- T20 -

Nationalism populism and authoritarianism are on the rise throughout the world. For many years the Foundation for Arts Initiatives has supported artsbased individuals collectives and institutions subjected to political repression public intimidation financial castigation and physical displacement. We are deeply troubled by the escalation of extreme repression in Palestine and the consequent restrictions on freedom of speech in Western countries. We reaffirm our commitment to continue to support individuals collectives and institutions in their struggle against racism neofascism white supremacy antisemitism islamophobia apartheid and xenophobia.