Feature

Cultural Policy Center Hosts Symposium on Diversity in the Arts

The Cultural Policy Center and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs hosted a symposium on November 10 about diversity in the arts and cultural organizations. The event-which follows the recent publication of the Center's book, Entering Cultural Communities: Diversity and Change in the Nonprofit Arts-facilitated discussions among Chicago-area cultural leaders.

Peter Marzio, director of Houston's Museum of Fine Arts, delivered a keynote address on relationship building between cultural institutions and communities. Other speakers included Michelle T. Boone, cultural program officer for the Joyce Foundation; Ken Warren, deputy provost for research and minority issues at the University of Chicago; Sarah Schultz, director of education and community programs at the Walker Art Center, Minneapolis; and Carlos Tortolero, founder and president of the National Museum of Mexican Art.

Attendees included staff and board members from Chicago-area cultural organizations, foundation officers, students, and researchers. Breakout discussions touched on topics such as the meaning and measurement of success as well as targeting audiences-such as youth, ethnic minorities, and the economically disadvantaged-for greater involvement.