John Haworth recently retired after many years as the Senior Executive for the National Museum of the American Indian. In addition to managing public programs, exhibitions, and outreach projects, John collaborated with Native communities on a broad range of public programs and special projects to ensure that the museum addressed their diverse needs. He is a member of the Cherokee Nation.  John has been a friend for … Continue reading Fighting on the Frontlines for Diversity and Inclusion in the Arts on behalf of the Native American Community: A Conversation with John Haworth

In the article “Diversity Matters: Theoretical Understanding of and Suggestions for the Current Fundraising Practices of Nonprofit Art Museums.” Dr. Yuha Jung of the University of Kentucky provides a map that has the potential to change how museums do business with communities of color when it comes to fundraising. Based on extensive research, Dr. Jung outlines how current fundraising practices of the majority of U.S. … Continue reading Black Philanthropy and the Arts by Donna Walker-Kuhne

At the age of 18, my twin sister, Patricia, and I spent a semester abroad in Europe. The experience was pivotal, revelatory and transformative. By the time we returned home, I believe I had a deeper understanding of who I was as a woman; a Black woman, and an American. Later in life, I realized that understanding different cultures not only stimulates curiosity, imagination and … Continue reading Expanding the Bridge Between Harlem and Havana

For nearly 100 years, the Harlem neighborhood of New York has been renowned for being the birthplace of the cultural, social, literary and artistic movements that documented, heralded and celebrated African-American life. Thanks to The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce, the legacy of the Harlem Renaissance continues to thrive through the organization’s involvement with cultural events, including jazz concerts, theatrical and dance performances, film and … Continue reading Harlem’s Ongoing Arts and Cultural Renaissance – The Model for My Work

April is Jazz Appreciation Month, which culminates with International Jazz Day on April 30, 2017. Throughout the month, there have been events across the country dedicated to sharing the history, tradition, vibrancy and vitality of jazz. International Jazz Day, first established by the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2011, brings together communities, schools, artists, historians, academics, and jazz enthusiasts on all … Continue reading Give ‘em jazz! By Donna Walker-Kuhne In honor of International Jazz Month

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Big Apple! Arts and Cultural Management Tour of New York City, a joint venture between my company, Walker International Communications Group (New York), and Kape Communications Pty Ltd (Melbourne). The project was born out of our mutual desire to deepen cultural understanding and exposure to New York-based arts organizations that are mission-driven and focused on engaging diverse … Continue reading Marking 10 Years of Fighting for Cultural Understanding

In the fall of 2016, I was invited by the United States Embassy in Moscow to participate in a week-long Forum for Cultural Engagement. This was my third speaking engagement for this program. I invited a Connecticut-based, bright, young talent in the field of digital marketing, Dexter Upshaw Jr, to accompany me. Our workshop was titled “Innovation! Community Engagement and Digital Marketing for the Arts.” The … Continue reading Bridges to Cross the Divide

The Devil whispered in my ear, “You’re not strong enough to withstand the storm” Today I whispered in the Devil’s ear, I am the storm.” I first read this quote on Facebook right after the 2016 U.S. Presidential election. It was a wake-up call. Under the Obama administration, the respect and support of the arts made me feel safe and protected. But I realized that … Continue reading I Am the Storm

Dear Colleague, Imagine a world without theater, music, dance, visual arts, books or the support of our essential cultural institutions. Unfortunately, the current political climate has awakened us all to the possibility that we may be standing at the threshold of what could become be a dark, abysmal and soulless landscape. Against that backdrop, today, I am launching my new blog to champion the arts, … Continue reading Welcome to My Blog: Arts and Culture Connections