Walking Together: Investing in Folklife in Communities of Color supports folklife and traditional arts rooted in communities of color by investing in artists/practitioners and the community organizations that care for them. It is a national funding program managed by the six U.S. regional arts organizations (RAOs).
Often called the “art of everyday life,” folklife includes traditional art forms and other creative expressions that reflect the aesthetics, practices, values, and beliefs of community groups. All traditions are connected to the history of the communities that practice them, but they are not just art forms of the past. Instead, they are “living traditions” that adapt to remain relevant in a changing world, including new and emerging traditions. Individuals and communities use traditional arts to build collective power, engage in healing, and strengthen their identity. Walking Together serves traditional artists/practitioners and organizations that show a deep commitment to sustaining folklife rooted in communities of color.
Please refer to the guidelines for more information on the application portal and alternative ways to apply.
Each RAO has a Walking Together advisor to answer your questions and help with your Self-Nomination. You can also join your advisor’s office hours for personalized support. If these times don’t work for you, reach out for a conversation on your schedule. Please find your state or jurisdiction below via the dropdown menu to view your RAO advisor’s information and schedule. We hope to hear from you soon!
The Apply Now button will take you to the Smart Simple application portal. Please refer to the Walking Together guidelines for more information on the portal and alternative ways to apply.