Diversity. Equity. Inclusion. Accessability

Arkansas Thespians is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment that celebrates the rich makeup of diversity within our state. We believe that the arts have the power to unite people from all backgrounds, and we strive to create a space where students, alumni, and adult members regardless of their identity or background, feel valued, heard, and empowered. 

​

Diversity: We recognize and embrace the unique qualities that each individual brings to our program. We celebrate diversity in all its forms, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, nationality, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, religion, ability, and cultural background. We believe that a diverse cast and crew enriches our organization and provides a more authentic representation of the world we live in. 

​

Equity: We are dedicated to promoting equity within our organization and theatre programs. We strive to provide access to resources, scholarships, and participation opportunities to ensure that all students have the chance to shine and grow as artists. We actively work to be mindful of student and teacher needs. 

​

Inclusion: Inclusivity is essential in the art of theatre and within our organization. We want to create an environment where all stakeholders and students feel a sense of belonging and are encouraged to express themselves. We actively seek out and value different perspectives, and we believe that diverse voices contribute to a richer creative process and more meaningful experiences, while being respectful and culturally aware. 

​

Accessibility: We desire to make our events and activities accessible to all people, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities. We strive to provide accommodations and support as needed to ensure that everyone can participate fully with as few barriers as possible. We acknowledge our accessibility efforts are new and growing and recognize that accessibility is an ongoing commitment. 

​

We understand that DEIA is not just a statement, but a continuous journey. We are committed to listening, learning, and growing as a program to better serve our students and our community. We encourage open dialogue, feedback, and collaboration from all members of our organization to help us continually improve and uphold these principles. 

 

By upholding these values of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility, we aim to not only create outstanding theatre experiences but also prepare our students to be compassionate, empathetic, and socially conscious individuals who will make a positive impact on the world beyond the stage.

Thespians