We Are Alternate ROOTS

We are a coalition of artists and cultural workers in the US South, working together to create a better world.

As a member-driven national network, our mission is to support a distinct segment of the arts and culture field – artists who make work in, with, by, for, and about their communities, and those whose cultural work strives for justice.

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We Are Our Members

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The work of Alternate ROOTS is the work of our members.

Artists and cultural workers based in the US South creating original art rooted in their communities. Joining ROOTS is the first step into a vibrant community that creates impactful art and supports each other along the way.

Become a member

We Are Our Members

The work of Alternate ROOTS is the work of our members.

Artists and cultural workers based in the US South creating original art rooted in their communities. Joining ROOTS is the first step into a vibrant community that creates impactful art and supports each other along the way.

Become a member

We Support Artists

Alternate ROOTS’ programs provide vital financial resources to our members.

Our funding programs distribute project grants, professional development dollars, and operational support to artists and cultural workers across the South.

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We Build Community

For fifty years, community building has been at the center of everything we do.

Through all our gatherings – ROOTS Week, Rhizomes, Work Groups, and more – we provide space for justice-loving cultural workers to gather and grow together. Alongside our partner organizations we build coalitions across the South and the nation, ensuring that art and culture are interwoven in justice movements. At every gathering we hold – even the virtual ones! – we place art and culture at the center, nurturing the relationships and people power needed to create a better world, together.

Check out our calendar for a full listing of all in-person and virtual events.

Learn more

We Build Community

For fifty years, community building has been at the center of everything we do.

Through all our gatherings – ROOTS Week, Rhizomes, Work Groups, and more – we provide space for justice-loving cultural workers to gather and grow together. Alongside our partner organizations we build coalitions across the South and the nation, ensuring that art and culture are interwoven in justice movements. At every gathering we hold – even the virtual ones! – we place art and culture at the center, nurturing the relationships and people power needed to create a better world, together.

Check out our calendar for a full listing of all in-person and virtual events.

Learn more
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Give To Artists Creating a Better World

Your donation helps Alternate ROOTS artists weave the fabric of our country and beyond.

Our members impact the communities in which they live, creating transformation grounded in art and culture. Your dollars go toward direct support to these changemakers through grants, partnerships, travel stipends, and technical assistance.
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Get Involved

Alternate ROOTS members are encouraged to actively participate in the work of the organization. You’ll find dozens of ways get involved throughout the year on our calendar.
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Get Involved

Alternate ROOTS members are encouraged to actively participate in the work of the organization. You’ll find dozens of ways get involved throughout the year on our calendar.

Person drawing