National Leaders of Color Fellowship: A Call for Collaborative Change

The arts thrive on connection, on the cross-pollination of ideas and the vibrant hues of diverse perspectives. Yet, too often, systemic barriers and a lack of support stifle the voices and contributions of artists of color. The National Leaders of Color Fellowship Program (LoCF) rises to meet this challenge, nurturing a community where collaboration is not just encouraged but celebrated as a superpower.

The LoCF Regional Summit: A Tapestry of Voices

The recent LoCF Regional Conversations + Fellows Summit pulsated with the energy of shared experiences and collective vision. It was a space where fellows and U.S. Regional Arts Organizations (USRAO) staff alike wove together a tapestry of voices, setting the stage for a more inclusive and equitable arts landscape.

• “I haven’t been in as [an] affirming of a space in my career in arts administration,” one fellow shared. “The intentionality and care of how the space was held meant everything.”

This sentiment echoed throughout the summit, where participants engaged in thoughtful discussions, regional breakout sessions, and heartfelt reflections on the program’s impact.

Key Themes and Calls to Action:

• Collaboration: “Take your Culture with you” encourages artists to bring their full selves to collaborative spaces. The hummingbird and bee symbolize the potential for collaboration between individual artists and arts organizations.
• Care and Rest: “Build care + rest into practice + policy” challenges the pervasive notion that burnout is a necessary part of artistic success. This theme is visually linked to the flow of creativity, suggesting that prioritizing care can help overcome obstacles.
• Funding Equity: “Fund artists to have meaningful exchanges across regions” and “Most funding is for established 501c3s, not individual artists” highlight the need for increased funding for individual artists and equitable resource distribution. This theme is visually linked to the flow of resources, suggesting that funding equity can help break down barriers.
• Community and Connection: “What communities are overlooked?” prompts viewers to consider those who are marginalized and underserved within the arts ecosystem. The image encourages connecting folks across generations, disciplines, and spaces to foster a more inclusive and supportive community.

Visual Elements:

• Hummingbird and Nest: Symbolize individual artists and their creative potential.
• Bee and Hive: Represent arts organizations and their role in supporting and connecting artists.
• Flower: Symbolizes the point of connection and exchange, where creativity and resources can flow freely.
• Dam: Represents the obstacles of power and capitalism that hinder the flow of creativity and resources.
• Cracks in the Dam: Symbolize the potential for change and the power of collaboration and care to overcome obstacles.

More Than a Program, a Movement

The LoCF is more than a fellowship; it is a movement fueled by the belief that every artist, regardless of background, deserves the opportunity to thrive.

• As one fellow eloquently put it, “It was an excellent way to wrap up the fellowship! I was very grateful for this opportunity; it was extremely beneficial for me in my role! Learning and connecting with other [a]rts administrators, both veterans and ‘rookies’ like myself, helped me feel more confident and gave me a sense of belonging in the [a]rt space.”
• “This program is a great way to connect, network and grow professionally. I think you really get what you put into it.” – USRAO staff member.
• “I’m so grateful that I was able to participate in this program,” echoed another fellow,
  I’m walking away feeling seen, heard, and stronger in my ability to lead and advocate for the communities of which I’m a part. Just…. thank you!”