Dear Arts Advocate, The Trump Administration has escalated its efforts to dismantle the agencies dedicated to preserving and supporting our nation’s arts and humanities. On May 2, the administration announced drastic funding reductions for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and plans to eliminate NEA funding entirely in the upcoming federal budget. This follows a pattern of disruption previously seen at the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the Institute for Museum and Library Services (IMLS), including deep staffing cuts and abrupt termination of grant contracts, which have left the cultural community frustrated and confused.
In Pennsylvania, the NEA awarded over $24 million in grants funding to nonprofit cultural organizations between 2020 and 2024, with a significant share supporting organizations in Greater Philadelphia. Now, many of these local organizations are receiving terse, unexplained notices of grant recissions, upending programming and operations with no warning. "Late Friday, the Wilma learned that our largest NEA grant in years ($25,000) was withdrawn, leaving us to replace funds already spent. The arts are a common good, and our production of "The Half-God of Rainfall" fostered deep connection with our community. Now more than ever, we must protect spaces for open dialogue and free expression." -Leigh Goldenberg, Managing Director, The Wilma Theater What You Should Do If Your Federal Grant Has Been Terminated
The National Council of Nonprofits has outlined initial steps that your nonprofit organization should consider if you have been notified that your federal grant or contract has been terminated: - Review the terms and conditions of your grants and contracts.
- Understand what federal regulations govern the termination.
- Make sure you know what closeout costs you are entitled to.
- Check to see if any conditions have been imposed that impact how you can access funds.
- Make sure you understand the agency’s appeals process and pay attention to – and follow – the timelines and outlined required steps.
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The National Council of Nonprofit’s notice advises that the appropriate and most effective steps for your organization will depend upon the specifics of your grant or contract and the specific federal agency that provided the funding. The Council also notes that the checklist is provided for informational purposes only and is neither intended to be nor should be construed as legal or tax advice. You are strongly advised to consult an attorney for the latest and most accurate information. | |
The Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance strongly condemns these reckless actions. Stand with us – and with arts and humanities leaders, culture workers, and stakeholders nationwide – to demand the reinstatement of these critical agencies and the vital reinvestment they provide to our communities. - Alert Your Representatives: Notify them if a cultural organization in their district has received a termination notice.
- Sound the Alarm: Use social media and word of mouth to raise awareness among the public.
- Keep the Pressure On: Call or email your congressional representative, urging them to restore full funding for arts and culture.
- Stay Informed: Follow the Cultural Alliance for updates on pending lawsuits, legislative action, and advocacy resources.
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Support the Cultural Alliance The Cultural Alliance is a tireless advocate for arts and culture. By supporting the Cultural Alliance, you are taking action to protect our creative community. | |
Please note: Our office has moved a few floors up in the Philadelphia Building (1315 Walnut Street). Please note our new mailing address: Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance The Philadelphia Building 1315 Walnut Street, Suite 1101 (previously suite 732) Philadelphia, PA 19107 |
