Operating Philosophy

The vision of the Salem Multicultural Institute and the purpose of the World Beat Festival are to create an environment of openness for all people. In all our activities, SMI aims to be family-friendly, economically inclusive, and culturally authentic. We believe that the key to establishing Salem and Oregon as a culturally rich and welcoming place is broad-based community involvement. Our operating philosophy has remained intact from the beginning: We all have something to learn from one another, and we all have something to teach.

Core Values

* Respect * Integrity * Authenticity * Quality * Inclusion * Professionalism * Balance

Salem Multicultural Institute and World Beat Overview

World Beat is the largest festival of its kind in Oregon, dedicated to celebrating the diversity of our many citizens who came from all over the world.

• The World Beat Festival®, World Beat Gallery and World Beat Performance and Lecture Series showcase the traditions, arts, culture and foods of many nations in the hope that all those who attend will have a chance to experience something new, exciting, and different.
• Through the gallery, festival and other cultural programs, the Salem Multicultural Institute raises awareness of our differences and points out our numerous similarities through education, exposure, experience, and inclusion.

The role of the Salem Multicultural Institute

• The World Beat Festival® and the World Beat Gallery provide venues to share and experience culture in a safe atmosphere.
• We give local ethnic communities a place to showcase and celebrate cherished cultural traditions with the broader community.
• Through the World Beat Festival® and other programs, Salem Multicultural Institute fosters understanding and respect among all members of the community.
• The World Beat Festival® and the World Beat Gallery help facilitate the true meaning of what it is to be a community – to gather families, friends, and neighbors; to enjoy the traditions that have given meaning to community life for generations; and to join with others in celebration.
• Our board and staff are often consulted by local community organizations, state agencies, media and schools for their multicultural expertise. In response to such requests, we have provided cultural referrals, led in-service training for teachers, arranged displays and performances for state agencies, and arranged for multilingual cultural performances at the Capitol and the Salem Public Library. The World Beat Performance and Lecture Series was developed to expand this community service and to complement the exhibits in the World Beat Gallery.