New Budget Proposal Would Eliminate Cultural Agencies in 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 19, 2019

CONTACT: Johanna Tschebull
202.833.1717 x106

Yesterday, the Trump administration released its budget proposal for fiscal year 2020, in which it proposes shutting down the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities by providing only $29 million in funding, stating that the administration “does not consider NEA activities to be core Federal responsibilities.”

This is the third year in a row that the administration has proposed eliminating the cultural agencies. It’s also the third year in a row that a bipartisan Congress has demonstrated its support for the agencies by increasing their budgets. The recently passed federal budget gave the agencies a $2 million increase for FY2019, bringing the funding of both to $155 million.

In addition to the NEA and NEH, the administration proposes:

  • Eliminating the Assistance for Arts Education program at the U.S. Department of Education;
  • Eliminating the Institute of Museum and Library Services;
  • Eliminating the Corporation for Public Broadcasting;
  • and Reducing funding for cultural exchanges at the State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs by almost $400 million. 

Dance/USA recently served as a National Partner for Arts Advocacy Day, when more than 500 advocates visited Washington, D.C. and many of you sent e-mails urging Congress to fund the NEA at $167.5 million for FY2020

Continue to raise your voice and tell lawmakers about the important role of the arts in your community. 

ACT NOW!

Thank you for your ongoing advocacy on behalf of dance and the performing arts!

About Dance/USA
Propelled by our belief that dance can inspire a more just and humane world, Dance/USA will amplify the power of dance to inform and inspire a nation where creativity and the field thrive. Dance/USA is the national service organization for the professional dance field. Established in 1982, Dance/USA champions an inclusive and equitable dance field by leading, convening, advocating, and supporting individuals and organizations. Dance/USA’s core programs are focused in the areas of engagement, advocacy, research, and preservation. Learn more at danceusa.org.

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