Racial Equity Policies and Practices Define the Future of Local Arts Agencies

Tuesday, October 18, 10:00am – 11:30am

Organized by Randy Engstrom, Director, Seattle Office of Arts & Culture.

Presented by Randy Engstrom, Director, Seattle Office of Arts & Culture; Jennifer Cole, Executive Director, Metro Nashville Arts Commission; and Edwin Torres, Deputy Commissioner, New York City Department of Cultural Affairs.

There is a change in attitude and perception of the racialization of systems in our cities. Policies will drive practice in determining how communities will or have responded to protests of inequity and injustice. In some cities and states, this movement has clearly defined the future of political discourse. Others are in the throes of understanding how to change practice that addresses the institutionalized systems that keep ALAANA communities, artists, and arts groups from flourishing. Still others are in denial that there is any problem at all. The demand for racial equality has taken on a new dimension, a new strength, and a more honest approach. The arts will either be an example of policies that make a difference and change practice, or they will become irrelevant. Through an interactive process, this session will explore policies that lead to racial equity practice and and discuss practice that makes grantmaking more equitable.