Join Americans for the Arts for National Arts in Education Week
Stronger Together for Arts in Education
National Arts in Education Week, established by Congress in 2010, is a nationwide celebration recognizing the transformative power of arts learning. This year’s theme—Stronger Together for Arts in Education—underscores the power of collective action to show policymakers that arts education is essential, equitable, and deserves federal investment. Your voice matters!
The strength of our movement comes from acting together—educators, students, families, cultural organizations, and advocates raising their voices as one. Our message is clear: Every student deserves the opportunity to create, innovate, and thrive through the arts.
Why This Matters Now
“It is because arts education changed my life that I have dedicated mine to making sure young people have the same opportunities.”
—Jenn Hartmann Luck, Producing Artistic Director
Arts education is essential, equitable, and worth federal investment. Yet more than 2 million students still have no access to arts education—missing out on the creativity and critical thinking skills that 72% of business leaders say are essential when hiring. Students in the highest-poverty schools face the deepest access gaps.
This year, National Arts in Education Week comes at a critical moment. As Congress negotiates the FY26 budget, major decisions are on the table—including potential cuts to the National Endowment for the Arts, the largest national funder of arts education. At the same time, lawmakers will consider key legislation that expands arts access and equity: the Arts Education for All Act, the HBCU Arts Act, and Well-Rounded Education programs like Title IV-A and AAE grants.
Your voice is essential to protect these priorities—and this week is our platform to act.
Arts in Education Legislative Priorities
We’re stronger together to:
Advance arts equity with the Arts Education for All Act (H.R. 2485) — the first federal legislation to expand equitable access to arts learning
Support HBCUs through the HBCU Arts Act (H.R. 2664) — strengthening arts programs at historically Black colleges and universities
Protect Well-Rounded Education programs — including Title IV-A grants that fund arts, music, and creative learning in schools nationwide
Take Action This Week
Amplify the Message - Use this social media toolkit with ready-to-use posts and impactful graphics. Join the conversation with #ArtsEdWeek.
Share your story! If you were impacted by Arts Education, spread the word and voice your support for increased funding for the arts.
Contact Congress - This nationwide advocacy campaign comes at a critical moment as Congress faces the September 30 budget deadline and key decisions about federal arts education funding. Tell your representatives to stand strong for arts education and support our legislative priorities. Click here to take action, and find your Oregon House & Senate Representatives here.
Access Resources - Download one-pagers, fast facts, and advocacy materials to make your case locally.
When we are stronger together, lawmakers can’t ignore our call.
This doesn’t end with National Arts in Education Week—advocacy must continue year-round to ensure the arts remain essential for every student.
👉 Take action this #ArtsEdWeek: Tell Congress we’re stronger together for arts in education!