Mellon Foundation Throws $15 Million Lifeline To Humanities Councils
The Mellon Foundation announced on Tuesday that it would provide $15 million in emergency funding to the nation's humanities councils to help partially offest the impact of recent federal funding cuts. The funding will be given to all 56 state and jurisdictional humanities councils across the United States.
The one-time infusion of support comes about a month after the National Endowment for the Humanities, which has provided $65 million to the councils in annual support, constituting the lion's share of their operating money, canceled that funding for the Federation of State Humanities Councils, leaving many of its members in danger of financial ruin.
Of the total $15 million commitment, $2.8 million will be given as 'challenge grants 'of up to $50,000 for each council. Those funds are intended to encourage local funders and individual donors to make donations that will be matched, thus doubling the support for the work of the councils, a list of which can be found here. Each of the councils will also receive $200,000 for operational support, according to the New York Times.
The nation's humanities councils were established by Congress in 1971 as nonpartisan, 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations. Across the states, they support museums, historic presevation, literacy programs, book fairs, and a variety of other cultural and community programs.
'The places where American communities come together to read, learn, and engage with the humanities' vast and varied forms of knowledge and creativity are often those supported by these Councils,' said Elizabeth Alexander, president of the Mellon Foundation, in the foundation's announcement.
She said the viability of organizations like museums, libraries, historical societies was at stake in every single state along with other cultural activities that are 'a fundamental part of American civic life.' Alexander acknowledged that Mellon's grantmaking would not be able to make up for all of the cuts, but added "we stand side by side with the 56 Humanities Councils across the United States and remain deeply committed to the work they lead on behalf of us all.'
In its statement, the Mellon Foundation said, "without immediate intervention, many state councils face steep reductions—or even closure."
Phoebe Stein, president of the Federation of State Humanities Councils, agreed.'This is more than a grant—it's a lifeline for communities across the country who rely on their humanities councils' programs and grants to fill critical needs and enrich their lives. Mellon's support allows us to not only preserve this vital network—it helps ensure that everyday Americans can thrive through lifelong learning, connection, and understanding of one another.'
Stein claimed that 41% of state councils are "in dire need" of funding, according to NPR. "Some are looking at how they can retain staff. Others are thinking about repurposing programming," she said.
The councils play an important role for local economies. According to Mellon, by partnering with local organizations, 'they generate significant economic activity—leveraging $2 in private investment for every $1 of federal support' by attracting tourism and stimulating local business.
When NEH canceled most of its existing grants and dismissed the majority of its staff earlier in April, it said the agency would be directing its allocations to support President Trump's agenda. As part of that repurposing of funds, it has announced it would provide $17 million for the National Garden of American Heroes, a Trump priority that will feature sculptures of American heroes as a celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence.
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