St. Louis Hosts ‘Cultural Week Of Action On Race And Democracy’

Race Forward and Americans for the Arts will launch the Cultural Week of Action on Race and Democracy on Friday in St. Louis. This week-long event, running through Oct. 5, will highlight how arts and culture can shape democracy and promote racial equity.

This comes at a crucial moment. Just days before, Missouri executed Marcellus “Khaliifah” Williams, a Black man whose conviction remains controversial due to DNA evidence suggesting his innocence. The execution has reignited national discussions about racial injustice. With these concerns in mind, the themes of the week — racial equity and democracy — are more relevant than ever.

Kick-Off Event at The Hawthorne

The event begins with a kick-off at 6:00 p.m. at the Hawthorne, an event space in downtown St. Louis. It is expected to include a panel discussion on the role of art in promoting justice and democracy. Rinku Sen, Executive Director of Narrative Initiative, is scheduled to moderate the panel, featuring prominent voices like Joseph Orzal, Favianna Rodriguez and R-SON. The discussion will focus on how art can dismantle systemic racism and foster multiracial democracy.

In addition to the panel, live performances by Gangstagrass and local St. Louis artists will bring cultural inspiration to the audience. These performances will help set the tone for the week-long activities and will energize the participants.

Honoring Michael Brown Jr. with Art

The event will also unveil a new art installation in honor of Michael Brown Jr., marking 10 years since his police killing in nearby Ferguson, Missouri. The installation serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and the role that art plays in bringing that struggle to light.

Keynote Address by Dr. Philip Woodmore

Dr. Philip Woodmore, composer of the score for Antigone in Ferguson, will deliver the keynote address. He will speak about how art can be a tool for activism, healing, and community building, especially in the face of racial violence. His address will tie together the themes of the week by showing how creative expression fosters resilience and unity.

Expanding the Cultural Week Across the Country

The Cultural Week of Action extends beyond St. Louis. Local organizations across the country are encouraged to host events that tie into this national initiative. These projects will collectively contribute to a national dialogue on how arts and culture can drive systemic change.

“Our goal is for people to see the arts as a meaningful response to national challenges,” said Suzy Delvalle and Jamie Bennett, interim co-CEOs of Americans for the Arts. “By celebrating our cultural heritage, we create a shared identity that can unite us.”

A Call for Action

The Cultural Week of Action is a timely reminder of the power of arts and culture to address systemic injustice. In light of Marcellus “Khaliifah” Williams, this week serves as both a reflection and a call to action.

Organizations can still participate by adding their projects to the activities map through the initiative’s website.

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