Help Preserve Pennsylvania's Historical and Cultural Heritage!

On February 4, 2009, Governor Ed Rendell revealed his proposal for Pennsylvania's Executive Budget.

Cuts and eliminations were made across 89% of all line items in the budget. In particular, Rendell noted the cuts of 20% to the 500 items under control of the Executive Branch.

The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission saw a reduction of 10% on their line items, and the elimination of Museum Assistance Grants.

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I am writing to urge you to reconsider the proposed cuts to the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission - particularly the complete elimination of Museum Assistance Grants for this year - and future years. These grants have provided Greater Philadelphia institutions with invaluable assistance.

Philadelphia area museums and historical sites are vital to our local economy and educational experience. Historical organizations draw an annual attendance of almost 4 million visits. 2.7 million visits (68% of all historical admissions) are free of charge. Many of these visitors stay overnight in hotels and dine in restaurants - making museums and historical organizations powerful economic drivers for the community. According to a recent Penn State-Harrisburg survey, 91% of respondents surveyed said that they would support public funding for historical sites and museums.

Although times are tough, and Governor Rendell's budget made universal cuts, times are tougher on nonprofit cultural institutions. Twenty one historical institutions and museums in Greater Philadelphia faced a deficit of more than 10% in 2008.* This program supports more than 200 museums statewide, and the loss of Museum Assistance Grants could put many organizations out of business.

I once again urge you to reconsider the importance of Museum Assistance Grants through the Pennsylvania Museum and Historical Commission. An investment in our area's notable historical sites and museums is a long-lasting investment in our community's economy, vitality, and identity.

*Data from the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance's 2008 Portfolio

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
April 13, 2009