Artists for Understanding is a new initiative that brings together a diverse community of artists and cultural luminaries who share a common belief in the power of the arts and humanities to counter hate. The initiative directly supports the objectives of the National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism and the National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Related Forms of Bias and Discrimination, and builds upon the work of United We Stand: Connecting Through Culture. 

 In coordination with the White House, the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities (PCAH), the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), and the …

In collaboration with the NEA, the National Gallery of Art, and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, PCAH is exploring the transformative impact of art in our communities. This research-driven initiative supports PCAH recommendations by amplifying the ways art fosters economic growth, enhances public health, and cultivates civic engagement. Our research will spotlight the role of arts in community and workforce health and wellness, seek to integrate arts and culture into infrastructure projects, and amplify the role of artists as essential contributors to our nation’s strength and vitality.

Libraries are dynamic spaces for learning, creativity, and connection. They also serve as vital hubs in communities nationwide, constantly adapting to meet evolving needs and respond to crises. PCAH is collaborating with IMLS and the Library of Congress to support libraries and placemaking work. Forthcoming pilot projects will leverage libraries' unique resources and infrastructure to cultivate engaging environments, support existing networks, and nurture community interests.

In the face of climate-related natural disasters, the efficacy of rapid response and recovery efforts is paramount. PCAH is coordinating with the DOI, FEMA, IMLS, NEA, NEH, and the Smithsonian Institution to evaluate preparedness and relief strategies before disaster strikes. Working alongside non-profit partners to create a pilot and coalition for at-risk sites across the country, this collaboration will fortify the resilience of our nation’s cultural heritage and elevate the role of the arts and humanities in the process of recovery for communities impacted by disaster events.

PCAH and NEA have hosted listening sessions and will host convenings to bring together innovative thinkers from the non-profit theater sector, leaders in the arts and humanities, and major funders. These gatherings will explore central challenges to the non-profit theater sector, generate innovative solutions, and forge commitments necessary for the long-term recovery and sustainability of this crucial creative industry.

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, PCAH is committed to ensuring the perspectives, insights, and rights of artists, arts workers, and humanities professionals are considered and safeguarded. In collaboration with the NEA, NEH, the National Gallery of Art, and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, PCAH will support convenings that serve as dynamic forums where thought leaders from across humanities disciplines, the technology industry, and creative sectors can share knowledge, spark creativity, and devise meaningful policy recommendations that integrate the arts and humanities into the uses and development of AI.

PCAH will collaborate with Native American Tribes, Native American serving museums and professional organizations, IMLS, and other federal agencies to encourage stronger collaboration and help shape federal policies. Through critical convenings and new initiatives, we seek to empower museums to adopt the highest standards and practices for ethical returns and shared stewardship, through increased government support and coordination -- ensuring that cultural heritage is rightfully repatriated, honored, and preserved.