Vanport Mosaic Shines a National Spotlight on Portland
The Memory Activism organization is One of 14 Nationwide to Anchor Inaugural “Cultural Week of Action on Race and Democracy.”
“Together, these projects create a beautiful quilt of American stories.” —Suzy Delvalle, interim co-CEO of Americans for the Arts.
PORTLAND, OR — Vanport Mosaic is honored to be selected as one of only 14 organizations nationwide invited to anchor the inaugural Cultural Week of Action on Race and Democracy, a groundbreaking initiative launched by Race Forward and Americans for the Arts (AFTA). This recognition highlights Vanport Mosaic’s pivotal role in leveraging arts, culture, and creativity to elevate dialogues and spark action in the pursuit of a multiracial democracy. As part of this initiative, Vanport Mosaic will shine a national spotlight on Portland’s rich and complex history through COMING HOME: Memory Activism in Old Town, a week-long series of events dedicated to honoring and reconnecting communities with deep ties to one of the city’s oldest and most historically significant neighborhoods.
“We are incredibly honored to be chosen out of more than 375 submissions,” said Chisao Hata, the visionary behind the project. “COMING HOME is an opportunity to deeply consider how our communities can unite to create a future that honors and safeguards Portland’s cultural heritage.”
The selected 14 events will take place from September through October 2024 in cities across the nation, anchoring the inaugural Cultural Week of Action on Race and Democracy. This initiative aims to harness the power of the arts to address critical issues and foster a more inclusive and equitable society.
“The selected projects represent the diversity, innovation, and uniqueness inherent in the fabric of our country,” said Glenn Harris, President of Race Forward. “That’s what a multiracial democracy is all about. It’s local communities organizing together to build a future that centers on equity, justice, and belonging.”
COMING HOME is free and open to the public. Events kick off on Saturday, September 28 at 11 am and run through October 5. Participants can engage in exhibitions, join walking tours, and partake in community-building activities.
MEDIA CONTACT: Liz Bacon Brownson
For a detailed calendar of events and more information, click here
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 2024