Government Affairs Update: National Arts in Education Week, Equitable Arts Education Enhancement Act, and Federal Giving Campaign

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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.


National Arts in Education Week, September 14-20

Next week is National Arts in Education Week!  Participate in the campaign by:

  • Inviting elected officials to your rehearsals, performances, and in-school activities!
  • Sharing photos and videos of your arts education activities and include #artsed or #artsedweek.
  • Tag Chorus America so we can uplift your activity!
The Equitable Arts Education Enhancement Act (EAEE) 

Chorus America, along with the National Association for Music Education and others, have signed on in support of the EAEE Act, which seeks to create federal art education grants specifically for Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs) to increase arts education and access.  Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove (D-CA) plans to re-introduce the bill again this year.  Read an overview of the legislation, here.

The Federal Giving Campaign Resumes, Temporarily

The federal government has removed its pause on the federal employee giving program, which supports thousands of charities across the country.  The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) issued a memo on Wednesday allowing the program to move forward for the near term. 

According to The Nonprofit Alliance, in 2024, federal employees contributed approximately $70 million to nearly 4,500 charities across 39 geographic zonesNumerous choral groups are listed as participants in the CFC program.

Does your choral group participate in the CFC?  If so, we would love to hear from you!  Please email [email protected] and we will follow up.  Thank you! 

We Want to Hear from You!

Chorus America is your on-the-ground advocate in Washington, DC, participating in numerous coalitions on your behalf.  Help us advocate for you by keeping us informed of your experiences and concerns! Email [email protected] with your updates, stories, and questions! Thank you! 


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Amy Fitterer Headshot

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.