Presents the proceedings of a panel discussion organized by the Grantmakers in the Arts to showcase program models and research related to the impact of artistic expression on the assimilation process of immigrants and refugees. Anthroplogist Pia Moriarty describes participatory arts performances, such as an autumnal dragon dance by Vietnamese Americans and historical reenactments by intergenerational Aztec performers, which allow newcomers to bond with their native traditions and bridge into a new society. Folklore and ethnographic expert, Laura Marcus, sets up a program in Portland, Oregon, that uses a folklore specialist to assess refugee and immigrant artists as they enter the country and link them with resources needed to continue their art or even earn a living using their skills. Another group uses a sewing circle to promote cross-cultural education and displays an exhibit of the sewing projects to open communication among immigrant senior citizens. Panelist Carolyn Bye, executive director of an arts council serving Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota, discusses criteria used to determine small grants that support the arts in the immigrant communities: (1) define the community you serve and its needs, (2) explore the diversity of ethnicities or age, and (3) ensure open and available access. Additional information on educating immigrant communities about grant opportunities to fund artistic projects and workshops for immigrant artists emphasizes the importance of being flexible in the definition of “art.” (IP)
