Trump Budget Escalates Cuts to Arts, Humanities

The Trump administration's latest budget proposal again seeks to eliminate federal funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), and other cultural agencies, aiming to reduce government size and spending. In a significant escalation, the NEA has already started withdrawing previously awarded grants, such as a $25,000 grant to Portland Playhouse, causing sudden funding gaps for arts organizations nationwide. Reports indicate some NEA applicants have been required to pledge not to promote diversity, equity, or inclusion. These actions have provoked widespread disappointment from arts administrators. Despite Congress historically protecting these agencies with bipartisan support, the administration has shown greater determination and initial success in curtailing their programs. The potential loss of arts and humanities funding raises concerns about the future of community cultural initiatives across the country.