KJZZ is a service of Rio Salado College,
and Maricopa Community Colleges

Copyright © 2024 KJZZ/Rio Salado College/MCCCD
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Arizona Commission On The Arts Director: Funding A 'Welcome Surprise,' But Challenges Remain

When the Arizona Legislature passed its so-called “skinny budget” back in March, a lot was left unfunded — including the Arizona Commission on the Arts.

The agency, which provides grants and programs in support of the arts and arts learning, was looking at major cuts. But July 3, Gov. Doug Ducey announced he was pulling $2 million from the state’s Crisis Contingency and Safety Net Fund to fund the agency.

The Show spoke with the Jaime Dempsey, the commission's executive director, about it — and about just how bad the situation for the arts has been in Arizona since the pandemic hit.

More Stories From KJZZ

Lauren Gilger, host of KJZZ's The Show, is an award-winning journalist whose work has impacted communities large and small, exposing injustices and giving a voice to the voiceless and marginalized.