Dear Friend,

As we reflect on this transformative year, we’re thrilled to share a few highlights from our work in 2023. 

This year, MDC engaged in a spectrum of activities and initiatives. Our advocacy efforts gained momentum, accompanied by increased public outreach through conferences and State of the South gatherings. With generous support from The Kresge Foundation, South Arts, and Duke University Social Science Research Center, State of the South events explored the question, What if equity was a universally-held Southern value, much like hospitality or generosity?  

In conversations throughout the region and online, MDC listened to communities as they reflected on root causes of racial and economic injustice and thought big about what it would take to shape a South where all people thrive.  

Here's a snapshot of what we accomplished with your support:

•    Omar ibn Said: A Conversation Between Dr. Youssef Carter and Dr. William Spriggs, hosted in partnership with Carolina Performing Arts at the University of North Carolina (UNC) Chapel Hill | Chapel Hill, NC
•    Disrupting the Cycle of Housing Displacement and Gentrification, hosted in partnership with the Avery Research Center for African American History and Culture | Charleston, SC
•    State of the South: Central Appalachia, hosted in partnership with Brushy Fork Leadership Institute, a strategic initiative of Berea College | Berea, KY
•    Closing the Healthcare Coverage Gap in Alabama, hosted in partnership with Alabama Arise and Southern Research | Birmingham, AL

•    Click here for more, images, video and content from State of the South events and gatherings. 

In 2024 we’ll continue to (re)imagine systems and work to build community that empowers all who call the South their home. (Be sure to check out our Impact Report, available in January, for much more on our work in 2023).

We hope you’ll consider supporting our work by making a special year-end gift. You can give by clicking the button below.