“Here is a powerful antidote to eulogies proclaiming the demise of the humanities.” -Laurie Zierer, executive director of PA Humanities

In 2019, we partnered with PennPraxis, the center for applied research and practice at the University of Pennsylvania Stuart Weitzman School of Design, to look at how the humanities are contributing to civic engagement, creative placemaking, and community development across the nation.

Together we explored PA Humanities’ work alongside numerous organizations, funders, and practitioners pursuing similar initiatives across the country. The research revealed synergies between the humanities and the broader work of community development, with exciting possibilities for future collaborations between the fields. The research also highlights the recovery and growth work employed to take action for their communities during 2020, offering further examples of how the humanities can be a force for equitable social change.