Urgent Call to Action: Restore Arts and Culture Funding in Michigan
Your Voice Can Help Save the Arts for Our Communities

Michigan Arts and Culture Funding at Risk

At the end of August, the Michigan House of Representatives passed its version of the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, proposing the elimination of all state funding for arts and culture. If enacted, this budget would remove over $10 million in annual support—dealing a devastating blow to arts organizations across the state.

At Crooked Tree Arts Center, this means at least $40,000 in immediate cuts, threatening vital programs such as our free bus program for school tours, community partnerships, and much-needed repairs to our historic building. The impact goes far beyond our organization; museums, theaters, dance companies, festivals, and music programs that enrich Michigan’s communities and economy are all at risk.

The state budget still must pass the Senate and be signed by Governor Whitmer by October 1st. There is still time to act—and your voice is crucial.

How You Can Help Restore Funding for the Arts

Here are a few simple ways you can make a difference and keep the arts alive in Michigan:

1. Call or email your State Senator and Representative — urge them to reinstate arts and culture funding in the budget. Find your contacts here. The Cultural Advocacy Network provides these templates you can use:
   1. Phone Script
   2. Email template
2. Contact Governor Whitmer’s office — remind her that the arts are essential to Michigan’s future, as she proclaimed just a month ago!
3. Spread the word — Share on social media using the hashtag #FundMIArtsAndCulture, talk to your friends, family, and neighbors about what is happening.
4. Join the Rally — on September 16 at the Capitol, organizations and individuals from across the state will gather to show that the arts are worth fighting for.

Why Arts and Culture Matter

Arts and culture are the heart of vibrant communities. They inspire creativity, foster learning, drive local economies, and strengthen connections between people. Losing state funding would severely limit access to the arts, diminish educational opportunities for youth, and threaten the survival of historic institutions.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

Your advocacy can help ensure Michigan remains a place where creativity and culture thrive. By contacting your legislators, the Governor, and spreading the word, you are supporting not just Crooked Tree Arts Center, but every organization and artist who enriches our state. Let’s work together to restore arts funding and keep Michigan’s creative spirit alive!

With gratitude,
 

Angela Morris
President, Crooked Tree Arts Center

Kristi Wodek
Vice President, Crooked Tree Arts Center.