The humanities, arts, and social sciences help make America strong. Federal funding for these fields makes our nation safer, grows our economy, and preserves and contributes to our shared American identity.
Federal agencies and programs deliver real results:
University research in the social, behavioral, and economic sciences funded by agencies like the National Science Foundation (NSF) and National Institutes of Health (NIH), helps us better understand human behavior and the effects of public policies.
The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) has awarded $6 billion in grants since 1965, preserving American heritage, strengthening our national identity, and supporting humanities research and programs in every state.
The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) has invested $5.5 billion in grants since 1965 to strengthen American culture and boost local economies.
The Institute of Museum and Library Sciences (IMLS) has invested billions of dollars in libraries and museums that bring tourism dollars and jobs to communities across our country and provide critical access to information and history for citizens.
Title VI and Fulbright-Hays programs strengthen the understanding of foreign language and cultures and help students, educators, and other professionals develop expertise in issues critical to national security and diplomacy.
Understanding the world, and our nation's history, values, and identity is not a luxury. It forms the basis for a well-trained workforce, effective public policy, and a secure and prosperous nation. AAU urges Congress to protect this investment so Americans can better understand and honor our past and meet the challenges of the future.
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