(a) In general
The Secretary is authorized to, on a competitive basis, make grants to, and enter into contracts and cooperative agreements with, eligible entities to support the activities described in subsection (b).

(b) Activities
In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall support activities providing cultural experiences, through appropriate nonprofit organizations with a demonstrated proficiency in providing such activities, that—

(1) enrich the lives of deaf and hard-of-hearing children and adults;

(2) increase public awareness and understanding of deafness and of the artistic and intellectual achievements of deaf and hard-of-hearing persons; or

(3) promote the integration of hearing, deaf, and hard-of-hearing persons through shared cultural, educational, and social experiences.

(c) Applications
An eligible entity that desires to receive a grant, or enter into a contract or cooperative agreement, under this section shall submit an application to the Secretary at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may require.

(d) Authorization of appropriations
There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section such sums as may be necessary for fiscal year 2009 and each of the five succeeding fiscal years.