Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Anti-Racism
Theatre@First has embarked on a process of learning, reflection, and action to improve equity, diversity, and inclusion within our organization in order to create anti-racist theatre and community. The pages in this section explore different aspects of our ongoing journey. We welcome your feedback and hope you will get involved in this essential process.
We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which Theatre@First creates our work and the ongoing harm done to its people. Resources are provided for those interested in learning more.
Statements from our Steering Committee in solidarity with communities targeted by hate and resources for additional information and further action.
A description of this newly created position and information about the election process.
Specific equity, diversity and inclusion and anti-racist goals and the policies Theatre@First has enacted to achieve those priorities.
This non-exhaustive list provides non-police resources in the Somerville area.
The commitment we make to act and interact in ways that contribute to an open, welcoming, diverse, inclusive, and healthy community.
Our process for resolving incidents that violate our Code of Conduct and restoring justice within our community.
The pledge we require all directors to commit to as part of the application process to lead a production at Theatre@First.
Details about the learning process required of all Theatre@First directors and Steering Committee officers.
Additional Actions
As a measure of accountability and transparency, we maintain this list of actions not mentioned above that we have undertaken in order to create an open, welcoming, diverse, inclusive, and healthy anti-racist community. If you have suggestions for further actions, or would like an update on our anti-racism journey, please email us.
teaming up with leaders of other local theatres to find resources, support, and accountability for our actions
adding regular accountability reports to our Steering Committee agenda
adding BIPOC-centered shows to our monthly recommendations to Steering Committee
initiating reading groups (AllStage and A Wider Shelf) to focus on scripts written by BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ authors
making the Theatre@First social media forums a space for antiracist theatre resources, links, and discussion
raising funds for Black Lives Matter through our online participation in Somerville's ArtBeat 2020 festival
instituting a Travel Stipend for all mainstage production participants traveling more than five miles from their homes to our rehearsal/performance spaces
adopting a Season Planning Process designed to reduce barriers to participation and empower greater diversity of scripts and directors