NEA Reverses its Decision to Fund Arts Organizations: What It Means for the Ojai Storytelling Festival and Why We’re Not Giving Up
- Kara Lakes
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
For years, the Ojai Storytelling Festival has received support from state and regional agencies that are funded in part by the National Endowment for the Arts. Through partners like the California Arts Council and Creative West, NEA funding has helped us reach schools, expand access to the arts, and bring diverse performers and voices to our stage.
This year was different. For the first time, we were selected to receive direct funding from the NEA. After submitting a competitive application, we were honored and thrilled to learn that the NEA had recommended the 2025 Ojai Storytelling Festival for funding. The NEA reviewed our application and initially saw the value in what we offer. But after a suspiciously long waiting period, we were informed that the recommendation was being withdrawn. The reason given was that they are making a shift in funding priorities to better align with the President’s agenda as stated below.
The NEA is now prioritizing projects that elevate the Nation’s HBCUs and Hispanic Serving Institutions, celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence, foster AI competency, empower houses of worship to serve communities, assist with disaster recovery, foster skilled trade jobs, make America healthy again, support the military and veterans, support Tribal communities, make the District of Columbia safe and beautiful, and support the economic development of Asian American communities.
This decision came as a shock to say the least. The demographics of our region align closely with many of the NEA’s new stated priorities. Ventura County is nearly 50% Hispanic or Latino- the schools we work with exceed 80% Hispanic or Latino, approximately 30% of residents are disabled in some way, and nearly 10% live below the poverty line. The festival has always made an effort to reflect and uplift these voices. Our programming includes performers of diverse backgrounds, and we partner with local schools and community groups that serve low-income and underserved populations.
We understand that funding priorities change, but not after funding has been awarded, and this loss is deeply felt. For smaller arts organizations like ours, every dollar matters. NEA funding doesn't just support performances. It supports educational workshops, school visits, accessibility efforts, community building, and cultural exchange. It allows us to offer reduced or free admission to students and seniors. It helps us tell the stories that often go unheard.
How we are responding
We have submitted an official appeal to the NEA and are doing everything we can to reverse the decision. At the same time, we are moving forward with the festival. We are adjusting our plans, tightening our budget, and looking for new funding partners. Our team is more committed than ever to keeping the festival accessible, inclusive, and impactful.
What you can do
If you believe in what the Ojai Storytelling Festival stands for, we invite you to get involved.
Donate
Every monetary contribution makes a difference. You can donate here: https://www.zeffy.com/fundraising/its-our-30th-birthday
Donate the use of your guest house to take the place of hotel rooms for performers.
Gift cards for food and supplies for the storytellers during the festival.
Spread the word
Share this story on social media and with friends who care about the arts.
Write to and call your senators and representatives.
Sponsor a show or event
Join us
Attend this year’s festival and bring someone new with you!
We are deeply grateful to the artists, educators, supporters and audience members who have helped make this festival a beloved part of our community. Your support has carried us this far. With your continued help, we will keep telling stories that inspire, connect, and empower.
The Ojai Storytelling Festival is not going anywhere. The stories will go on.
コメント