At a critical time for public arts funding, the BIPOC Art Network and Fund took a new bold action by investing over $400,000 to support 16 local organizations through the 2024 Cultural Treasure Accelerator (CTA) initiative.

According to the most recent US Census, Hispanics represent 44% of the city’s population. There is no doubt that Hispanics have a meaningful footprint on Houston’s identity, and preserving it has been the enduring commitment of three local organizations.

Houston has emerged as a significant cultural hub, now renowned for its extensive collection of over 850 murals, according to Houstonmuralmap.com. This vast array of street art places Houston among the top cities in the country.

The BANF (BIPOC Arts & Network Fund) highlights a series of events dedicated to celebrating Juneteenth. Held annually on June 19 to commemorate the ending of slavery on June 19, 1865, Juneteenth celebrates when Major General Gordon Granger ordered the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas at the end of the American Civil War.

As Summer approaches, Houston’s parents and educators seek enriching professional development opportunities for children. The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum recognized by the BIPOC Arts Network and Fund (BANF) 2023 as a Houston Cultural Treasure, is excited to announce a summer filled with enriching experiences for students and teachers.

Every community’s journey is filled with tales of resilience, particularly those of Asian artists and art organizations that have long been overshadowed by Western narratives. To celebrate Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, the BIPOC Arts Network & Fund (BANF) is spotlighting these groups’ contributions to Houston’s multicultural fabric through compelling community stories.

Under Poisot’s leadership, remarkable projects have come to life—each a celebration of heritage and the power of art to build community ties. Her efforts culminated in creating the “Filipinos in Houston” book, a significant milestone that answered a city mayor’s call for increased visibility of the Filipino community.

Applications are open and due on May 28, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. Notification and announcement will occur on September 2024.