The 2026 Cultural Week of Action will take place October 27-November 3. However, in the spirit of promoting a culture of everyday democracy and civic action, you are invited to host an event anytime between August and November 3 and it will be featured on our map!
How is the Cultural Week of Action connected to the DemocracyIs: campaign?
DemocracyIs: is a national campaign from Race Forward that deepens our understanding of democracy as a practice of belonging, participation, and shared governance. This calls for us to tell the truth about our history, collectively define what a racially just democracy must look like, and organize to make it real.
The Cultural Week of Action is one way communities can bring that vision to life. Through cultural events, storytelling, public gatherings, art, collective learning, and community activations, CWA invites communities to show what participatory democracy looks like in everyday life.
How can I participate?
You can participate by signing up to be a Community Partner and hosting an event or activation in your community to be featured on our national map. You can submit your project here.
What types of activities can I lead for Cultural Week of Action?
Below are a few examples of events and activities you can pursue to engage your community, but we encourage you to get creative! For support with planning, check out our CWA toolkit here.
Public installations or murals that celebrate racial justice and democratic movements.
Teach-ins and storytelling events that reclaim banned histories and elevate lived experience.
Pop-up exhibits or art shows on themes like freedom, community, and resistance.
Community assemblies or forums on local democratic participation and racial equity.
Faith gatherings focused on healing and spiritual grounding.
Youth-led actions or performances highlighting their vision of the future.
Can I participate with an existing event I am hosting?
We know that our partners, collaborators, and networks are already leading important cultural activations and events. If you’re already hosting a cultural event or activation between August and November 3 that channels joy, connection, and solidarity in service of everyday democracy– we would love to help you spread the word by adding it to our map!
What does it mean to be an Organizing Partner?
As an Organizing Partner, you will receive:
Promotion of your work via the CWA map and Race Forward social media channels
Access to dedicated Office Hours with Race Forward’s CWA lead to discuss your CWA plans and any available resources or network connections
Discounts to training and convenings, including our 2026 Facing Race conference in Raleigh, NC.
To sign up to be an Organizing Partner, fill out our intake form here.
Can I host more than one event?
Yes, but you must submit each event separately.
Are there any funds available for hosting an event?
Currently, there are no funds available, but we will notify participants if this changes.
Can the event be held online?
Yes, you can host a Cultural Week of Action event online or in-person and be featured on our map. If you’re hosting a public event, we can even share links!
