Bold Steps Are Needed to Save, Remake the NEA

The recent article by our Music Center leaders must be applauded with respect to their comments on the damaging charges by the National Endowment for the Arts’ detractors (“Why the NEA Deserves Full Support,” Counterpunch, July 7). However, the NEA must now take steps to build itself as an institution that exemplifies a virtuous conscience and virtuous compass to direct our society in art matters.

It must be seen as an integral partner for the positive and exciting changes that are taking place in our society. It must not back away as a beacon for the arts to enhance all our citizens’ lives.

The NEA must be beyond reproach, supported by its many successes over the years, especially those services that have impacted upon the lives of individuals, schools and communities. The beginning of a renewal process by the current leadership of this organization is applauded.

The NEA has gone through many changes and will continue to do so. Bold steps on both sides of the aisle must now happen to remake the institution into a more viable catalytic and thus effective arm for the arts.

What matters is now. The historical perspective cannot be neglected, but our future in all its ramifications lies at the base of who we are and where we go from here. The NEA will change but, like all public service entities, those stewards who are responsible for its life must care for it and urge our representatives to do the right thing.

ROY K. JOHNSTON

Los Angeles