Explore the power of ideas
Using literature, history, philosophy, and culture, the MHC brings people together in conversation that crosses social, economic, and cultural barriers.
Featured Programs
In 1965, the National Foundation on the Arts and the Humanities Act created the NEA and the NEH as separate, independent agencies. From the founding legislation: “…it is necessary and appropriate for the Federal Government to help create and sustain…a climate encouraging freedom of thought, imagination, and inquiry…”
In 2016, the NEH’s budget represented just 0.003% of federal spending.
Number of state and jurisdictional humanities councils
Number of communities served by council programs nationwide
Number of organizations partnering with councils nationwide
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Featured news & announcements
Fall 2017 Veterans Book Groups
Sep 26, 2017
We are offering several book groups to all Maine Veterans / Former Service Members in the fall of 2017. Groups may focus on one longer text, like the Odyssey, or instead read selected short stories, novels, memoirs, historical texts, essays, or poems related to the experience of military service.... read more
Screening and Discussion of “Neither Wolf Nor Dog”
Sep 12, 2017
The Maine Humanities Council will lead a short discussion after the 7pm viewing of the film Neither Wolf Nor Dog on Tuesday, September 19th at Railroad Square Cinema in Waterville. Panelists Esther Anne and Penthea Burns of Maine–Wabanaki REACH and Jackie Crow Shoe of the Center for Tribes will share their thoughts on issues raised in the... read more
Storytelling workshop comes to Rangeley
Aug 17, 2017
Originally published on August 16, 2017 in the Daily Bulldog “…events are part of Western Maine Storytelling’s ‘A Community Celebration of Stories!’ – a series of workshops and informal storytelling gatherings in four area towns—Livermore Falls, Wilton, Rangeley, and Farmington. All is made possible by grants from the... read more
Panel discussion on women’s rights in Maine
Aug 11, 2017
Originally published on August 10, 2017 on Seacoast Online “The presentation will include a discussion of Maine women’s rights history and a panel discussion on women’s ongoing equality battle in the state, with three women of varying ages and experiences…the Third Thursday Talks are generously supported by the... read more
