HOMANITY

There are about 6,500 spoken languages in the world, but just one that we can all understand—music. No matter the language in which a song is written or the culture that inspires it, music reaches us on an emotional level. No wonder it has been a tool for self-expression for centuries.

The musicians who’ve lent their voices and talents to HOMANITY are drawing on that same tradition. HOMANITY is the first compilation album that features prominent Iranian artists as it tries to raise awareness about the censorship and persecution of artists in Iran. While music is an integral part of Iranian culture, the government continues to impose stringent limits on its distribution. Entire subjects and genres are off limits, as are entire genders. Even in 2022, it’s illegal for a woman to sing or perform music in public.

HOMANITY, which has been featured in Rolling Stone, speaks up for those who can’t. It’s a showcase that celebrates censored art and artists, no matter their gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation. Our grant will help HOMANITY pay for artists’ production costs and advertise around the world so that more people can listen to its message of freedom, understanding, and acceptance. You have to admit—it’s pretty catchy.