3 minute read
DEI Framework
A NEW FRAMEWORK
FOR DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION
Addressing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion has risen to a new level of consciousness, both locally and nationally. Several prominent area organizations—most notably Muskegon Community College and the Community Foundation for Muskegon County—have demonstrated strong commitment to this cause. With connections to both organizations through shared board membership and other factors, WMS has gained new awareness and has been working quietly but intentionally to address this need for several years. An initial inflection point was the 2018 adoption of our Statement of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, followed by the convening of a new Leadership Council to explore ways to instill these values into our programming and community engagement.
Last season, we took the next step. A dedicated task force of Board, musicians and staff—under the guidance of a professional facilitator—spent the eight months between November and June developing a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Framework. Coincidentally, the League of American Orchestras—our industry’s primary service organization—was undergoing a similar process at almost the same time. Because of our membership in the League, we were able to compare and contrast our findings, benefitting from their wider resources and experience.
Intentional DEI work is incredibly challenging and humbling, and we freely admit that we have much to learn. We firmly believe in the universal value and relevance of the classical music art form, and we are committed to the process of dismantling the cultural and social barriers that inhibit many from experiencing it. The resulting DEI Framework, summarized below, was adopted by the Board of Directors in June and is now being incorporated into all of our strategic and operational planning.
DEI Steering Committee Leaders: Deanna Rolffs (facilitator), Music Director Scott Speck, CEO Andy Buelow, Board Chair Susan Cloutier-Crain, Noele Stith (facilitator)
BELIEFS
• Music and the arts increase belonging and connection • DEI work is essential to achieving our vision of a music-infused West Michigan • We have historically been a majority-white organization and art form, and we are committed to becoming more inclusive • Through DEI work we will bring new repertoire, new voices, and new relationships to the table
GOAL I
Become a community leader in advancing equity and inclusion through advocacy, dialogue and partnerships
• Increase engagement with and attendance by underrepresented audiences and neighborhoods.
Develop and deepen relationships with organizations led by and/or reaching underrepresented people.
GOAL II
Become a safe and welcoming organization that encompasses a plurality of voices and backgrounds, reflecting our diverse community
• Increase participation and belonging of underrepresented people within board, staff and orchestra. Invite, engage and include diverse community voices in reshaping the organization. Support and participate in national initiatives that foster increased opportunities for musicians of color. Update recruitment, hiring and workplace policies and practices to foster inclusivity.
GOAL III
Offer an inclusive musical repertoire for a broad audience
• Incorporate diverse composers and artists throughout programming. Engage community to gather input regarding inclusive programs. Research and, where appropriate, tap into national initiatives elevating music by underrepresented composers, artists and crossover groups.
GOAL IV
Increase access to instrumental and choral music and education, especially for underrepresented youth
• Provide new and existing education programs and look for ways to remove barriers (cost, transportation, etc.) for underrepresented youth. Gather input and engage with educators and school leaders. Explore residencies, music camps to further inclusive commitments of our artistic mission with youth.
GOAL V
Make DEI an organizational value through ongoing learning, growing, questioning and applying
• Conduct regular internal learning and application sessions, increase understanding of historical oppression nationally and regionally and how it impacts our community today, with special emphasis on its effect on access to music.
JOHN HEFFERNAN & RACHELE TORRES HARMONY PARK OPENING
