Cultural Workshops Grant – Central High National Historic Site – CHSC

1.Continue to expand the awareness of Central High National Historic Site, and the story of the Little Rock Nine via the No Tears project, using Oxford American’s national media distribution channels and these events, specifically through engagement with audiences at (2) workshops, (2) panel discussions, and (2) performances – one each in Little Rock and New Orleans in fall 2020 (Target 500 people in each city to attend the combination of events)

2. Present workshop/masterclasses on the use of music and creative expression in civil rights storytelling with at least 50 jazz music students at each class in each city

3. Present free to the public panel discussions in conjunction with civil rights/humanities scholars that deepen the publics understanding of contemporary civil rights issues using the Central High Crisis as the historical framework for the discussion

Provide access to 2 performances of No Tears to the widest audience possible, giving the public the opportunity to experience excellent original art created by contemporary musicians

Drive increased site visits to both Central High National Historic Site and New Orleans Jazz National Historic Site through the events themselves and the longer tail effect of Oxford American hosting and promoting these events via its media streams  The purpose of this project is to expand the awareness of CHSC and associated narratives of the Little Rock Nine via No Tears Suite through workshops, panel discussions and live performances inclusive of Dillard and Southern University students in New Orleans and Philander Smith College Social Justice Department and Arkansas Peace and Justice organization. The live performances and education workshops should be able to reach between 600 and 800 participants. Beyond immediate attendance, we expect that interest in the events will generate additional media attention nationally and internationally about the rich musical history and culture of Little Rock, AR.  Task 1: Planning and Development of the No Tears Suite Programs

-The recipient, park staff, and musicians will meet to plan and develop the format of the workshops and discuss the essentials needs to execute the programs.

– NPS will help secure venues for the programs in Little Rock, AR and New Orleans, LA.

– Work with local artists and activists to create dialogue programs

The planning and development will take place between May 1, 2020 and September 1, 2020.

Task 2: Two performances and dialogue programs of No Tears Suite

– September 24-25, 2020 Little Rock will host the first performance. This event will be in conjunction with the 63rd anniversary of the desegregation crisis at Central High School.

– November 2020 New Orleans will host the second performance.

Task 3: Write narrative reports about the outcome of events.

The project will conclude by March 31, 2021.