Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Project

An initiative of the First Nations Arts Alliance & Franciscan & Friends

The Multiculturalism & Anti Racism Project is committed to the Truth & Reconciliation Commission Action #83

“A strategy for Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists to undertake collaborative projects and produce works that contribute to the reconciliation process.”

Anti Racism Panel

Friday February 23, 10am-2pm
c-Space Marda Loop
1721-29 Ave. SW
Tickets $25

GET YOUR TICKETS HERE!

Franciscan and Friends Mission Statement

To bring hope to vulnerable and isolated people and inspire them to reach their fullest potential through a variety of creative programs. Our target population includes First Nations, the homeless, the addicted and the poor. Our medium is arts and culture.

First Nations Arts Alliance

Franciscan and Friends has played an instrumental role in developing First Nations Arts Alliance , a new province-wide collaboration uniting and empowering Indigenous artists. This short video tells the story of the great friendship between Kirby Smith and Denis Grady that formed the basis for the Alliance and how that partnership helped save Smith’s life.

Growth

Through friendships like the one between Denis and Kirby, Franciscan and Friends has joined forces with First Nations Bands in the region, including Tsuut’ina, Siksika, Piikani and Kainai Bands, as well as many youth, elders, and other Indigenous stakeholders. In the past five years, we have developed trusted working relationships with First Nations Bands, funders, Indigenous community groups, cultural organizations, community organizations, major donors and businesses. Out of this has come growth.
In 2018, growth was fueled by $175,000 from Alberta Community Social Services and $175,000 from private partners for the First Nations Music Project. It was followed by a $45,000 research phase funded entirely by private partners to help us listen and learn from our partners. Then we received $350,000 from the Civil Society Fund from the Government of Alberta for the Indigenous Community Circles project. The growth continues to this day. Franciscan and Friends now has 3 full-time staff, one part-time business manager and 75 active Indigenous and (non-Indigenous) volunteers.