Recently, we saw a major victory as the United States Representatives voted to maintain funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), which wouldn't have been possible without the relentless advocacy from arts supporters nationwide.
However, our work is far from over.
Congress is now considering severe cuts to arts education funding, with House Appropriations Committee's FY25 proposals including a 25% reduction in Title I funds, the complete elimination of Title II, and the total removal of the Assistance for Arts Education (AAE) program. Their justification? They believe that only subjects like reading, writing, and math are essential.
While we know these subjects are important, we also know the truth: arts education is just as indispensable. It fosters creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of the world, and we cannot let these crucial programs be dismantled.
Join the VoterVoice campaign and tell Congress why arts education matters to YOU. The new budget draft will be submitted on August 1, so it's crucial to make your voice heard as soon as possible.
Your support can make a difference. Let's ensure that Congress understands the value of arts education and rejects these harmful cuts. Together, we can protect the opportunities that every child deserves.
Thank you for standing up for the future of arts education!
------------------------------
Dr. Jennifer Katona
Executive Director
Educational Theatre Association
OH
------------------------------