5. All funds received by the foundation, other than those necessary to pay the expenses of the foundation, shall be used exclusively for the establishment, support and promotion of the New Jersey Black Cultural and Heritage Initiative. The New Jersey Black Cultural and Heritage Initiative shall be an alliance of organizations and institutions that comprise the Black arts, history and culture communities in this State for the purpose of broadening, deepening and diversifying Statewide participation in and appreciation for Black arts, history and culture. The duties and goals of the initiative shall be to:

a. promote understanding and appreciation of the history and artistic and cultural contributions of people of African descent;

b. provide guidance, support and resources for new and emerging Black arts and historical groups and increase the level of organizational capacity and program administration of established groups;

c. increase funding and audiences for local Black culture and heritage tourism and enrich Black culture and heritage tourism programming;

d. increase and attract corporate sponsorship and participation in Black culture and heritage programming and tourism;

e. increase opportunities for young people to learn about and experience Black arts, history and culture in schools and youth organizations;

f. invest in future generations of Black artists and historians by providing leadership development activities, apprenticeships, mentorships, scholarships and cultural programs;

g. enhance computer and Internet access and usage within the Black community;

h. ensure the financial viability of the initiative through a network of community partners, advocates and supporters, including, but not limited to, celebrities, philanthropists, legislators, State and local leaders and corporations;

i. provide recommendations to the New Jersey Historical Commission in the Department of State on Black heritage sites for inclusion in the New Jersey Black Heritage Trail established pursuant to section 1 of P.L.2022, c.102 (C. 18A:73-25.9). Funds received by the foundation may be used to purchase, erect, and maintain historical markers as approved by the commission, indicating thereon the persons, places, or events commemorated and having such other suitable inscription as the commission may deem necessary; and

j. any other duties and goals deemed appropriate.

L.2005,c.47,s.5; amended by 2022, c.102, s.1.