Founded by Paul English alongside Demond Martin, Dr. Kia Martin, Rev. Liz Walker, and Rev. Jeffrey Brown, Embrace Boston works at the intersection of arts, culture, community, and research to advance a more inclusive and equitable Boston. The Festival is one of the organization’s signature programs, rooted in civic dialogue, creative expression, and community empowerment.

The 2025 Festival was emceed by NBC10 Boston’s Latoyia Edwards and featured remarks from top state and city leaders. Governor Maura Healey, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, and Boston Mayor Michelle Wu each addressed the importance of public leadership that embraces equity, creativity, and community collaboration.

At MassArt, community engagement is deeply embedded in our mission, culture, and curriculum. Collaborations with organizations like Embrace Boston reflect our ongoing commitment to art and design as forces to shape communities, economies, and cultures for the common good.