The Open Society Institute (OSI) offers a fellowship competition in response to critical issues laid bare by Hurricane Katrina. Katrina’s aftermath placed in sharp relief persistent problems of poverty, racism, and government neglect plaguing the United States. Just five months after the destruction of New Orleans and other parts of the Gulf Region, the public’s attention has, for the most part, shifted elsewhere. By supporting in-depth journalism and media projects, OSI aims to stimulate and sustain a national conversation on these issues.

OSI expects to award 12–15 fellowships in mid-May 2006. Fellows will receive between $15,000–$35,000 to carry out projects in print, radio, photography, and documentary film and video production. Award amounts will cover a stipend and project expenses and will vary depending on the project duration, medium, and costs involved. The fellowship term begins June 15, 2006.

Applicants must be mid-career or veteran print or radio journalists, photographers, or documentary filmmakers with proven track records as serious media-makers. Applicants may be affiliated with news organizations or may be freelance journalists, photographers, or filmmakers. They should have well-established records of publication, dissemination, or broadcast in regional or national markets.

Applicants should propose projects that will expand and deepen the public’s understanding of race and class inequalities in the United States.