Future uncertain for international fest

When the Baton Rouge Center for World Affairs had to shut down its office on Government Street in April, director Monika Olivier relocated the non-profit to a bedroom in her house.

Tucked in the back, down a bright yellow hallway lined with artwork from previous center events, Olivier attempts to carry on business as usual. “I’m not going to let this die,” she says with a determined air.

Last December, the Metro Council voted against funding the BRCWA. The Council traditionally awards $115,000 to the non-profit, which comprises the majority of its $160,000 budget.

Olivier no longer receives a salary, and the BRCWA’s future looks grim if the Council doesn’t restore its funds in the next fiscal year.

While the Center holds many events intended to promote Baton Rouge’s diverse cultural makeup, it is perhaps best known for the International Heritage Celebration. The one-day event, usually held in October in front of the River Center, exposes residents to the food, music, dance, history and geography of nearly 50 countries.

“It’s unique,” Olivier says. “There’s nothing like it nearby. It’s not a commercial festival; it’s a celebration of diversity.”

The celebration plays a prominent role in connecting Baton Rouge to the rest of the world and aims to educate the community about a variety of cultures and populations.

“It’s a way for people to travel without leaving the city,” Olivier says.

Despite the International Heritage Celebration’s popularity, Olivier decided to cancel this year’s event. It was not an easy decision to reach—this would have marked the 15th anniversary of the event.

“I’ve had to look at things realistically,” she says. “Despite the overwhelming response we always receive from volunteers, we do not have the funds to hold the festival this year.”

Instead, she’s concentrating on next year’s celebration. She is looking at different financial options, such as federal grants, fundraisers and donations from the community, and hoping Baton Rouge will not lose such an important cultural event. “What we need more than anything is donations,” she says.

Baton Rouge residents can help by donating to the Center through their website at brcwa.com.