March 10, 2020

Like so many organizations across the United States and around the world, NASAA is keeping a close eye on the coronavirus and how it may affect our staff, members, work and convenings. We’re monitoring the situation at both the federal and District of Columbia government levels. As I’m sure you know, the federal government is currently open for business, and there are no domestic travel restrictions to or from Washington, D.C.

Your listserv communications have shared some helpful links for keeping abreast of this fast-moving situation. Although there are many helpful websites on this subject, we believe these may be most helpful for state arts agencies, since they will be updated dynamically as the situation evolves:

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is posting its latest updated information on an ongoing basis and recommends connecting to your state, territorial and local health agencies for location-specific guidance.
• ArtsReady and NCAPER (National Coalition for Arts Preparedness and Emergency Response) are regularly updating their sites with arts-specific resources and advice.

We also know that state arts agencies are receiving questions from arts stakeholders seeking guidance on planning arts events or managing cultural facilities in light of COVID-19. In addition to referrals to state and local health authorities, the following resources may be useful:

• The CDC recently issued guidance on how to Get Your Mass Gatherings or Large Community Events Ready for Coronavirus Disease 2019.
• ArtsReady has circulated practical examples of measures being implemented by cultural organizations, including this March 6 New York Times article and this February 26 ArtsReady Alert.
• COVID-19/Coronavirus Resources & Information for the Museum Field, from the American Alliance of Museums, contains advice applicable to museums and other cultural venues.
• Two webinars—Theatre Communications Group’s Coronavirus Preparedness Webinar and the Event Safety Alliance’s Prepare Your Organization for the Coronavirus Disease Outbreak—may be of particular interest to performing arts groups.
• The League of American Orchestras coronavirus resources page includes examples of sample audience communications as well as other readiness recommendations.
• Americans for the Arts offers basic individual prevention measures to share with attendees, program participants and employees.

Please feel free to reach out to NASAA with your questions and concerns. We stand ready to help.