1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

Write I am writing as a constituent and a passionate supporter of the arts to express my strong support for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). I urge you to protect and continue funding this vital agency that has had a transformative impact on communities across our state and the nation. The arts are not a luxury—they are a powerful driver of economic development, education, and community well-being. Through its grants and programs, the NEA brings the arts to schools, rural towns, and underserved populations, ensuring that creative expression and cultural opportunity are accessible to all Americans. These investments nurture local talent, attract tourism, strengthen small businesses, and foster a sense of identity and pride. In Asheville, the NEA has directly supported our community through grants to organizations like ArtsAVL. For instance, ArtsAVL received a $75,000 grant to fund over 40 local nonprofit arts organizations, helping to replace expiring American Rescue Plan dollars . Additionally, the Asheville Art Museum was awarded a grant of $34,040 for its Summer Art Camp, providing valuable arts education to our youth . Programs like these build social cohesion and offer hope and inspiration, especially in challenging times. Furthermore, the NEA has supported public broadcasting initiatives. For example, it awarded $84,500 to American Documentary to support the PBS series POV and partner with national and local community organizations . Such funding ensures that high-quality, educational, and culturally enriching content remains accessible to the public. As Congress considers budget appropriations, I respectfully ask that you support full funding for the National Endowment for the Arts. Continued investment in the arts is an investment in the health, education, and vibrancy of our communities.