Durham’s Cultural Roadmap Invites Community Voices to Shape Arts, History, and Legacy
Durham, NC – Durham’s creative future is taking shape, and the community has a seat at the table. MJR Partners, a nationally recognized arts management firm, is leading the next phase of the Durham Cultural Roadmap, a citywide plan designed to reflect Durham’s vibrant arts and cultural identity. Residents are encouraged to share their voices at the upcoming Arts Town Hall on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at 6:00 PM at the Holton Career & Resource Center.
About the Durham Cultural Roadmap
The Durham Cultural Roadmap is a multi-year planning process focused on equitable community engagement and cultural policy development. Since 2023, the City of Durham and Durham County Public Art Programs have gathered input through listening sessions, surveys, workshops, and interviews. The plan’s final recommendations will be presented to the community and local government leaders in late 2025 and early 2026.
MJR Partners at the Helm
MJR Partners, under the leadership of Margie Johnson Reese, is guiding Phase II and III of the Cultural Roadmap. With over 35 years in arts administration, Reese has shaped national and international cultural policy, including leadership roles in Dallas, Los Angeles, and Nigeria with the Ford Foundation. She has been instrumental in advancing equity in the arts and continues to mentor a new generation of leaders through the National Leaders of Color Fellowship.
Her expertise ensures Durham’s roadmap will center inclusion, fairness, and accountability while honoring the city’s unique cultural history.
Why This Matters for Durham
The Cultural Roadmap is not just a plan—it’s a blueprint for how arts, culture, and public life can thrive together. By amplifying local voices—including artists, performers, and writers—Durham is setting the stage for sustainable growth and authentic representation.
Get Involved
Arts Town Hall
Thursday, September 25, 2025 | 6:00 PM
Holton Career & Resource Center
401 N Driver St, Durham, NC 27703
Share your input now: Community Survey
MJR Partners invites all Durham residents to bring their ideas, stories, and visions for a more creative and inclusive cultural future.