NEW ORLEANS — Louisiana organizations are being invited to apply for mini grants to support local programming marking the 250th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.
The Parish America 250 Program Mini Grants are being offered through a partnership between the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities and the America 250 Louisiana State Commission. The program aims to fund public humanities initiatives that highlight Louisiana’s contributions to the founding and development of the United States.
Eligible applicants include parish governments, local tourism commissions, school boards and nonprofit organizations. Funded projects may include lectures, panel discussions, historical reenactments, theatrical productions, festivals, exhibits, public art installations, historical markers, school-related events and archival or museum acquisitions.
Grants of up to $1,500 are available.
Miranda Restovic, president and executive director of the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, said the initiative is intended to encourage communities to present their own historical narratives as part of the national commemoration.
Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser said the anniversary provides an opportunity to expand awareness of Louisiana’s role in early American history and to engage residents statewide.
Applications submitted by May 8 will receive priority consideration. After that date, submissions will be accepted on a rolling basis through Oct. 31, subject to funding availability.
State Rep. Mike Bayham, chairman of the Louisiana America 250 Commission, said the goal is to encourage participation across all 64 parishes and promote a statewide observance of the semiquincentennial.
Additional information and application details are available on the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities website.