Organizations that have received terminations or rescinded awards will discuss their situation. Learn from experts on how to submit an appeal, next steps after your appeal, and how to advocate to your Member of Congress during this pivotal time.
Wednesday, May 7, 2025 | 4:00pm ET / 1:00pm PT | Virtual Zoom Gathering
