ARTS & CULTURE GOAL #1: Foster authentic artistic and cultural expression by diverse neighborhoods and communities, especially those that are historically disadvantaged.
Example grants: Grand Rapids Community Arts – Support for underrepresented artists through social media features and artist talks focused on racial equity and social justice themes; New City Kids – Music program with academic and arts focus; NIA Centre – Equitable access and exposure to the arts for communities of color; Grandville Avenue Art & Humanities – Arts working group network support to integrate a collective DEI strategy; Diatribe Inc. –Support for a capital campaign to redevelop a multi-purpose, LEED Silver-certified facility in an underserved neighborhood.; Ecliptic at Rosa Parks Circle Conservancy – Activated public art space honoring Rosa Parks that serves as a venue for civic engagement activities; Has Heart – Veterans partner with graphic designers to share their stories through art ; Grand Rapids Public Museum Foundation – Incorporate Native American worldviews & indigenous knowledge in staffing, internships and expanded programming.
ARTS & CULTURE GOAL #2: Assure affordable and welcoming access by lower-income and diverse individuals to a wide variety of artistic and cultural exhibits and performances through relevant programming and aggressive outreach.
Example grants: Grand Rapids Civic Theatre – Program for individuals with neurological and sensory conditions such as autism; Artist Creating Together, Inc. – Mobile studio that provides access to art, cultural, and educational experiences for individuals with disabilities; Grand Rapids Public Library Foundation – Inclusion support that provides culturally relevant programming; Ebony Road Players – Theatre training program for diverse local artists in under-resourced communities.