The arts and humanities play an important role in our country's cultural heritage and identity, while providing direct economic benefits by creating jobs, attracting investments, generating tax revenues, and stimulating local economic growth through tourism and consumer purchases. In Louisville, you will find a living, breathing scene of extraordinary creative works, one built on a history of patronage and investment. We are one of the only cities in America that can boast a children's theater, a ballet, an orchestra, an opera, and a nationally recognized theater.

When we invest in the arts and arts education, the benefits do not stop at the classroom, studio, or stage door. Study after study proves that students with access to arts education programs in school are more likely to go to college and succeed in the careers they pursue. Regardless of economic or social background, individuals who participated in arts education programs are more likely to vote, volunteer in their community, and work for causes that benefit their friends and neighbors. As a Member of the Congressional Arts Caucus, I will continue to support legislative efforts that make strong investments in our arts programs, including federal funding for the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities.