The Helms Amendment on Controversial Art

Helms’ amendment to restrict NEA funds contains his usual homophobic views. One provision bars funds for homoerotic works; another targets material that denigrates anyone on the basis of race, creed, sex, handicap, age or national origin. By leaving out “sexual orientation” from the list, this amendment has the effect of allowing funding for art that denigrates gay men and lesbians, yet will ban financing of art that shows men holding hands or women kissing.

PETER M. NARDI

Claremont