Funding Cuts Threaten Chicago's Vibrant Arts Scene

In April 2025, Chicago's arts community faced unprecedented financial challenges as both federal and local funding streams were drastically reduced, leading to the closure of longstanding institutions like Links Hall and jeopardizing numerous cultural programs citywide.

The Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) implemented sweeping cuts to the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), resulting in the termination of over 1,000 grants nationwide. Illinois Humanities, the state's partner for the NEH, received notice that its operating grant had been terminated, representing a $1 million shortfall—approximately one-third of its budget. This loss threatens free community reading programs, history and heritage initiatives, and funding for rural museums and historical societies across Illinois.

Simultaneously, Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) reduced its support for arts organizations. The suspension of the "Chicago Presents" grant program and alleged budget and staff mismanagement led over 200 artists and arts groups to sign a letter to Mayor Brandon Johnson criticizing Commissioner Clinée Hedspeth.

One major casualty of these funding cuts is Links Hall, a performance art collective and venue that announced its closure in June 2025. The organization cited the loss of a crucial DCASE CityArts grant, once valued between $80,000 and $120,000, as the primary reason for its shutdown. Despite these challenges, Links Hall continued programming through June 30, 2025.

The funding cuts have had a ripple effect on various arts organizations in Chicago. For instance, the National Museum of Mexican Art faced challenges in continuing programs aimed at making the museum more accessible to disabled community members and providing internships for Black and Latino youth interested in museum work.

The recent funding cuts at both federal and local levels have placed Chicago's arts community in a precarious position, threatening the sustainability of cultural institutions and programs that have long been integral to the city's identity. The resilience demonstrated by organizations like Links Hall underscores the importance of continued support and advocacy to preserve the vibrancy of Chicago's arts scene.