Mandel Center for the Humanities

Democracy in Danger Humanities Grants

In a national and global context of rising authoritarianism and attacks on human rights, what role do the humanities, humanities methods, and humanistic inquiry have to play in the defense of democratic values? 

The new Democracy in Danger  Humanities Grants from the Mandel Center for the Humanities fund humanistic projects that respond to pressing, immediate concerns in local communities. This includes  threats to health and security, restrictions on access to knowledge and information, and issues surrounding longer histories of marginalization and disenfranchisement.

Applications should describe the project, identify the budgetary need (including any funds to be directly given to the community), and explain the (broadly defined) humanistic approach. Applicants will be asked to provide more details of community impact and how such impact will be measured. (The Mandel Center for the Humanities is open to collaborating on the development of an impact plan. Please reach out if you would like to schedule a meeting). 

Collaborative projects across the humanities are especially encouraged. Brandeis faculty and grad students are eligible; maximum award is $2000. Grant winners will be asked for a short write-up following the completion of the project. Rolling deadline.

To Apply: Please send an application with the following information to Esha Senchaudhuri (esenchaudhuri@brandeis.edu)

Introduction with Name, position (faculty, grad student), department, and email address

1. In 1-2 paragraphs please outline the project and the humanistic approaches it utilizes.
2. In 1 paragraph please explain the impact this project will have on endangered democratic institutions. 
3. Please describe the budgetary needs and timeline.
4. In 1 paragraph please describe the communities that will be impacted by the work and how you intend to measure impact.