Walton Family Foundation Supports LEH Coastal Initiative

The Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities is pleased to announce a $198,150 grant award from The Walton Family Foundation to support a two-year, statewide initiative focusing on the challenges that communities face along Louisiana’s coast. The funds will support sustained coverage of coastal issues in Louisiana Cultural Vistas, the LEH’s quarterly magazine, the 2018 Water/Ways Museum on Main Street exhibition, the next installment in the LEH’s partnership with the Smithsonian Institution; and the production of documentary films highlighting coastal restoration and preservation efforts now underway in Louisiana.

“We’re grateful for The Walton Family Foundation’s support,” said LEH Executive Director Miranda Restovic. “This initiative allows us to work with communities, journalists, and filmmakers to spark a truly statewide dialogue about the future of our coast. We firmly believe that a humanities spotlight will educate new audiences to Louisiana’s challenges as it confronts wetlands loss.”

Kristin Tracz, Walton Family Foundation Gulf of Mexico Program Officer, added “The Walton Family Foundation is excited to partner with the LEH to showcase stories and voices from coastal communities, as we together grapple with the challenges of a disappearing coast, and look for opportunities to be found in restoration.”

Watch the trailer for the “WaterWays” films commissioned by LEH:

The Smithsonian Institute Museum on Main Street exhibition will visit these communities as part of the “WaterWays” initiative:

• Zion Traveler’s Cooperative Center, Braithwaite, June 23-August 4
• Old City Hall Museum, Denham Springs, August 11-September 22
• Schepis Museum, Columbia, September 29-November 10
• Louisiana 4-H Foundation Grant Walker Camp, Pollock, November 17-December 29
• Zigler Art Museum, Jennings, January 5-February 16
• Jeanerette Museum, Jeanerette, September 23-April 6