Survey Reveals Staffing and Funding Struggles at People of Color-Led Cultural Institutions in Northeast

A recent study by the nonprofit Museum Hue examines the operational challenges faced by cultural organizations founded and directed by people of color across the Northeastern United States. The research, titled "HueArts and Culture Northeast," involved 38 institutions and found that more than one-third operate without any full-time employees. Among smaller-budget entities with annual operating funds under $500,000, 67% reported having no permanent staff, with some functioning on less than $100,000 per year and relying heavily on volunteers. These organizations, which include Indigenous, Black, Asian, and Latine-led spaces, play a crucial role in preserving and presenting the arts, culture, and histories of marginalized communities. According to the survey, 91% of participants maintain collections focused on underrepresented ethnic groups, while 84% identified sharing lesser-known narratives as a primary strength. Financial sustainability emerged as a universal concern, affecting even those with larger budgets. The report notes a significant decline in federal operational support, dropping from 25% in Fiscal Year 2022 to just 4% in FY23, with smaller institutions receiving only 2%. Conversely, foundation contributions increased from 19% to 23%. Adrienne Lei, Museum Hue's Deputy Director, attributed the earlier federal funding surge to COVID-19 relief measures like the American Rescue Plan and CARES Act. Staffing shortages hinder fundraising efforts, with over half of larger organizations and three-quarters of smaller ones struggling to dedicate time to donor cultivation or grant applications. The study, which took three years to complete and includes a foreword by Smithsonian Institution Secretary Lonnie Bunch, also features insights from interviews conducted by Yancey Consulting. Museum Hue's Executive Director Stephanie Johnson-Cunningham emphasized that the findings reveal a cyclical pattern where under-resourced institutions are penalized for achieving much with limited means. Despite financial pressures, many continue to offer free admission to maintain community accessibility.