2002 Council on Foundations Conference Activities

Saturday, April 27

5:00-7:00 p.m.
Affinity Group Network Chocolate and Champagne Reception

Sunday, April 28

4:00-6:00 p.m.
Funders Concerned About AIDS Reception

Monday, April 29

9:00-11:00 a.m.
Disability Funders Network Business Meeting

2:00-3:30 p.m.
The Supreme Court’s Impact on Individual and States’ Rights

The Supreme Court’s recent shift toward a more conservative interpretation of the Constitution may have a significant impact on the lives of people with disabilities, people of color, gays and lesbians, immigrants, senior citizens and women. A panel of experts representing both sides of the issue will explore the impact of this trend on civil rights and civil liberties and look at how it relates to the concern over the possible curtailment of individual freedom in the interest of national security. The session will end with a participatory discussion of how grantmakers can respond to the changes in public policy brought about by the Court’s decisions.

Tuesday, April 30

2:30-5:30 p.m.
Gaining Access: A Multi-issue Approach to Funding

This site session is designed for a wide range of foundation staff interested in issues of access and equity and will include an overview of how an inclusive perspective enriches grantmaking in the areas of housing, domestic violence and education. It will be held at Access Living, a nationally recognized organization advocating for disability rights, where visitors will experience a barrier-free work environment.

6:30-9:00 p.m.
Disability Funders Network Reception — see invitation

9:00 p.m.-12:00 p.m.
Joint Affinity Groups (JAG) Reception

Wednesday, May 1

8:30-10:00 a.m.
Valuing Difference While Supporting Inclusion: Helping Diverse Artists Reach Mainstream Audiences

Diverse communities are finding their voices and expressing themselves through dance, music, theatre, storytelling and visual arts. While this helps to build group identity and adds to the colors of the American tapestry, these communities often perform only for themselves. To promote inclusiveness, the voices of diverse groups must be heard and seen on America’s mainstream stage. What role can foundations play in this undertaking? A portion of this session will be conducted in American Sign Language with an interpreter for hearing participants.

8:30-10:00 a.m. (concurrent session)
Is Philanthropy Keeping Pace with Our Diverse Communities? (Joint Affinity Group session)