Dance/USA Calling for Equity

By Isabelle Vail

9 May 2018

Dance/USA calls for “Equitable Culture” in the field,  but its statement is a little less deliberate and forthright regarding this change.

The statement reads, “We challenge and commit ourselves to celebrating our art form of physical expression while ensuring our field is a safe and equitable place for all. This is an opportunity for everyone in the dance field to audit themselves and their organizations and ask: Is the culture in my dance environment healthy? Are individuals who need to speak up empowered and given a supportive path to do so? Is everyone, in all levels and positions, educated about what behavior is inappropriate and about what constitutes an equitable workplace? Are the individuals in power respectful of everyone around them? None of us should be exempt from honestly conducting this personal evaluation.” A call for action, but without reference to any incidents that incite the need for such action.

Where is the mention of abuse at New York City Ballet? The inequitable representation of women at all levels of leadership and creativity? Dance/USA claims to be an advocate for progress and says it wishes to “support the cultural movement towards a more equitable future.” So, tell us, what’s next on the Dance/USA list to promote equity? Where is the research into the disparity? The organization moves the field forward, but with this statement online, we must also call Dance/USA to deliberate action – beyond making statements.

Read the full statement at Dance/USA