DDP’s President and Founder, Elizabeth Yntema, was interviewed for AWA Dance

Northfield, IL | March 6th, 2025 | Dance Data Project® (DDP) President and Founder, Elizabeth Yntema, was recently interviewed for AWA Dance’s “Women Who Move Us” series, where she shared insights on leadership, equity in the arts, and the challenges facing women in dance. Yntema, whose career has spanned labor law, public policy, philanthropy, and arts advocacy, discussed her journey from volunteer work to founding DDP, an organization dedicated to promoting gender equity in classical ballet through data-driven research. She reflected on the societal and structural barriers that hold women back in dance, particularly the unacknowledged privilege of men, the undervaluation of women’s labor, and the need for greater economic and policy literacy among female artists. Drawing from her background in legislation and workforce equity, Yntema emphasized the importance of transparency, fair pay, and accountability in dance institutions. She also spoke candidly about the lessons she’s learned, including the importance of trusting herself despite resistance, and the need for continuous adaptation and iteration in advocacy work. Looking forward, Yntema plans to expand DDP’s efforts into commercial dance and media, particularly addressing the ethical concerns surrounding AI’s impact on creative industries. Through her work, she continues to challenge the status quo, advocating for a dance world where women and girls have the resources, recognition, and respect they deserve.

View the interview here.

For more information on Dance Data Project® and our ongoing initiatives, please visit dancedataproject.com.