So much to do in Grand Forks!

North Dakota has had the ability to provide several different arts and cultural programs for children, students, and adults of all ages. Most of this programming has been thanks to funding from the North Dakota Council of the Arts and their primary funder, the National Endowment of the Arts. Unfortunately, a few weeks ago elected members of congress called for the defunding of the National Endowments for the Arts. This defunding doesn’t only impact the arts organizations, but thousands of educational programs for children, arts programs for communities, and artists that serve to stimulate the North Dakota economy.

This is where your actions and words, your passion for the arts, and your commitment to your communities can truly play a part! All you have to do is send a letter and let our North Dakota senators know that we need this funding, and without it over 5.7 million jobs in the USA will be compromised. Click on the link below to take action on this important arts issue:

I’ll send a letter!

Established in 1965 by Congress, the National Endowment for the Arts has awarded more than $4 billion to support artistic excellence, creativity, and innovation for the benefit of individuals and communities. The NEA extends its work through partnerships with state arts agencies like the North Dakota Council of the Arts. The NDCA released that their fall grant round awarded $90,138.25 to their different grant programs. These dollars affect schools across the state, the Turtle Mountain Tribal Art Association, The Little Star Theatre, CHARISM in Fargo, Pride Manchester House of Bismarck, the Grand Cities Children’s Choir, Nordic Arts Alliance, and so many others. (For a complete list visit: www.nd.gov/arts)

Taking funding away from the National Endowment of the Arts doesn’t just amount to losing jobs, resources, and funding. It means less finger-painting being brought home at the end of the day, fewer art and cultural presentations regarding your heritage, and millions of people without a job.

Please take a moment of your time (It really only takes a moment) to click on this link and send a letter to your legislators. Help us make an impact!

Click this link to send a letter: http://capwiz.com/artsusa/utr/2/?a=13209311&i=100045457&c=

Photos taken at the Grand Cities Art Fest by Shawna Noel