1. United States
2. Mich.
3. Letter

I am writing with deep concern about the Michigan House’s recently passed budget proposal, which completely eliminates funding for the Michigan Arts and Culture Council (MACC). MACC provides more than $11 million annually in grants that support arts and culture organizations in all 83 counties—organizations that educate our children, employ thousands of workers, preserve our history, and enrich the quality of life for every community. Art has, quite literally, saved my life. As a person with mental health struggles, like so many of my fellow Americans, local art in my state has brought me such joy. I love hearing live music, reading books by MI authors, and attending live theater. Eliminating MACC funding would be devastating: Thousands of jobs would be lost. Local economies that rely on arts and culture for tourism and small business activity would suffer. Communities across Michigan would lose access to essential cultural programs and services. As your constituent, I strongly urge you to: Stand against any proposal to eliminate MACC funding. Support full and continued investment in Michigan’s creative economy and cultural life. Our communities depend on the arts—not only for education and inspiration, but also for economic stability and civic vitality. I am also a mother, and I want my children to grow up in a state where the arts are fully funded. Please ensure that MACC remains fully funded in the final state budget. Thank you for your service and for supporting Michigan’s vibrant creative sector.