Dear Editor: I write with a heavy heart regarding the recent decision to suspend a major National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) grant to the Sitka Fine Arts Camp (SFAC). Such abrupt cuts undermine SFAC’s ability to provide high-quality arts instruction to our youth and denies them the benefit of all the transferable skills the arts have to offer. Both my boys attended camp and grew tremendously from taking theater improv classes, which gave them tools to overcome their fear of public speaking in classes and meetings.
We are not alone. Arts institutions like SFAC and others nationwide are grappling with the sudden loss of funding that directly impacts performances, camps, recitals, productions, storytelling and artwork created by artists of all ages and backgrounds. These contributions are vital as they profoundly enhance our understanding of society, culture, and ourselves.
Federal funding is more than symbolic—it provides essential resources allowing organizations to nurture emerging talent, mount significant performances, and serve communities meaningfully. The withdrawal of these funds creates severe financial strains, jeopardizing camps like ours and the long-term sustainability of arts organizations around the country.
Despite these significant challenges, we remain steadfastly committed to our mission to “build community by providing opportunities in arts, culture and recreation in an inclusive, educational and inspirational environment.” I urge all Alaskans to rally around SFAC, ensuring they continue their vital work providing invaluable arts education opportunities for Alaska’s youth. Your public engagement, advocacy, and financial support are crucial now more than ever. Let us affirm together that the arts are indispensable-not expendable —for our children’s sake and for our collective future.
If you would like to donate to SFAC, please contact if you would like to donate to SFAC, please visit our website at https://www.fineartscamp.org/donate.html or call (907) 747-3085.
Paul Cox, PhD
Board Member, SFAC
