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National Arts Leaders Convene at AFTACON Amidst Draconian Federal Cuts as Data Proves The Arts Are A “Need to Have” Not “Nice to Have”
Multi-platinum Singer/Songwriter Ben Folds to Headline Americans for the Arts’ Public Celebration in Cincinnati
WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 28, 2025) — As threats to arts funding intensify nationwide, hundreds of arts leaders will gather in Cincinnati this June to protect and advance a sector that drives $1.2 trillion in economic activity and accounts for 4.2% of U.S. GDP—surpassing transportation, construction, and agriculture. The Americans for the Arts Annual Convention (AFTACON), June 11-14, brings together cultural leaders, advocates, and organizations at a crucial moment when the arts face unprecedented challenges, including widespread National Endowment for the Arts grant cancellations.
“This isn’t just about protecting cultural experiences—it’s about protecting a vital economic nonprofit arts engine that employs 2.6 million Americans and generates $29.1 billion in government revenue,” says Erin Harkey, Americans for the Arts’ new CEO. “When someone calls the arts ‘nice to have,’ we can point to hard data showing they’re absolutely essential to America’s economic vitality.”
Recent research from Americans for the Arts’ Americans Speak Out About the Arts public opinion study—one of the largest studies of its kind ever conducted—also demonstrates the arts’ deep personal impact. The study, conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs on behalf of AFTA, found that 71% of Americans experience pure pleasure through arts and culture, 69% say the arts lift them beyond everyday experiences, and 79% believe arts and culture are important to their community’s businesses, economy, and local jobs.
“The arts are woven into the fabric of our daily lives—from the music in our morning workouts, to the artisan jewelry we wear, to the arts lessons our children take,” Harkey notes. “When we see how deeply the arts touch every aspect of our lives, we understand why our advocacy work is critical to ensuring artists, arts educators, and our arts sector as a whole continue to thrive for generations to come.”
AFTACON kicks off with Party at the Banks, a free public celebration presented by Americans for the Arts and ArtsWave in Cincinnati—a city whose vibrant arts scene and strategic cultural investments make it an ideal gathering point for national arts leaders. The riverfront celebration features an unforgettable performance by renowned artist Ben Folds. A longtime arts advocate, Folds serves on the Arts Action Fund Board and Americans for the Arts’ Artists Committee.
The evening showcases Cincinnati’s dynamic cultural landscape through signature light installations by BLINK, curated fashion by Project Runway finalist Asha Ama, and a spectacular drone show over the Ohio River—demonstrating how arts investments transform public spaces and drive economic vitality. This impact is measurable: nationally, a single arts event attendee spends an average of $38.46 in the community beyond their ticket price, with 30% traveling from other counties to attend.
AFTACON’s dynamic program tackles urgent issues facing the sector:
- Legal challenges threatening arts organizations
- Federal arts education policy developments
- Library advocacy amid censorship concerns
- Building sustainable community partnerships
- Responding to arts and humanities funding losses
The conference features a Pay-What-You-Can registration model to ensure accessibility for all arts leaders. Registration closes May 30.
For more information about AFTACON 2025 or to register, visit AFTACON.org.
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About Americans for the Arts
Americans for the Arts (AFTA) is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization empowering Local Arts Agencies (LAAs) to become powerful community catalysts—driving both economic growth and social connection. Through its national network, trusted research, and advocacy resources, AFTA transforms local arts and culture victories into industry-wide advancement. Its commitment to professional development and connection opportunities ignites innovation across the arts sector. As a 501(c)(3) organization, AFTA focuses on research, education, and capacity-building, while its advocacy affiliate, the Arts Action Fund, advances direct political advocacy as a 501(c)(4). Discover the full scope of AFTA’s transformative work, and learn about the grassroots political impact of its affiliated Arts Action Fund, at www.AmericansForTheArts.org.
About ArtsWave
ArtsWave fuels the Cincinnati region’s arts, supporting 150+ organizations, projects and artists each year. Since 1927, it has been the primary way the region funds the arts, raising millions annually from tens of thousands of individuals, businesses and foundations to drive a more vibrant economy and connected community. Through the Blueprint for Collective Action, ArtsWave strategically makes investments that maximize the arts’ impact across the region. To learn more and give to the 2025 community campaign, visit artswave.org.