MESSAGE FROM THE ACTING CHAIRMAN

Message from the Acting Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts

Photo courtesy of Ann Eilers Thank you for joining us as we celebrate our 2021 National Heritage Fellows.

Over the past 20 months, amidst uncertainty, fear, and grief, these men and women have never stopped giving us moments of joy and beauty. Whether we’ve felt the rhythm of rondalla move through our bodies as we listen to the music of Tagumpay Mendoza De Leon, or marveled at the delicate designs of Nellie Vera Sánchez’s mundillo lace, the incredible artworks created by our 2021 honorees has been a spiritual panacea in the midst of this pandemic.

These culture bearers have been a source of healing as we’ve collectively confronted systemic injustice. Many of our fellows come from communities that have been marginalized throughout American history. But their values, customs, and traditions share stories and histories that move us by their beauty, and awe us with their richness. Whether it’s foundational traditions such as the spiritual practice performed by the Winnsboro Easter Rock Ensemble, or the Osage ribbon work of Anna Fields, these art forms offer a bridge to understanding and appreciating diverse American experiences that have been overlooked by far too many for far too long.

As performers like Cedric Burnside and Los Lobos begin to welcome audiences back, we are reminded anew of our fellows’ unique ability to bring us together, connect us, and unite us. And as we learn their stories in The Culture of America: A Cross-Country Visit with the 2021 National Heritage Fellows, we thank them for giving us yet another reason to come together and celebrate.

Ann Eilers Acting Chairman, National Endowment for the Arts