Save the NEH, Save our public systems

As YOUR constituent, I am writing to urgently request that you support the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) in the face of a direct attack by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). DOGE is rescinding grants that have already been awarded, including operating support grants for the state and jurisdictional humanities councils. This is money that has been appropriated by Congress for the states, and DOGE is taking it against the express will of Congress. Additionally, DOGE is threatening to cut the agency’s grant programs and reduce the staff by as much as 70%—an action that would surely prohibit the agency from fulfilling its statutory obligations. The NEH supports communities throughout the United States. NEH grants support K-12 education and lifelong learning, provide programs for Veterans, foster community dialogue, preserve local and national history, and strengthen local tourism economies. NEH-funded organizations—libraries, museums, historical sites, educational institutions, and other cultural institutions—are pillars of their communities. And the NEH’s partnership with the state and jurisdictional humanities councils helps the agency reach every congressional district. The NEH strengthens communities and civic life, and NEH staff are vital partners in this work, helping grantees navigate government processes and ensuring that federal dollars are well spent. The NEH is tasked by Congress to provide humanities access to all Americans, and Congress has appropriated funds for that purpose. As we look to the future, I ask that you ensure that the agency continues to function, fulfilling its congressional mandate. As you've seemingly already agreed to other cuts across various other groups including full removal and dismantle of some, it should come as a huge shock that the cuts continue. Even now you've said that the previous cuts were in alignment with the system's actions to make our government work efficiently. How in the world is removing these grants more efficient? It seems to me YOU are for actively hurting and hindering citizens. Please prove me wrong and do something. NOW!