What began as a collegiate student organization at Howard University in 2016 has grown into an international nonprofit that administers research programs, exhibitions, and residencies in seven countries, uplifting authentic minority voices on cultural identity, freedom, and environmentalism.
With over seven years of experience managing government, corporate, and philanthropic initiatives, the SON Foundation champions cultural resilience and wellness through humanities, health, and heritage programming. Collaborations with Tribal and non-Tribal governments, policymakers, academic institutions, artists, architects, activists, and grassroots organizations strengthen our mission to drive social change and amplify underrepresented voices. Guided by the Jemez Principles of Democratic Organizing and the State of Black Nonprofits Report, we promote balanced representation on national and global stages.
Our philanthropic journey began in 2017 in Washington, D.C. and Gallup, New Mexico, near the Navajo Nation, and expanded in 2019 through the Art and Research Expansion Initiative, fostering culturally-rooted artistic programs that encourage creative expression and heritage preservation. In 2021, we relocated to Lower Manhattan to foster new partnerships for space reclamation, progressive cultural representation, and neo-healing experimentation.
Our vision is to fund large-scale artistic and research projects—drawing inspiration from Renaissance patronage—that explore cultural transformation and space reclamation. As we embrace this new chapter, we seek allies who value contemporary art and believe in reimagining society through innovative lenses.
We invite you to stand with us as we strive to make a lasting impact. Together, we can be the voice—and the eye—that drives change.
