The Julian C. Dixon Institute for Cultural Studies marked its official launch with a reception on May 19 th at the Natural History Museum. The launch signals the beginning of the exciting work here at the Dixon Institute.

As the role of museums continue to change, the Julian C. Dixon Institute for Cultural Studies works to supplement the mission of the Natural History Museum, “to inspire wonder, discovery and responsibility for our natural and cultural worlds,” as well as chart a new direction for museum practice.

It is an exciting time for Los Angeles as the city is experiencing rapid change that is increasing its diversity. As this change occurs, the question remains, how can societies understand and think about the many forms of diversity as an asset. To respond to this, Julian C. Dixon Institute for Cultural Studies approaches programming and research as an opportunity to facilitate critical thinking around relevant issues that impact the communities of Los Angeles and beyond.

Our work brings together different disciplines and in doing so we are fortunate to be able to work with universities, other cultural institutions as well as community based organizations.

It is the opportunity to contribute to the intellectual and cultural fabric of Los Angeles that makes the work of the Julian C. Dixon Institute for Cultural Studies especially relevant. In the future, we hope that you will have the opportunity to engage the ideas of the Julian C. Dixon Institute for Cultural Studies and participate in our programs.

Sincerely,

Raymond Codrington, Ph.D.