Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Ballet Memphis

DEI and Culture Statement:

Ballet Memphis works to sustain an environment that is consciously inclusive of all races, ages, religions, sexual identities, gender expressions, and abilities. We renounce racism as well as any other system or structure that perpetuates exclusion and causes harm. Our excellence derives from our diversity and we commit to continuously challenging ourselves as well as old ideas and outdated norms that hinder the full celebration of our collective humanity.

Work to-date:
  • Conducted an organizational assessment and stock take to better define Ballet Memphis’s purpose, priorities, and long-term program agenda; developed a DEI and Culture statement to be a foundational tenet of organization’s core principles
  • Established and activated a Transformation Working Group comprised of a cross-section of Ballet Memphis stakeholders of color and allies, including: board, staff, and professional company representatives
  • Redesigned the professional company evaluation process to ensure transparency, increased equity, and open communication opportunities (including upward feedback)
  • Conducted quarterly organization-wide “all hands” meetings to build cohesion and increase system-wide information share
Ongoing Activities and Emerging Work:
  • Ensure all functional areas and program pillars have measurable goals aligned with Ballet Memphis’s overall DEI strategy
  • Within the annual budgeting and planning process, allocate funds toward organization’s DEI goals
  • Continue to convene the Transformation Working Group to develop a portfolio of ongoing work to support the organization’s DEI goals
  • Schedule and conduct ongoing board and staff DEI trainings
  • Conduct accessibility assessments of Ballet Memphis headquarters and satellite location so as to provide a comfortable, safe and inclusive environment for all constituent groups
  • Continue redesign of Ballet Memphis’s community engagement and outreach strategy; pilot new programming beginning fall 2021