Why EDI for the Arts?
Corporate approaches don’t work for creative spaces.
Colorful casting, anti-racism statements and high-level trainings are just the tip of the iceberg for Equity, Diversity & Inclusion success. Arts spaces require nuanced, compassionate & flexible support.
Here’s why.
‘The Show Must Go On’
All the training in the world can’t stop the machine of a show. There’s no time and limited resources devoted to EDI work. But when artists continue to push through, no matter what, there are often lasting, negative (and sometimes traumatic and disastrous) effects.
Ever-Changing Work Environments
Artists charged with leadership, who direct, play, design or perform for each company, often don’t have access to EDI trainings or support. We also create new environments each time we meet to create art, and so we must create adequate systems to support each new space.
Front-Facing Diversity & Social Pressure
Critics want to see diversity on stage and screen right now. This often leads to short-term, performative action for applause and likes rather than deep, systemic change. And underrepresented artists get charged with the (unpaid) labor of EDI work on top of their job responsibilities.
Challenging & Triggering Creative Material
Unlike in other fields, artists are required to divulge their most vulnerable selves while at work, no matter the environment. Problematic classics, new works that address hot button issues, and everything in between must be navigated with intention and care.
‘The Show Must Go On’
All the training in the world can’t stop the machine of a show. There’s no time and limited resources devoted to EDI work. But when artists continue to push through, no matter what, there are often lasting, negative (and sometimes traumatic and disastrous) effects.
Ever-Changing Work Environments
Artists charged with leadership, who direct, play, design or perform for each company, often don’t have access to EDI trainings or support. We also create new environments each time we meet to create art, and so we must create adequate systems to support each new space.
Front-Facing Diversity & Social Pressure
Critics want to see diversity on stage and screen right now. This often leads to short-term, performative action for applause and likes rather than deep, systemic change. And underrepresented artists get charged with the (unpaid) labor of EDI work on top of their job responsibilities.
Challenging & Triggering Creative Material
Unlike in other fields, artists are required to divulge their most vulnerable selves while at work, no matter the environment. Problematic classics, new works that address hot button issues, and everything in between must be navigated with intention and care.
