Speaking Out Collective

Overview

Speaking Out Collective is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It focuses on using storytelling and story-making to foster curiosity and imagination in children, educators, and communities, particularly within the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota area.

Mission and Activities

The collective's mission is rooted in the arts, using tools such as poetry, music, dance, art, and puppets to encourage narrative creation and reimagination. They aim to ignite conversations, prompt change, and support innovation through arts-based programming, which includes residencies, curriculum development, performances, and professional development opportunities.

Focus Areas

• Arts and Education: Speaking Out Collective emphasizes the importance of arts engagement in education, working to dismantle systemic and racial inequities. They strive to ensure diverse communities see themselves represented in educational settings, celebrating diversity and valuing process over product.

• Critical Literacy and Curriculum Development: The organization prioritizes critical literacy as a foundational element of its programs. It collaborates with elders, scholars, teachers, and communities to develop inclusive, age-appropriate curricula that honor and celebrate BIPOC history and culture.

• Community Support: Activities extend beyond schools, involving community outreach through performances and art projects like puppet shows and murals. These efforts aim to support broader community engagement and dialogue.

Impact and Goals

Speaking Out Collective aims to empower children, educators, artists, and communities by providing culturally relevant programming. They seek to address complex social issues in a way that is developmentally appropriate, fostering deep thinking and creativity. Their work has been praised for its rigor and positive impact on students, particularly those who face significant challenges.

Organization Details

• Legal Status: 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
• EIN (Employer Identification Number): 842290474.

[1] https://www.speakingoutcollective.com [2] https://www.speakingoutcollective.com/history [3] https://www.instagram.com/speakingoutcollective/ [4] https://app.candid.org/profile/10952307 [5] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/842290474