The NEA grant will provide more than 50 million dollars to 567 arts organizations nationwide to help the arts and cultural sector recover from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Organizations that were awarded funds can use the monies to “save jobs, fund operations and facilities, health and safety supplies, and marketing and promotional efforts to encourage attendance and participation,” according to a written release from Rush’s office.
“The Hyde Park Jazz festival is an outstanding cultural event for our city,” said Rush in a written statement. “It’s free, it’s world-class, it’s renowned, and I’m so proud that it is held in the 1st District. I love jazz, and I’m thrilled that the Hyde Park Jazz Festival will receive $50,000 from the American Rescue Plan. This monumental legislation, which I was proud to help pass, is truly a gift that keeps on giving.”
Other Chicago grant awardees include the Muntu Dance Theatre in South Shore, which received $100,000, and Free Spirit Media, a west side-based nonprofit that provides teens and adults with tools and skills in media and storytelling, which received $150,000. Here is a complete listing of awardees in Illinois.