We need your help. You may have heard the news that federal funding for the National Endowment for the Humanities and National Endowment for the Arts will be eliminated. Arizona Humanities depends on federal funding to bring incredible programs to you. We use federal funds to host lively book and film discussions, and distribute thousands of books to children. Our talented speakers travel the state and tell the stories of the southwest, and the rich history of the people that have settled here. Last year speakers traveled to 55 towns in 13 counties, reaching over 14,000 people. These poets, musicians, artists and authors teach us about the world, social issues and current events.
Our programs and grants to libraries and museums reach every corner of the state, and touch the lives of children and families, veterans, teachers and students, and many more people who are inspired to learn about the world, explore other cultures, and share ideas. We even bring world class Smithsonian exhibitions to rural towns in Arizona. The humanities are important because they help us think, create, and work together. Arizona Humanities has brought people together for over 40 years. We need your help now to secure the future.
#1
Reach out to your congressional representatives: https://www.govtrack.us/congress/members/map
We encourage you to call and speak directly to elected leaders. Phone calls make the most impact. Not sure what to say? Here are a few examples:
“Please protect funding for the National Endowment for the Humanities. I want to tell you how important Arizona Humanities is to my district. Arizona Humanities awards grants, and creates programs that have made my community better. NEH funds are only a small part of the federal budget, but they make a huge difference in my community.” Â
Give a personal example. Did you receive a grant, attend an AZ Speaks program, FRANK Talks, book festival, museum exhibit or children’s program? Please share.
“Arizona Humanities contributes to the quality of life in our state and to the economy. Arizona non-profits generate 8% of the state’s revenue, and are Arizona’s 5th largest non-government employer. That’s 350,000 jobs and over 22 billion in goods and services. Please keep funding the National Endowment for the Humanities.”
#2
Visit nhalliance.org/take_action1 to add your name and message in support of the NEH.
#3
Stay in touch with us – follow us on social media @AZhumanities or drop us a note at info@azhumanities.org.
Please voice your support for the humanities in Arizona and across the country. Thank you!
Sincerely,
Brenda Thomson
Executive Director