Special Initiatives

MHC explores a 'top of the mind' issue (like race, education, or the environment today) by incorporating it into programs like Community Conversations, History Day, and the Speaker's Bureau.

MHC’s Special Initiatives invite Marylanders to explore issues—such as race relations, the environment, or local population growth—that touch ours lives and communities.

Often centered on a special anniversary or theme, these initiatives are highlighted by programming and events designed to encourage participants to delve deeper into the chosen subject.

The humanities play a vital role in these programs and events by providing the lens that allows participants to take a closer look at the issues that impact Marylanders.

Programming includes:

• Community Conversations uses literature, speeches, essays, flim clips, and other humanities materials as a springboard to discussion about critical issues.

• Initiative-related Speakers Bureau topics that send experts to all corners of the state to engage audiences in presentations and discussions.

• Special events that use performance, poetry, or debate to explore the initiative’s theme.

• Grantmaking that emphasizes Special Initiative subjects.