Greetings and Happy New Year!
I’m Grace Allen, the new People Relations Specialist. It’s a pleasure to meet you and an honor to support such an extraordinary agency.
By way of background, my academic studies focused on communications, philosophy, and human rights law. However, I’ve always been an artist and an advocate at my core. Born and raised in the heart of Chicago’s grassroots theatre arts community, I deeply understand the intricate balance necessary to support artistic creation and diverse community representation.
Prior to joining CAH, I worked in the entertainment industry with companies such as SAG-AFTRA, NBCUniversal, along with several sister unions and community-based art agencies. Before transitioning into the entertainment industry, I worked as a restorative justice mediator, global advocate, and trauma-informed DEI liaison throughout Africa, Asia, and South America. I look forward to utilizing these skill sets to provide innovative ways to further the reach of your artistry and broaden the range of artists funded by this agency.
Aside from my personal artistry, I am an avid lover of the arts. I frequent ballets, operas, theatres, and galleries. I also appreciate the nuances of culture. In my hometown of Chicago, I frequented museums, enjoyed underground house music, and swore by our infamous “mild” sauce. Now that I’m in the District of Creatives, I plan to spend my spare time exploring all eight wards, testing out variations of mambo sauce, and deep diving into the incomparable go-go culture. I recognize and celebrate the fact that art is the heartbeat of DC. Thank you for supplying the art, projects, music, choreography, and programs that keep the District alive and thriving. Each of you have my deepest respect and heartfelt appreciation.