The Home Rule Music & Film Preservation Foundation is a Washington, D.C.–based nonprofit 501(c)(3) multimedia arts and education organization dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and advancing the city’s rich music and film heritage. Through live performance, documentary filmmaking, oral history projects, public education, and community-centered events, the Foundation uplifts local artists, documents cultural history, and creates meaningful opportunities for learning, creative expression, and cultural connection.
Founded in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic by Michael Bernstein and Charvis Campbell, the organization emerged in response to a critical moment for artists, cultural institutions, and community spaces across the District. At a time when live performance had largely disappeared and many creative voices were at risk of being lost or silenced, Home Rule was established to ensure that D.C.’s musical and cultural legacy would continue to be documented, supported, and shared.
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Our work reflects a deep commitment to equity, artistic excellence, and cultural preservation, ensuring that the stories, sounds, and creative contributions of Washington, D.C. are honored and sustained for future generations.
2025 Annual Report
The Home Rule Music & Film Preservation Foundation’s Annual Report highlights a year of significant artistic, community, and organizational growth. Through the Home Rule Music Festival, documentary and oral history projects, and youth-centered education programs, the Foundation engaged thousands of residents, supported local artists, and preserved Washington, D.C.’s rich cultural legacy.
With expanded partnerships, increased public investment, and a continued commitment to free and accessible programming, Home Rule deepened its impact across the city while laying a strong foundation for an even more ambitious year ahead.
We are committed to preserving and documenting the stories of Washington, D.C.’s rich and ever evolving music culture by capturing the lived experiences, creative journeys, and community impact of the artists, venues, producers, and cultural workers who have shaped the city’s sound. Through oral histories, documentary films, live performances, and educational programming, we ensure that D.C.’s musical legacy from jazz and go go to hip hop and experimental music is recorded, celebrated, and passed on to future generations, honoring both its pioneers and emerging voices.