Staff cuts begin at NEH, threatening humanities programs across US

The National Endowment for the Humanities has started terminating most of its staff. The American Federation of Government Employees Local 3403 reported that approximately 65% of the agency received notices.

The agency, dedicated to funding humanities programs, has faced cuts including the end of over 1,000 grants last week, impacting various public programs.

The union has criticized the administration’s actions, stating it shows a “callous disregard for the meaningful contributions” of NEH staff.

Wisconsin Humanities, reliant on federal funding, has lost 89% of its budget, including $400,000 for 2024, unless Congress acts to reverse the termination order.