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Mellon Provides Emergency Funding to Humanities Councils

On April 29, the Mellon Foundation awarded $15 million in emergency funding to the Federation of State Humanities Councils (FSHC). Mass Humanities is deeply grateful for this historic support of the network of state and jurisdictional humanities councils that serve communities in every corner of the nation.  

Mass Humanities will receive $200,000 of that gift — plus, an additional $50,000 challenge grant if we can raise the same amount in donations from individuals, businesses, and philanthropies in Massachusetts. 

This funding is critical as we stabilize our operations following the sudden termination of our grants from the National Endowment for the Humanities. The humanities are essential tools for preserving our democracy. Your contribution today will allow us to meet this critical moment in our history.  

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“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, Mellon Foundation. “At stake are both the operational integrity of organizations like museums, libraries, historical societies in every single state, as well as the mechanisms to participate in the cultural dynamism and exchange that is a fundamental part of American civic life. While Mellon’s grantmaking will not cover the entirety of these cuts, 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.” 

“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,” said Phoebe Stein, President of the Federation of State Humanities Councils. “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.” 

“We believe that humanities councils are essential pillars of cultural life in their states and territories, serving local communities, building programs and partnerships, and bringing people together to find common ground,” said Executive Director of Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities Miranda Restovic and Executive Director of Mass Humanities Brian Boyles. “Through this visionary award, the Mellon Foundation is providing critical support to preserve jobs and protect infrastructure as we confront the emergencies created by the termination of our NEH funding for 2025.”   

Thank you for your steadfast support of the humanities.

Two women view the Voices and Votes exhibit at Mohawk Trail Regional School.
Mohawk Trail Regional School hosts “Voices and Votes: Democracy in America”, the traveling exhibition curated by the Smithsonian, through May 29.

   

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