Countering Hate With Art
In recent months, we’ve been watching and experiencing a rise in verbal abuse, shunning, and violent assaults on Asian Americans during the COVID-19 crisis. Since the STOP AAPI HATE reporting center began tracking incidents, there have been over 1,100 reports of coronavirus discrimination in just the first two weeks alone. Women received harassment at twice the rate of men, and children were involved in 6.3% of incidents.
At The Slants Foundation, we believe that art can play an important role in addressing hate by helping shift the conversation around racism and working to change the culture. Whether it is reappropriation, irony and satire, or expressions rooted in identity, we know that art can neuter hate. Art doesn’t just see the world for what it is, but for what it can be.
During this time, we would like to support the work of artist-activists by offering grants to those working to address racism using their work.
TYPES OF ART SOUGHT
We are seeking art that sparks conversations about racism using compassion and empathy in an unconventional manner. More specifically, these are works that resemble an open letter to those who are directing negative and hateful acts towards Asians and Asian Americans. While their actions are not tolerated, we understand that hate is often fueled by pain, ignorance, and shame. We are looking for works of art that can build bridges with others by exploring ideas through an open letter. What kinds of questions would you ask? What do you wish those who are directing these racist ideas would see or understand?
For ideas and inspiration, see:
Life After Hate (and the work of Christian Picciolini), a former Neo-Nazi leader who now works to help individuals leave violent hate groups. See his TED talk here.
How to Talk with a White Supremacist, a TEDx talk by Simon Tam
Jimmy Wong’s Ching Chong! Asians in the LIbrary Song
While it is important for encouragement and inspiration, we’re not looking for works that address the Asian American community. Rather, we’re looking for works that drive empathy and compassion.
HOW TO RECEIVE FUNDING
Any form of art (visual, musical, performance, film, poetry/writing, etc.) that fits the criteria above is welcome.
The work does not have to be new, as long as it meets the criteria and reflects the values we wish to share.
We request that you share your work on social media, tag The Slants Foundation (@theslantsfound on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram), and discuss how you are using art to address anti-Asian racism during this time. We’ll share as much of it as possible across our platforms and in our networks as well.
Complete the form below.
A volunteer committee will review the works and contact you with information about payment (and/or other opportunities).
Submissions will be accepted through May 31, 2020.