Nikki Miller <3 The Cedar Cultural Center!

For decades, the Cedar Cultural Center has played an essential role in the global arts scene, as well as in the Cedar-Riverside community and, of course, in my heart. Long before I joined their board, I stood in the crowd with my camera and pen trying to capture the magic that happens when artists from around the world step from that storied green room and on to that humble, warm stage. Neighbors later cleared bench space for me to rest my back and ankles while carrying a very heavy baby Virgil - still in utero - during a Bill Callahan show. Now I have the privilege of serving on their board, and it’s clearer to me than ever before how much we need inclusive, thoughtful, community-centered spaces like these. These are the gathering places where cultures meet, neighbors become audience mates and audience mates become neighbors, and music bridges understanding among people who might never otherwise cross paths.

When you walk into the space, it’s easy to see how rare and precious it is - a nonprofit arts organization that centers global voices, nurtures emerging artists, and welcomes everyone through its doors. From intimate acoustic sets to high-energy dance nights, the Cedar is a beacon of creativity and joy in our community, and it survives because people who love it choose to support it. 

If the Cedar has ever given you a moment of joy, discovery, or connection - or you simply want to support places that do - I hope you’ll join me in giving back. Together, we can ensure this important hub for global music continues to thrive for future audiences and artists, for generations to come.