Mission
The Who We Are National Project is a Chicago-based 501c3 nonprofit organization that aims to create meaningful transformations to support personal and societal well-being through the use of photography. Each photograph engages the viewer in reflecting on who we are and who we want to become. Together the collections communicate the cultural core values of a community and celebrate the people whose contributions have helped shape American society. Our vision is to strengthen interconnectedness by enhancing cross-cultural understanding of diversity as a fundamental pillar of communities in Chicago and throughout the United States.
Building on the success of the Asi Somos debut exhibit of 111 life-sized photographs in Museo de las Americas in Old San Juan, the Black Culture in Chicago project was created. Featuring dynamic photographic images, these two exhibits are part of the Who We Are National Project, which carries the simple, yet bold message of what it means to be Puerto Rican and what it means to be African American.
Beyond these specific cultures, peoples of other backgrounds will connect with our common humanity. The strength and uniqueness of each project derive from the participation of community in community advisory committees, which provide active advice, guidance and support in identifying the subjects of the photographs and the relevant messages for each community.
Questions or feedback? Please visit our Contact page.
Who We Are National Project was recognized with three 2023 International iNova Awards honoring international excellence in corporate websites including the 2023 Grand Award for Best Non-Profit Website, and Gold awards for writing & art direction and photography.
Who We Are National Project was awarded a Silver 2022 iNova Award for excellence in Non-Profit website excellence.
Who We Are National Project's Black Culture in Chicago website was recognized with 2019 International iNova Awards for excellence in Photography (Gold Award) and Website Design (Silver Award).
Who We Are | National Project has been recognized with the 2022 Candid Gold Transparency seal for excellence in non-profit transparency and accountability.