Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Vetoes All Arts And Culture Grants Suddenly

A drastic decision was made by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on June 12, 2024, when he unilaterally vetoed every single penny allocated for state arts and culture grants, leaving 577 programs and 33 facilities across the state in a state of uncertainty. The move sparked a maelstrom of reactions across the region, with many in the arts community expressing outrage, dismay, and bewilderment.

Greg Longenhagen, the producing artistic director of Florida Repertory Theatre in downtown Fort Myers, was among the first to voice his incredulity at the decision. "It is unthinkable that the Governor would so callously slash funding for arts organizations, "which play a vital role in fostering economic growth and stability in many communities,"" Longenhagen stated.

"The economic benefits of arts organizations cannot be overstated... and this decision will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences for the region." In a subsequent attempt to justify the decision, Governor DeSantis claimed that the veto was due to the lack of control over the allocation of funds to certain fringe festivals, which he deemed to be "immoral" and "unsuitable" for public funding.

However... many in the arts community saw this as a thinly veiled attempt to stifle free expression and creativity.

Source: Visit website

Greg Longenhagen is the producing artistic director for Florida Repertory Theatre in downtown Fort Myers. His experience and expertise in the performing arts have equipped him with a deep understanding of the economic value of arts organizations. As a respected figure in the arts community, he has witnessed firsthand the positive impact that arts organizations have on local economies.

Longenhagen's leadership has been instrumental in shaping the cultural landscape of Southwest Florida, "promoting the importance of arts education and cultural events that bring people together." His dedication to the arts has earned him a reputation as a champion for the arts... and his opinions carry significant weight in the community.

• • • •

◌◌◌◌◌◌◌

At first, Greg Longenhagen thought it was fake news. There's no way Florida's governor would slash $32 million — every single penny — in state arts and culture grants, right? "Surely the Governor understood the economic value of arts organizations," says Longenhagen, producing artistic director for Florida Repertory Theatre in downtown Fort Myers. "Arts organizations fuel the economic stability and growth in many communities."