We Stand Against Racism
We are being called to examine the ways we contribute to systems of oppression—both subtle and overt—and form a plan to create meaningful change.
Dear atac Community,
During this time of incredible grief and trauma, ātac stands in solidarity with our communities who are engaging in the courageous struggle for freedom and justice. Black Lives Matter. ātac: downtown arts + music explicitly condemns police brutality and all violence toward the Black community due to structural racism and systemic oppression.
We acknowledge that words alone are not enough. We are being called to examine the ways we contribute to systems of oppression - both subtle and overt - and form a plan to create meaningful change.
ātac is a historically majority-white organization within an incredibly diverse community. As cultural leaders, it is imperative that we engage in anti-racism work to identify and eliminate practices within our organization that contribute in any way to systemic oppression. The leadership and staff are committed to the hard work required to ensure that we can truly represent the creative forces of our city.
Through diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion training for our board and staff, we will increase professional and creative opportunities for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) staff, artists, and performers. Our goal is a cultural change that intentionally values diversity in leadership, creative representation, and community.
What happens when we dare to imagine something that has yet to exist? We put pen to paper, we measure, we mix, we strum a few chords, and pause to retune.
We practice. We learn. We grow.
Here at ātac we know about the passion of creativity. We have seen the transformation that comes from dedication to one’s craft. We aim to commit ourselves to justice within our organization with the same dedication and passion to do our part to create a better world.
Sincerely,
Jannelle Codianni
Executive Director
Lynne Damianos
Board Chair
Check out these resources for getting started with anti-racism work:
Anti-racism Resources Google Doc with links!
