Future Is Black, fiscally sponsored by Xliberator Network, is a dynamic platform committed to empowering underrepresented creatives, amplifying their voices, and transforming cultural narratives. Guided by their mission to catalyze artistic expression and foster a profound sense of belonging, they have created an inclusive ecosystem rooted in joy, healing, remembrance, critical thought, and connectivity.
The Adventures of Pussy Jones, fiscally sponsored by Kelly Strayhorn Theater, is a “DaDa cabaret” and Artificial Intelligence hallucination that utilizes ensemble-based physical theater practices in service of a comedy centered around the theme: “The Politics of Femininity.” Greater Good Productions is working on a workshop presentation of this original theatre piece to perform here in Pittsburgh and at the Women in Theatre Festival in New York City in June 2025.
Cave Canem is committed to cultivating the artistic and professional growth of Black poets. Founded by artists for artists, Cave Canem fosters community across the diaspora to enrich the field by facilitating a nurturing space in which to learn, experiment, create, and present. Cave Canem develops audiences for Black voices that have worked and are working in the craft of poetry.
Rainbow Serpent seeks to advance Black LGBTQ culture through the exploration of multimedia art, innovative healing protocols, African cosmologies, and emerging technologies. We are dedicated to celebrating the diversity and richness of Black LGBTQ culture while promoting healing and empowerment within the community. We contribute to the cultural vibrancy of the Pittsburgh region through exposing the public to the multidimensional richness and depth of Black LGBTQ cultural and spiritual traditions. We are also dedicated to providing multiple types of support for the local Black LGBTQ community, including employment opportunities, residencies, mentorship, collaboration, and targeted retreats. This local focus has national and international impact, as Rainbow Serpent’s sponsored artwork has been exhibited across this country, Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East and our programming has drawn many international participants. We endeavor to create a more visible and resilient Black LGBTQ culture, and we support work that strives to eradicate systemic racism, homophobia, sexism, and other harmful hierarchies.
Michiyaya Dance Company is a queer-led dance company that pushes boundaries and centers the divine feminine by creating space for multidisciplinary performances and programming.
Filipino American Association of Pittsburgh preserves, promotes, and perpetuates Filipino heritage through cultural, charitable, and educational activities. They serve predominantly immigrants or people of Asian descent, and envision a dynamic immigrant community recognized and valued as integral to Pittsburgh’s ethnic diversity. Their cultural dance program advances this mission, instilling pride and confidence in the community.
Pittsburgh Center for Creative Reuse inspires creativity, conservation, and community engagement through reuse. They operate a non-traditional art supply shop located at the intersection of Wilkinsburg, Homewood, and Point Breeze, where people can donate used art and craft supplies, as well as shop for these unique items all in the same location. They also facilitate hands-on creative programming that educates the public about the benefits of reuse for the environment, community, and self. They see reuse as a vehicle for boosting self-confidence, learning new skills, and creating opportunity for all.
Crafting the Future works to increase access to creative enrichment by connecting BIPOC artists with opportunities that will help them thrive.
Westmoreland Performing Arts gives students of all backgrounds and beliefs the skills to become independent, creative thinkers, critical problem solvers, and successful collaborators. They promote physical and emotional well-being through performing arts classes and live performances that take place in a safe, accepting and non-judgmental environment.
The Society to Preserve the Millvale Murals of Maxo Vanka conserves and protects for permanent public exhibition the nationally recognized Maxo Vanka murals within St. Nicholas Croatian Catholic Church in Pittsburgh, enabling the immigrant artist’s “gift to America” to serve as an enduring catalyst for community engagement and education, inspire social and cultural dialogue, celebrate diversity, and forge connections through reflections on the extraordinary American experience.