Member Exclusive: Behind-the-Scenes Look at the 2025 Session

After one of the most unpredictable and high-stakes legislative sessions in recent history, Minnesota’s arts community came out strong as ever.

Join MCA for a fast-paced, insider look at what really happened at the Capitol—and what it means for you.

Wednesday, July 23 at 11:00 AM

Live Zoom Webinar

In this exclusive member briefing, you’ll learn:

• How we protected the full $83 million+ of Legacy funding for the arts
• What dangerous proposals we blocked behind the scenes
• Why General Fund support for the arts actually grew
• What shifts at the Capitol could impact funding in 2026
• How advocacy efforts directly benefited your organization

This is your chance to go beyond the headlines and get the full story. If you care about public funding for the arts, you need to be in the room.

We’ll break down the wins, the challenges, and the road ahead—so you’re informed, prepared, and ready for what’s next.

Federal Arts Update: What’s Happening at the NEA—and What We’re Watching

Minnesota Citizens for the Arts is closely monitoring fast-moving developments in federal arts funding in partnership with our national allies at Americans for the Arts. Together, we’re keeping a close eye on major changes at the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) that could impact arts funding across the country—including here in Minnesota.

In May, the NEA unexpectedly rescinded several FY2025 grant awards, citing a shift toward federal initiatives like the U.S. Semiquincentennial, veterans programs, and AI training. These cancellations coincided with President Trump’s proposed “skinny budget,” which recommends eliminating funding for the NEA, NEH, IMLS, and other cultural agencies. Americans for the Arts and the Arts Action Fund are actively lobbying Congress to block these cuts, and MCA is aligned in that fight.

The NEA is also facing legal challenges tied to new restrictions on “gender ideology” in its grant policies. A coalition of arts organizations has filed suit, arguing the restrictions violate First and Fifth Amendment protections. While a federal judge noted the rule likely infringes on free speech, no injunction was issued because the NEA temporarily rescinded the rule amid the case.

Meanwhile, leadership at the NEA is in flux. President Trump has nominated Mary Anne Carter to return as Chair, and the agency is undergoing deep staffing cuts as part of broader federal downsizing.

MCA is watching these developments closely and will continue to work with Americans for the Arts to ensure Minnesota’s arts community stays informed and protected.
Read the full update here