Diversity in Local History
Forecasted
Diversity in Local History supports emerging heritage professionals and Washington history organizations through paid internships that make local history practices more inclusive and broaden the stories told.
Funder: Washington State Historical Society
Due Dates (Anticipated): April 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $25,000 per project
Summary: Funds paid internships that help Washington heritage organizations develop inclusive history practices and broaden the stories they tell.
Key Information: Grants reimburse eligible costs after payment; applicants must document sufficient cash on hand to pay an intern.
Description
Funded by the Washington State Legislature and administered by the Washington State Historical Society (WSHS), Diversity in Local History pairs emerging heritage professionals with Washington history organizations for paid internships. The competitive program supports work that integrates inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA) into an organization’s practices and culture. Organizations may apply regardless of their existing experience with IDEA work.
Internship projects may address operations, collections, programming, exhibits, archives, or community engagement. Examples include improving exhibit accessibility, identifying gaps in collections, consulting with local Tribal nations about shared history, and researching stories of underrepresented groups. The program aims to help organizations better reflect and serve their communities while giving emerging professionals hands-on experience.
