Posted November 21, 2025
It’s not every day you get a mention in The New York Times
DPO is honored to be included in a national conversation about arts organizations choosing mission over money.
In a recent article about new federal grant restrictions, the Times highlighted how groups across the country are pushing back. Here’s the excerpt that mentioned DPO:
“Amid concerns over funding after the National Endowment of the Arts canceled a large percentage of its awards in May, organizations across the country have decided they would rather find money elsewhere than be subject to federal restrictions.
The Denver Philharmonic Orchestra declined an $8,000 grant, citing concerns about diluting its D.E.I. work…”
For us, this was a straightforward decision. Our commitment to inclusive programming, diverse voices, equitable access, and community-centered work guides everything we do. If funding requires us to compromise those values, we’re willing to walk away.
And we’re not the only ones. We’re in good company with other organizations choosing integrity over financial support that comes with restrictions. And we’re grateful to the NYT for highlighting how local arts groups are protecting their missions.