Two performing arts festivals in Florida have expressed their willingness to give up their grants in order to help restore the $32 million in state funding that was recently vetoed by Governor Ron DeSantis. The governor's reason for the veto was cited as the festivals being 'a sexual festival,' a description that the festival leaders have refuted as inaccurate.
The Orlando Fringe and Tampa Fringe leaders emphasized the importance of state funding for arts groups, highlighting the critical roles these organizations play in their communities. The Orlando festival was set to receive $70,500, while the Tampa festival was in line for $7,500 before the veto.
In an open letter to the governor, the festival leaders expressed their concern for the citizens of Florida and urged him to reconsider his decision. Governor DeSantis, in response to the letter, reiterated his stance on the veto, emphasizing his duty to protect taxpayers' money.
The veto has sparked criticism from critics who view it as part of Governor DeSantis' broader culture wars agenda. This move comes amidst other controversial actions, such as supporting laws that restrict discussions on sexual orientation and gender identity in classrooms.
Arts and cultural groups across Florida have been facing financial challenges following the veto, with many organizations struggling to make up for the lost funding. This marks the first time in recent memory that a Florida governor has eliminated all grant funding for arts and culture.
Florida's arts and cultural industry is a significant contributor to the state's economy, generating $5.7 billion in economic activity annually. Nonprofit arts and culture organizations alone contribute $2.9 billion to the economy and support over 91,000 full-time jobs.
As arts organizations continue to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the loss of state funding poses a significant setback for the sector. Leaders in the arts community are calling for a reconsideration of the veto in order to support the vital role that arts and culture play in Florida's economy and communities.
