AN ARTS COMMUNITY Two years ago, the Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo (ACGK) began intentional self-reflection in order to fully live into its name. Its board of directors had recently experienced a large changeover and new members were interested in exploring how the Arts Council could reach a more diverse group of people. “If our mission is to support art and artists in greater Kalamazoo it’s important to discuss who we are supporting now and who is missing from that conversation,” said Kristen Chesak, executive director of ACGK. “The first step to answering those questions was to examine ourselves. It was the only way we could be inclusive.” And until now, the conversation had never been had through the lens of justice and equity. “We were only asking about who we are not connecting with, not who isn’t at the table – and doesn’t want to be at the table – based on invisible stop signs and barriers
The Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo partnered with El Concilio to create a Day of the Dead altar in the Epic Center as part of an Art Hop last fall.
we unintentionally create.” The team approved a new strategic plan that created an internal structure and culture that supported “who the organization believes they need to be for the community.”
WellSpring Dance Company, Stulberg International String Competition and the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts were invited to attend the trainings at no cost.
The new plan led to a new vision, mission and values for
The workshops, hosted by consultant and educator Mia
the organization that center access, inspiration, dialogue,
Henry of Freedom Lifted, explore topics of identity, equity,
empathy and sustainability.
relationships and how they might affect interactions with
Hiring practices also changed to decrease institutional bias. It’s led to a more diverse staff and new voices in the room. ACGK didn’t stop with itself. They also wanted to bring other arts entities along with them on the journey.
patrons, audiences, the public and other artists. Over 50 members of the arts community attended the first workshop in January. Both the March and June workshops are almost full.
Through grant funding from the Kalamazoo Community
“Feedback has been positive,” Chesak said. “The goal was
Foundation, the Arts Council is hosting one-day justice
to come to the agreement that arts organizations have
and equity trainings tailored for arts organizations. Staff,
an internal culture and it is biased. Being on the same
board members and volunteers from local organizations
page helps us move forward together and opens up the
such as The Gilmore, Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra,
conversation.”
4 KALAMAZOO COMMUNITY FOUNDATION SPRING 2020
