Conversations with Nancy Margolis

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nancy Margolis.

Hi Nancy, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Embracing Our Differences Michigan is an art and education program promoting diversity: race, sex, LGBTQ, age, mental and physical challenges. I saw this program in Sarasota, Fla. Florida has been running the program for 20 years. With their inspiration and encouragement, I formed a non-profit in Ann Arbor, registered our name, and received federal tax-exempt status… I then met with over 70 local organizations to recruit their support. I hired part-time staff: art director, project manager, and education director. 

The showcase of the program are gorgeous giant banners in two parks. The art is from all over the world as well as local art. The artists arts are students and adults. The banners serve to stimulate discussion about diversity and how it can enhance our lives. We provide free field trips for schools as well as free workshops for teachers. Our goal is to bring about a society which is inclusive, welcoming, and kind. 

All of our funding has been donations from the county, the University of Michigan, Eastern Michigan University, Washtenaw Community College, businesses, and individuals. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has been amazingly successful due to a very generous community which understands the need for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice in schools, workplace, and home. 

The challenge will be to find sustaining funding. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I have spent my professional life in the non-profit world, working first in anti-poverty programming and now more recently in DEI programming. 

What matters most to you? Why?
I believe that people need to find ways to talk with each other, to understand our differences, and build on the strengths we share. A society is strengthened by its diversity. 

Contact Info:

• Website: EODMIchigan.org
• Instagram: embracingourdiffrencessemi
• Facebook: EODMichian
• Youtube: Embracing Our Differences Michigan