In a powerful plea for support, arts leaders at the California State Assembly's Joint Hearing on Arts and Entertainment highlighted the urgent need for state intervention to protect the arts community amid rising costs and funding cuts. The meeting, held on May 14, 2025, revealed the profound impact of national economic pressures, including increased tariffs and shifting donor priorities, which have left many arts organizations struggling to survive.

One prominent voice, representing a local arts institution, emphasized the critical role of the arts in fostering community and social justice. "Now is the time to double down on what we believe," they stated, urging California to act as a safety net for arts institutions committed to inclusion and creativity. The speaker underscored that the upcoming World Cup and Olympics present a unique opportunity for California to showcase its cultural leadership.

Documentary filmmaker Jacob Kornbluth shared his personal struggle after losing $800,000 in funding due to canceled grants. He described the ripple effect of this loss on his team and the broader creative community, highlighting the fragile nature of the documentary sector in California. "This is not just an impact on me. It's an impact on that whole community," he said, stressing the importance of sustaining artistic endeavors in the state.

The discussions at the hearing painted a stark picture of an arts ecosystem at risk, with calls for immediate action to ensure that artists can continue to thrive and contribute to California's cultural landscape. As the state prepares for major global events, the message was clear: investing in the arts is essential for building a more inclusive and vibrant future.