Native Arts and Cultures Foundation

The Native Arts and Cultures Foundation is a 501c3 not-for-profit organization that supports Native American artists, culture bearers and Native-led arts organizations, providing them with support through fellowships and project funding.[1] It is the only philanthropic organization which exclusively supports American Indian, Native Alaskan and Native Hawaiian arts and cultures in the United States.[2]

The Native Arts and Cultures Foundation, founded in 2008, is funded by contributions from the public, foundations, corporations, and affiliated organizations. It was launched with a $10 million commitment from the Ford Foundation, following a feasibility study demonstrating the need and interest in such an endowment.[3][4] The Rumsey Band of Wintun Indians near Sacramento, Calif. committed an additional $1.5 million.[5]

Founding Chairman of the Board of Directors was Walter Echo-Hawk (Pawnee). Other founding board members were Joy Harjo, (Muscokee-Creek) poet and musician, Elizabeth Woody, a writer and cultural specialist from the Warm Springs Reservation, Marshall McKay, Chairman of the Rumsey Rancheria, Letitia Chambers, a private consultant of Cherokee descent, and Buffy St. Marie, the singer/activist.[6]

References

  1. Pogrebin, Robin (21 April 2009). "New Group is Formed to Sponsor Native Arts". The New York Times. Retrieved 23 June 2016.
  2. Koepke, Kelly (28 April 2009). "Native Arts & Culture Foundation supports Indian Country". Indian Country Today Media Network. Retrieved 23 June 2016.
  3. Rave, Jodi (18 May 2008). "Multimillion-dollar foundation wil promote Native art". Lincoln Journal Star. Retrieved 23 June 2016.
  4. "Native Arts and Cultures: Research, Growth and Opportunities for Philanthropic Support" (PDF). Grantmakers in the Arts. The Ford Foundation. Retrieved 23 June 2016.
  5. Perry, Douglas (29 April 2009). "Native arts foundation launches with Portland base". The Oregonian/Oregon Live. Retrieved 23 June 2016.
  6. "National Native Arts and Cultures Foundation". Native American Rights Fund. Retrieved 23 June 2016.
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