WHY NOW?
The stark inequity in Chicago’s art sector, and the widespread social, cultural, and economic inequality that it produces, is unacceptable. The FAME Center has a plan to answer this call.
This is a historic moment of opportunity to change the system. In the Illinois State legislature’s Spring session approved the creation of a state Creative Economy Taskforce to investigate the needs of Illinois’ art industry, and they will soon begin actively seeking community engagement for identifying supportive policy solutions. It will never be easier to secure state and local support for our vision.
The City of Chicago’s Department of Culture, Arts, and Special Events (DCASE) and major civil society players like the Chicago Community Trust and the Illinois Arts Alliance have a mandate to close the racial wealth gap and build a more equitable art sector in Chicago. All of the right players are aligned to feed the momentum required for change.
It is the perfect moment to build a movement.
Our plan for moving through this window of opportunity with the greatest efficiency and impact as possible is built on three pillars that require support.
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
WHY US?
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The FAME Center is uniquely positioned to lead the South Loop Center for the Arts (SLCA) campaign, thanks to our deep connection to the building, our strong community ties, and our unwavering commitment to expanding access to arts education.
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Intimate Knowledge of the Space: Since 2020, the FAME Center has been a tenant in the very building that we now seek to transform into the South Loop Center for the Arts. Our time here has given us unparalleled insight into the space, its potential, and its significance to the community. We know the building inside and out, from its historic character to its modern needs, making us the ideal stewards for its next chapter.
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Mission-Driven Leadership: At the heart of the FAME Center is our mission to expand access to arts education, particularly for communities in Chicago that have been historically excluded from the arts. This project aligns perfectly with our impact area, as it allows us to create a permanent home for inclusive, high-quality arts education in a location that bridges the North and South sides of the city. Our focus on accessibility and equity ensures that the SLCA will serve as a beacon of opportunity for all.
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Established Community Relationships: The FAME Center has been rooted in the South Loop since 2018, building strong relationships with local residents, businesses, and organizations. We have working partnerships to provide programs in 3 South Loop schools. Our history in this community has fostered trust and collaboration, making us well-equipped to rally support and ensure that the SLCA reflects the needs and aspirations of the South Loop and beyond
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Diverse and Inclusive Leadership: Our leadership team reflects the diversity of the communities we serve, ensuring that our goals of correcting the balance of equity in the arts remain central to the SLCA’s operations. This commitment to diversity in leadership is not just a value—it is a strategic approach that guides our decision-making and strengthens our ability to create a space where everyone feels represented and included.
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The FAME Center’s deep knowledge of the building, strong community ties, mission-driven focus, and diverse leadership make us the right organization to lead this campaign. We are not just envisioning a future for the South Loop Center for the Arts—we are ready to bring it to life, ensuring that it serves as a vibrant, inclusive, and transformative space for generations to come.