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Register by October 17 to Secure Your Spot!
| Registration Type | Member Price |
|---|---|
| Early Bird Registration (Sept. 11-Oct.3) | $750 |
| General Registration (Oct. 4-Oct.17) | $850 |
The political landscape in Washington, DC continues to evolve daily. Chorus America needs to hear from you: How are the federal government’s actions affecting your work? All stories of specific impact are welcome. Please share your experience here. Thank you to those members who have already shared their stories with us.
Visit our Government Affairs Resource Page for more tools.
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These government affairs updates are provided for informational purposes only and are not intended as legal advice. Nonprofit arts organizations should consult with legal counsel for guidance specific to their circumstances.
As anticipated, the federal government shut down this morning, October 1, as Republicans and Democrats remain at an impasse in FY26 budget negotiations.
What is a Government Shutdown?
A shutdown occurs when Congress has not passed a budget for the new fiscal year, leaving the federal government without resources to fully operate. Only essential services, fee-based services, and programs with independent funding streams remain open. Congress stays in Washington, D.C. to continue negotiations.
How Will the Shutdown Impact Cultural Agencies?
The choral community should expect possible delays in communications, grant payments, and grant reviews. Chorus America is monitoring the following federal cultural grantmaking entities:
- National Endowment for the Arts (NEA): The NEA has not yet issued guidance on how it will implement the shutdown. In past shutdowns, the NEA has furloughed staff and gone “quiet” until the government reopened.
- National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH): The NEH has not yet shared its shutdown plans.
- Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS): Statement from IMLS: “The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is closed due to a partial shutdown of the United States Government. As a result, IMLS is not engaged in grant-making or other agency activities. During this time, we will not be able to review or respond to any form of communication. No payments for discretionary grant programs will be made by IMLS until the agency is reopened. Any additional information will be posted on our website.”
How Will the Shutdown Impact Artist Visas?
- U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS): USCIS will continue reviewing petitions and processing visas, as these are fee-based services that operate without Congressional appropriations.
- U.S. Department of State – Consular Operations:Statement from the State Department: “During the lapse in government funding, consular operations domestically and abroad will remain operational. This includes passports, visas, and assistance to American citizens abroad. Domestic support for consular operations will be suspended.”
How Choruses Can Help
- Invite furloughed federal employees to your performances, rehearsals, and workshops free of charge. A shutdown can be stressful for employees who are not receiving pay. Your invitation can provide comfort, joy, and a sense of community during this difficult time.
Stay Tuned for More!
- Chorus America is closely monitoring the developments in DC. Stay tuned for more updates as they become available.
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Amy Fitterer is a dynamic leader in association management, government affairs, and the performing arts. She has consulted for OPERA America and Partners in Performance, supporting advocacy and strategic planning efforts. As Executive Director of Dance/USA (2011–2020), she led its transformation into a more equitable and financially strong organization, launching initiatives like Dance/USA Fellowships to Artists. Previously, she directed government affairs for OPERA America and Dance/USA, successfully advocating for arts funding and policy improvements. A former ballet dancer and pianist, Amy holds degrees from Indiana University and Columbia University. She lives in northern Virginia with her family and enjoys dance, music, and fitness.
