Baltimore mayor promises arts grants to non-white groups, thanks Biden for Covid-relief funds making it possible

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott has announced that he will be directing funds from the American Rescue Plan Act to local art groups, first prioritizing groups that are not white-owned.

“For too long, public dollars have simply just gone to the big names and the big players in town," Scott said in his announcement. "And dare I say, I know my staff is going to hate this, the big names and big players in town that just happen to be white-ran organizations in Baltimore."

Scott announced that the funds are from a $3.6 million “Diversity in Arts” grant that was funded by Covid-19 relief. The mayor went on to thank President Biden and the congressional delegation for their support in helping the city ensure that “all artists and communities have equitable access to resources and opportunities in Baltimore.”

“Baltimore has always been a city defined by the arts, and our art community remains a cornerstone of our city's identity, reflecting our history, diversity, and resilience,” Scott added. “Baltimore’s arts community has always been there to express what this city is about, often giving a voice to the voiceless."

According to a report by FOX Baltimore, Capital grant recipients include The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum and the Reginald F. Lewis Museum. Grant funding under this program will be dispersed to 24 project recipients, including Baltimore Center Stage and Creative Nomads, with allocations of $200,000 and $100,000 respectively. Creative Nomads is recognized for its contributions to promoting “African drumming” and “mindfulness” to its partners.