Political Quotes

“30 years ago today on September 29, 1995, I was proud to witness President Lyndon Johnson sign into law the National Foundation on the Arts and Humanities Act which established the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities. That historic occasion marked the beginning of a process to preserve America's cultural heritage and to broaden access to millions of our citizens in every corner of the country, Americans who would otherwise not be able to hear a symphony orchestra concert, see a dance or theater production, or experience a great museum exhibition. By any measure, the endowments have been a magnificent success. People are participating in our culture in record numbers. The endowments have made a difference in the lives of millions of children and their families. A cultural infrastructure has solidified and grown. In 1965, where there were 46 nonprofit theaters, there are over 425 today. The numbers of large orchestras has doubled, opera companies have increased 6-fold, and there are 10 times as many dance companies now as there were 30 years ago. In 1965, there were five State arts agencies; today every State has a vibrant public arts agency, and there are now community arts agencies in over 3,800 cities, counties and towns.”