Anne Feeney Hellraiser Memorial Fund Supports Artists Advancing Social Justice

Introduction

The Anne Feeney Hellraiser Memorial Fund has announced a new round of grants aimed at supporting emerging artists engaged in social movements for justice. This initiative honors the legacy of Anne Feeney, a legendary folk musician and activist known for her commitment to fighting fascism and promoting solidarity.

Grant Details and Objectives

1. The fund will award three grants of up to $1,000 each to emerging artists from any discipline.
2. Recipients are selected based on their creation of art that supports social justice movements.
3. Past recipients include notable artists such as Neffy, winner of NPR’s Tiny Desk contest, and labor-rapper Mickey O’Brien.

Legacy and Impact

• Evan Greer, a musician and activist, highlighted Anne Feeney’s role in mentoring young artists and fostering a lifelong commitment to activism and solidarity.
• Feeney emphasized the importance of material support for emerging artists, beyond encouragement alone.
• The fund continues Feeney’s work by providing essential resources to artists on the frontlines of social justice.

Application Process and Support

1. Applications for the 2025 grants opened recently and will close on August 18, 2025.
2. Grant winners will be announced on Labor Day, September 1, 2025.
3. Interested applicants can apply through the official application portal.
4. The fund is fiscally sponsored by the Labor Heritage Foundation.
5. Donations to support the fund are welcomed and can be made via the Labor Heritage Foundation’s website.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – By empowering artists advocating for social justice, the fund contributes to reducing inequalities and promoting inclusive societies.
• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions – Supporting art that challenges fascism and promotes solidarity aligns with fostering peaceful and just communities.
• SDG 4: Quality Education – The mentorship and material support provided to emerging artists enhance their skills and capacity to contribute meaningfully to social movements.
• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Providing financial grants helps artists sustain their careers, promoting decent work and economic opportunities in the creative sector.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – The article highlights support for artists engaged in social movements for justice, which aligns with reducing inequalities.
2. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions – The fight against fascism and promotion of solidarity relate to fostering peaceful and inclusive societies.
3. SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Supporting emerging artists with grants to sustain their careers relates to promoting decent work and economic opportunities.
4. SDG 4: Quality Education – The mentorship and knowledge transfer from Anne Feeney to younger artists imply aspects of education and lifelong learning.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs Identified

1. SDG 10
   • Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all.
2. SDG 16
   • Target 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels.
   • Target 16.10: Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms.
3. SDG 8
   • Target 8.3: Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities and decent job creation.
4. SDG 4
   • Target 4.4: Increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills for employment and entrepreneurship.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Number of grants awarded to emerging artists – The article mentions three grants of up to $1,000 each, which can be tracked as an indicator of support provided.
2. Career advancement of grant recipients – Examples like Neffy winning NPR’s Tiny Desk contest imply measuring success and impact of support on artists’ careers.
3. Participation in social movements – The involvement of artists in social justice and anti-fascism movements can be an indicator of social inclusion and activism.
4. Mentorship and knowledge transfer – The mentorship role played by Anne Feeney suggests measuring the number of mentorships or educational opportunities provided.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: labornotes.org