Duckworth, Durbin Announce More Than $200K in Federal Funding for Arts Programming in Illinois

[CHICAGO, IL] — U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today announced $222,400 in federal funding from the National Endowment for the Arts through the ArtsHERE grant program for two Illinois organizations.

Free Spirit Media, which works with young creators primarily from the West and South sides of Chicago, will receive $110,000 for their Reimagining Evaluation project to create new evaluation tools rooted in storytelling, reflection, social justice and equity. Free Spirit Media focuses on community-building, skill-sharing and career and education pathways. The Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center (UCIMC) will receive $112,400 to support a five-year strategic planning process, including cultural strategy training and a study series for local artists and community leaders. Founded in 2001, UCIMC has transformed a historic post office into a community media and arts center, supporting various community programs and financially sponsoring more than 60 organizations.

“Arts like theater, music and design are some of the building blocks of a community’s culture,” Duckworth said. “I'm glad this federal support will help allow arts programs across Illinois to continue fostering, sharing and promoting connection and creativity in their communities.”

“The arts have not only played a major role in our state’s economy, but they have made substantial contributions to our communities, making these federal investments all the more important,” said Durbin. “Today’s announced funding will help develop young artists and foster creativity and connection.”

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