Centering arts innovation in Philadelphia

On May 10, 2022, I was proud and grateful for the opportunity to represent the Chen Lok Lee Legacy Project at the Sachs Program for Arts Innovation 2022 Grantee Awards Celebration. It was lovely to be in person with the other 2020 and 2021 grantees. Congratulations to this year’s winners!

Featured from Left to Right: Professor Sharon Hayes, Chair of Sachs Program for Arts Innovation, Romana Lee-Akiyama, Founding Director, Chen Lok Lee Legacy Project, Professor Fariha Khan, Co-Director, Asian American Studies Program at Penn, and Aisha Zia Khan, Executive Director & President, Twelve Gates Arts.

I believe that arts can be used as a vehicle for social change. We are so grateful for the initial investment and support that we received to “kick start” the Chen Lok Lee Legacy Project. Sachs’ recognition of our vision, commitment and potential has been instrumental to us being able to take the project even further.

Lastly, I am glad to be in alignment with our grantor that is ensuring that diversity, equity, inclusion and anti-racism is centered in their fund and grantmaking process. We need more of this in the arts communities and institutions. Thank you Sachs for leading the way!