The PEACE Through Music Diplomacy Act Passes Congress, Heads To The President's Desk To Be Signed Into Law

Last night, the Recording-Academy-endorsed PEACE (Promoting Peace, Education, and Cultural Exchange) Through Music Diplomacy Act passed through Congress as part of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2023 (NDAA) and will now head to President Biden's desk to be signed into law.

Its enactment will use music, and music-related global exchange programs, as a tool to build cross-cultural understanding, and advance peace abroad.

Moreover, the PEACE Through Music Diplomacy Act will empower the State Department to leverage partnerships with the private sector when designing and implementing its music-related exchange programs and also authorizes music-related exchanges that advance peace abroad.

The bipartisan PEACE Through Music Diplomacy Act was originally introduced in the House of Representatives by 2022 GRAMMYs on the Hill Honorees, Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX) and former Rep. Ted Deutch (D-FL) in January of this year. Following its introduction, the Recording Academy consistently advocated for its passage, including making it a top priority during our GRAMMYs on the Hill Advocacy Day in April.

Just a few weeks after meeting with Recording Academy advocates on Capitol Hill, Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) introduced a companion version of the bill in the Senate — demonstrating true bipartisan and bicameral support for its passage.

Upon the bill's passage, Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason jr., had this to say: "The passage of the PEACE Through Music Diplomacy Act is a reminder of the power of music and its capacity to increase understanding between diverse cultures and people around the world. The Recording Academy is grateful to Rep. McCaul, former Rep. Deutch, and Senators Leahy and Tillis for their support of this important legislation, and we look forward to championing future cross-sector partnerships that will allow music creators to promote peace across the globe."

The bill's passage marks an important step forward for the global music community. Once signed into law by President Biden, the Recording Academy will continue our involvement by working with the State Department and other actors to implement the important provisions of the PEACE Through Music Diplomacy Act.

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