Civic Engagement

Could the arts and humanities fuel an engaged citizenry?

A man in a brown jacket stands in front of blue bulletin board that is covered with papers and advertisements
University of California Berkely campus. Photo: Elena Zhukova for Mellon Foundation

The arts and humanities allow us to interpret and share our human experience. They connect, inspire, and educate us to become more informed and engaged citizens. Mellon is continuously creating and fostering an exchange of learning for a more engaged civic body.

In black and white, three demonstrators from the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee stand together, holding hands
Duke University
Living History From One Generation to the Next with the SNCC Legacy Project
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Two students sit in front of a building that is in the style of modern architecture.
Civic Nation
A Nonpartisan Initiative Empowers College Students to Go ALL IN as Voters and Engaged Citizens
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Beyond Granite

What if the commemoration of the American story were up to you? 

A person raises their arms in dance while they are wearing headphones.
Design Trust for Public Space, Inc.
Four Ways Turnout NYC Is Changing Community-Based Performing Arts
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October 26, 2022
Op-Ed: My family taught me ‘the act of voting is democracy made manifest’
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