The Central New York Community Foundation (CNYCF) has awarded the Community Folk Art Center (CFAC) $20,000 in the first rounds of grants from its newly established Black Equity and Excellence Fund. A branch of the Department of African American Studies in the College of Arts and Sciences (A&S), CFAC will use the funds to host online exhibitions, artist talks and expand educational programming.

"We are proud to be one of the inaugural recipients of the Black Equity and Excellence grant and commend CNYCF for their financial commitment to systemically marginalized communities,'' says Tanisha Jackson, CFAC executive director. “Like many arts institutions across the nation, we are navigating the challenges of serving our community during a global pandemic. We are extremely grateful for this grant, which will support our mission to promote and develop artists of the African Diaspora in innovative ways during these difficult times."

The Central New York Community Foundation is the largest charitable foundation in Central New York and has invested more than $200 million in community improvement projects. The foundation plans to invest at least $1 million over the next few years to the Black Equity and Excellence initiative to support Black-led nonprofit organizations and projects that counteract systemic racism. In its first round of funding 12 grants were distributed, totaling $292,695. The grants are also intended to encourage and strengthen dialogue on race-related matters and support social and educational growth in the community.

CFAC is a vibrant cultural and artistic hub committed to promoting and developing artists of the African Diaspora. Public programming includes exhibitions, film screenings, gallery talks, workshops, and courses in the studio arts, including dance and ceramics. For more information on events and exhibits, visit the Community Folk Art Center.