SCR’s Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging
South Coast Repertory EDIB Value Statement
South Coast Repertory strives to create safe, accessible, and inclusive spaces for all to flourish in the pursuit of creating the finest theatre in the country. In recognition of the history of racism and intersecting oppression that theatre has contributed to, we activate and leverage our resources including time, money, and personnel in order to usher in necessary changes and make visible our commitments to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging. In order for us as an organization to reach our highest potential, we prioritize the well-being of staff, artists, audiences, volunteers, and our Board of Trustees through the use of people-first practices.
Key Terms
Equity: The recognition of systems of inequity (racism, sexism, heterosexism, ableism, etc.) that inherently benefit some while disadvantaging others. Taking action to ensure our resources are aimed at balancing opportunities and outcomes throughout our organization.
Diversity: The acknowledgement of the variety of lived experiences based on the social identities of individuals, and that as a result, some are regularly the target of unfair treatment. Intentionally broadening access so that the experiences of Black, Indigenous, Latine, Asian and Pacific Islander, and other people of color are amplified as we work to build an organization that reflects the communities in which we live.
Inclusion: Working to create an environment of safety, support, and accountability so that every member of our organization can feel confident that practices will be universally implemented. A commitment to realizing an organization where all people have access to pay increases, open communication is encouraged, and meetings are structured to elevate the voices of those who have been historically marginalized so that they are able to share and participate.
Belonging: Creating an environment that reflects the rich diversity of our community in every facet of our work and workplace. Prioritizing safety, and working to create structures that foster a deeper sense of connection and community in order to reinforce the contributions and value of each member.
Anti-Racism Statement
South Coast Repertory is committed to being an anti-racist theatre. This means we work to identify and dismantle structural/systemic inequities around race in our organization and community. As part of our efforts, we commit to create the conditions for BIPOC staff and artists, as well as those with other social identities, to feel safe and flourish in their work environment. In our pursuit of these goals, we will continue to dedicate a variety of resources including money, time, and personnel. In order to realize our commitment to diversity and excellence, South Coast Repertory intentionally fosters employment and advancement opportunities for those from BIPOC communities.
As we continue to educate ourselves and evolve, we are working with a professional EDIB (Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging) consultant, (R)EVOLVE Consulting, and are in the process of learning from staff, artists, and community members about their experiences with South Coast Repertory. We pledge to be open to all thoughts on how we can better ourselves in support of being an anti-racist theatre, and commit to being transparent in these conversations through consistent communication about what we have learned and progress towards our anti-racism goals.