Baltimore mayor criticizes funding for arts, says it lacks diversity.

Baltimore City Mayor Brandon Scott recently shared his disappointment with the distribution of public funds on April 16th. He expressed concern that the majority of the funds were allocated to arts organizations that happen to be run by white individuals. This comes after the announcement of a nearly $4 million "Diversity in Arts" grant provided by a bank for COVID-19 relief efforts. The grant will benefit a range of organizations, including the National Great Blacks In Wax Museum and the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, both located on North Avenue.

Mayor Scott stated, "For too long, public money has been funneled towards well-known and influential organizations, often overlooking smaller, more diverse groups. And, if I may be frank, many of these well-known organizations happen to be run by white individuals here in Baltimore." He also took the opportunity to thank President Biden and Maryland's congressional delegation for their support in his efforts to secure more equitable federal funding.

The grant will also support 24 "project" recipients, such as Baltimore Center Stage and Creative Nomads, with allocations of $200,000 and $100,000 respectively. According to Mayor Scott, "Baltimore has always been a city defined by its vibrant arts scene, and our artistic community is a vital part of our city's identity. It represents our history, diversity, and resilience. The arts have the power to give a voice to those who are often unheard."

Wally Pinkard, chairman of the Hippodrome Foundation, shared his optimism for the potential impact of this funding on promoting more inclusive funding practices in the future. He stated, "I hope that the excitement surrounding this week's funding announcement, coupled with the frustration felt by arts organizations that were excluded from receiving an ARPA award, will spark important conversations about making the arts more accessible and inclusive for all."

In a related article, Mayor Scott addressed being labeled as a "DEI mayor" and pushed back against the notion of being solely defined by this label. He stated, "What they really mean is a duly elected incumbent mayor, who happens to be a person of color, who is implementing policies and practices that prioritize equity and inclusion for all Baltimore residents." Mayor Scott remains committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of the city's government and public services.

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