Massachusetts is complicated and evolving. Steeped in revolutionary traditions that shape our democracy, we live in a global capital of ideas enriched by generations of longtime residents and new arrivals who reimagine the possibilities of our neighborhoods and institutions. Systemic inequities and shifting demographics require new conversations about what it means to be part of the Massachusetts story. As we begin the recovery from the extraordinary challenges of the last year, a reckoning with our history can infuse new voices into our efforts to build a more equitable commonwealth.
At Mass Humanities, we believe in an inclusive society that recognizes all people’s perspectives, especially those that have been historically excluded. Launching on June 1, the Expand Massachusetts Stories initiative offers up to $20,000 for projects that collect, interpret and/or share narratives about the commonwealth, with an emphasis on the voices and experiences that have gone unrecognized, or have been excluded from public conversation.
The deadline for Letters of Inquiry is June 22.
Projects should employ the tools of the humanities—inquiry, contextualization, and reflection—to improve our shared understanding of the Bay State. Organizations are encouraged to explore and amplify previously unacknowledged voices from the past; make space for the lived experiences of Massachusetts residents from historically excluded communities; reconsider well-known stories from new perspectives; or provide opportunities for people to engage their understandings of their communities through the humanities. Successful proposals will demonstrate how the project contributes to a more inclusive story of Massachusetts. Mass Humanities is especially interested in projects based in the knowledge and wisdom that exists locally.
Questions? Email grants@masshumanities.org