7 August 2027
Today we’re providing and update on our July 3 Action Alert related to the South Carolina Arts Commission’s decision to delay a vote on the Operating Support grant category after some of its board members expressed concern about compliance with a Federal Executive Order.
The Board of Commissioners will meet again on August 20th, 2026. In June, the agency budgeted and approved $3.7M in funding for the grants, so the grant category was not cancelled or eliminated, but Commissioners will still need to approve the list of awards. While the agency has not yet posted the meeting agenda, we anticipate the list of grantees will be revisited during the upcoming meeting.
August 11 Update: You can read the public comment that the SCAA submitted here.
August 13 Update: The ACLU of South Carolina recently shared a message to Commissioners, which is available here.
Take Action
There are several opportunities for advocates to make their voices heard in advance of this meeting, and more information about each can be found on the agency website.
Submit Public Comment
Advocates, particularly those impacted by the delay, are encouraged to submit comments pertaining to the work of the South Carolina Arts Commission via a Public Comment Form. As with all advocacy efforts remember to keep messages respectful and bi-partisan.
The deadline for public comment for the August 20th meeting is Thursday, August 13th.
Attend the Meeting
Commission meetings are open to the public through an in-person viewing room at the Agency Office. In-person attendees will still be watching the meeting on a live-stream, but this is an opportunity for advocate presence.
Watch the Meeting from Home
The public may also view the livestream from home via a Zoom link.
*Advocates who wish to attend the meeting either virtually or “in-person” must follow the request procedure outlined on the agency website.
