“Mapping Small Arts and Culture Organizations of Color in Oakland,” a report commissioned by the Kenneth Rainin Foundation and Akonadi Foundation, won first place for external publication or report in PR News’ 2019 Nonprofit Awards. This win underscores a timely investigation into the ways that vibrant contributions from communities of color are strengthening our cities, while these communities struggle to survive. The award also celebrates the power of collaboration to lift up work and voices in the community.
This first-of-its-kind benchmark report fills a critical gap in research on small organizations serving people of color and builds understanding to spur investments by funders and policymakers. The report was authored by Creative Equity Research Partners and features 138 organizations with budgets of $250,000 or less that serve people of color. It outlines the characteristics, strengths and needs of these grassroots organizations.
“Mapping Small Arts and Culture Organizations of Color in Oakland” features 138 organizations that have budgets of $250,000 or less and serve people of color.
The report finds that these arts and culture organizations contribute to a strong sense of place in Oakland, but are facing challenges that hamper their growth, stability and sustainability. These organizations have deep ties within communities of color, and their responsive programming addresses urgent community issues. In addition to arts and culture, these groups focus on displacement, oppressive policing, gun violence, food deserts and human trafficking, all of which harm communities of color disproportionately.
The full report and executive summary are available for download here: mapartscultureoakland.org.