Arts-led Conflict Transformation in the American Community
Looking Forward
Tuesday, October 18, 10:00am – 11:30am
Organized and moderated by Scott Stoner, Vice President, Programs and Resources, Association of Performing Arts Presenters.
Presented by Ebony Golden, CEO and Principle Engagement Strategist, Betty’s Daughter Arts Collaborative; and Michael Rohd, Director, Center for Performance and Civic Practice.
In January 2016, the Association of Performing Arts Presenters (APAP) hosted a forum to address “What Is the Role of the Arts Presenter in a Community in Crisis?” Artists and organization leaders presented examples of the unique and constructive role the arts can play in bringing about community “conflict transformation” applied to escalating threats from issues like human rights, racism, coexistence among marginalized populations (e.g., immigrants and gangs), cross-generational stressors, and environmental disasters. This session includes a snapshot of the exemplars presented and the critical thinking and ideas that arose from the discussion. A facilitated discussion with participants will follow on strategies for nurturing and supporting arts organizations (collaborating with grantmakers and new partners) to take a more activist role in strengthening and sustaining community cohesion.