The Future of Small Presses in the Aftermath of the NEA Grant Chaos
18 days ago
- #Independent Publishing
- #NEA
- #Arts Funding
- NEA terminated $300,000 in grants for 51 publishers, citing 'new priorities'.
- The retractions were deemed illegal and a violation of First Amendment rights.
- Small presses face material consequences: fewer books, writers, and readers impacted.
- Authors Guild sued and won against NEA for violating federal law.
- Independent publishers like Hub City and Deep Vellum showcased resilience.
- NEA later allowed publishers to reclaim grants under strict conditions.
- CLMP, a vital support org for small presses, lost NEA funding for the first time since 1967.
- The chaos reflects political spite, moral failing, and disrespect for the arts.
- Independent literature will endure, but challenges persist due to funding cuts.
- Books are crucial cultural artifacts deserving reverence and support.