Massachusetts Foundation for the Humanities

**Who we are** Mass Humanities brings people together to embrace different perspectives, inspire civic engagement, spark conversation and build community. **What are the humanities** The humanities are the lessons provided by our ancestors and the messages we pass on to future generations. The humanities are the ways we communicate our hopes and fears to our fellow human beings. History, literature and philosophy help us respond to essential questions: What is the right thing to do? What do I owe to my family, my community, my country? When we come together to address these questions, to learn and share our stories, we practice the public humanities. We believe the humanities are the key to a democracy where everyone values cultural knowledge, civil discourse, and diverse perspectives. Over the past five decades, Mass Humanities has helped thousands of people realize this potential and improve society through grants, programs and public events. **OUR MISSION** **We create opportunities for the people of Massachusetts to transform their lives and build a more equitable Commonwealth through the humanities.** **AT OUR CORE** **WE BELIEVE the people of Massachusetts can thrive only when the humanities are accessible to all**