Roberto Bedoya. (he/him), profound writer and the former Cultural Affairs Manager for the City of Oakland, CA where he shepherded the City's Cultural Plan titled "Belonging in Oakland: A Cultural Development Plan". Through-out his career he has consistently supported artists-centered cultural practices and advocated for expanded definitions of inclusion and belonging in cultural sector. Known as the ‘Godfather of Belonging, his noted essays have reframed the discussion on exclusionary practices in cultural policy decision-making. Mr. Bedoya is the recipient of the United States Artist 2021 Berresford Prize, given annually to a cultural practitioner who has contributed significantly to the advancement, well-being, and care of artists in society.