California's arts and culture sector faces significant challenges as over a hundred executive orders issued since January threaten vital funding and support for the arts and humanities. Key institutions such as the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), and the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) are at risk of losing their funding, which could have dire consequences for creative expression across the nation.

During a recent joint hearing of the California State Assembly's Joint Committee on Arts and the Assembly Arts, Entertainment, Sports, and Tourism Committee, experts highlighted the potential impact of these cuts. The proposed federal budget for fiscal year 2026 suggests eliminating funding for the NEA, NEH, and IMLS entirely, which would strip essential resources from cultural institutions that contribute approximately $1.2 trillion to the U.S. economy, representing 4% of the GDP.

The meeting underscored the urgency of these issues, with representatives from Americans for the Arts sharing findings from a recent survey of arts organizations. Many organizations reported that federal grants are being rescinded mid-project, forcing them to make immediate budget cuts and lay off staff. This instability not only affects the organizations directly but also threatens local and state agencies that rely on federal funding to amplify their resources.

Moreover, the hearing revealed that organizations are being pressured to remove diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) language from their proposals to secure funding. This shift could disproportionately impact programs serving Title 1 schools, rural communities, and LGBTQ+ audiences, further narrowing the scope of artistic representation and access.

As the arts community grapples with these challenges, the implications of the proposed cuts extend beyond funding; they threaten the very fabric of cultural expression and the diverse narratives that artists strive to share. The discussions at the hearing emphasized the need for advocacy and support to protect these vital institutions and ensure that the arts continue to thrive in California and across the nation.