When the Applause Fades: The Global Fight to Keep Women Artists Heard

In Kenya and here in the United States, I've seen how difficult it is for women artists to be heard. But as an artist myself, I've also been a part of something beautiful: watching women unite to amplify each other's voices.

Demba Ochenga performing on the nyatiti at a women artists celebration in Kenya, a powerful and unifying moment for female creatives

The Power We Create, The Threat We Face

My experiences at both WomenArts and the Institute for the Musical Arts (IMA) showed me firsthand what's possible when women create spaces for one another. It's a powerful and transformative force. But lately, I've watched something deeply troubling happen: in the U.S., major cuts to arts funding are threatening to pull the rug out from under women artists, especially those from marginalized communities.

This Isn't Just an American Problem

Lydiah Dola (Kenya) and Jax Hollow (USA), two incredible vocal trainers who worked together at the Institute for the Musical Arts' 2025 summer camp.

What's happening in America isn't just an American issue. When programs like the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and Public Broadcasting get gutted, it disrupts the global networks that women artists everywhere rely on to share ideas and find inspiration.

In Nairobi, we know what it's like to create meaningful work with scarce resources. The struggle is real, and it's universal. We all face similar obstacles, and when one country weakens its support for its own artists, it sends a ripple effect across the globe.

From Celebration to Action

Women Artists' Day started as a vibrant celebration of female creativity, but in this challenging moment, a celebration isn't enough. We need to turn a single day of recognition into a global call to action.

The energy of community. Artists Popo The Artist, Demba Ochenga, Ati Sana, and Lydiah Dola celebrating creativity and collaboration at a past Women Artists Celebration Day Event

Whether you're in Nairobi or New York, a small theater or a large gallery, your actions matter. You can help by:

• Championing women's art and stories: Share the work that moves you and tell others why it's important.

• Supporting women-led arts organizations: Attend their shows, donate if you can, and spread the word about what they do. My time at the Institute for the Musical Arts showed me how vital these dedicated spaces are.

• Speaking up: Remind those in power that art is not a luxury. It's a necessity for a healthy society and requires consistent, real funding.

• Building connections across borders: Remember that women artists, whether they are from Nairobi or New York, are in this fight together.

  
  

When women artists lose their voice and their livelihood, we all lose a piece of our soul. From small studios to global stages, from Nairobi to New York, let's make sure our support knows no borders.

A beautiful moment of art and friendship. Nduta Muiru, a great dancer, receiving encouragement from Sophie Dowllar and Neema Bagamuhunda

How can you show up for women artists today, and how can we turn a single day of celebration into a lifetime of unwavering support?

The Institute for the Musical Arts (IMA) is a powerful example of what's possible when women create dedicated spaces for one another's work. This video showcases their incredible "Rock n' Roll Summer Camp for Girls," where young women are empowered to find their voice and lift each other up.

Post from New England Public Media

Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. — Helen Keller