Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Statement of Intent
Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble is committed to being an agent of positive social change and an organization that supports the safety and dignity of all human beings through the art we create and the structure by which that art is created.
We acknowledge our privileges and commit to use them to celebrate stories of all races, gender identities, sexualities, abilities, and economic situations. We hold ourselves accountable to foster an inclusive community reflective of the full range of human experience.
In the spirit of ongoing and transparent commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, we put forth this living document as a testament to our goal of institutional transformation.
For the purposes of this document, BTE identifies its stakeholders as our staff, artists, board members, volunteers, donors, audiences, community members, funding agencies, and our creative colleagues across the nation.
DEFINITIONS
DIVERSITY means acknowledging and respecting human qualities that are different from our own and outside the groups we are a part of or with which we are associated. These qualities include but are not limited to: ethnicity, race, color, country of origin, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, age, sexual or relationship orientation, family structure, religion, beliefs, political affiliations, experiences, and ability differences.
EQUITY means acknowledging that not everyone starts at the same place. Achieving equity requires identifying and eliminating barriers to access and opportunity that prevent full and fair participation.
INCLUSION means authentically bringing traditionally excluded individuals and/or groups into processes, activities, and decision/policy making in a way that shares power and ensures equal access to opportunities and resources. Inclusion honors and accepts the gifts, backgrounds, experiences, and wisdom that every individual brings with them, so that every stakeholder feels valued by Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble.
Our Commitments
BTE expresses thanks to Dallas Theatre Center, The Anthropologists, and Theatre for Young Audiences whose work on anti-racism we consulted in the creation of this document.
To increase the presence of Black, Indigenous, Persons of Color, and LGBTQA+ individuals as guest artists, administrators, and board members.
To create opportunities and agency throughout our season for BIPOC and LGBTQA+ artists through our artistic programming, artistic leadership, and through presented and special events.
To review our organizational practices to promote a healthy creative space.
To create an online resource center for fellow educators and artists working towards equity, diversity, and inclusion.
To partner with regional organizations that empower underrepresented and marginalized communities.
To improve accessibility and increase opportunities for individuals with special needs or differing abilities through education, employment and volunteerism.
To develop sustained professional and artistic relationships with the BIPOC community from across the region.
To annually share measurable data of our progress.
To develop an audience who will support the creative work of BIPOC and LGBTQA+ artists.