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.

BANF seeks leaders in the arts community, including independent artists, educators, patrons, community advocates and organizers. The selected reviewers will join BANF to engage in a peer-review process to consider applications for upcoming BANF opportunities. 

In celebration of Women’s History Month, the BIPOC Arts Network and Fund (BANF) proudly spotlights the monumental achievements of three distinguished women who have profoundly impacted Houston’s artistic and cultural fabric. Stacey Allen, Dr. Lavanya Rajagopalan, and Dr. Gabriela Baeza Ventura harnessed their unique talents and visions to challenge boundaries, inspire communities, and pave new pathways in their respective fields. BANF has recognized and supported their inspiring work to elevate community voices.

As a new organization, the BIPOC Arts Network and Fund works in the greater Houston area to bring together philanthropy, artists, and community leaders. We’re both a resource network and a place where people can learn from BIPOC arts communities.