Overview of the Shifting Sands Initiative

The sands are shifting rapidly in fast changing American neighborhoods. Whether because of new development agendas, communities that act as immigrant portals, or economic revitalization plans for lower-income neighborhoods, profound differences of language, culture, and vision pose big hurdles to building 21^st century social cohesion.

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Ford Foundation is challenging a range of neighborhood arts and cultural groups, including museums, community-based arts and cultural organizations and others to start bridging these gaps using the languages of art and culture, brokering common identity and facilitating shared vision. 

The basic idea is that arts organizations -- receptive, creative, resourceful -- can apply their talents to turn neighborhood tensions into opportunities for interaction. Rooted in their neighborhoods, and working in ways that naturally build trust, they can build community participation and boost residents' prospects for upward economic mobility. 

Even more important than the projects themselves is the very act of coming together, being good neighbors.  The Shifting Sands program seeks to build common vision, create tolerance, respect and boost economic prospects in rapidly changing neighborhoods.  Its goal is to support and broaden models of erstwhile adversaries engaged in novel partnerships through the magic of art and culture.

Read about the history and goals of the Shifting Sands Initiative>

Read about the theoretical framework of the Shifting Sands Initiative>

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