StoryBook's actions & continued work toward equity, inclusivity, diversity and accessibility
Our Commitment to our Community
As the world around rose up, it was important for StoryBook to take the time and look inward. We have had and continue to have difficult and inspiring conversations amongst ourselves, our artists, and the community we serve.
“Children are the future, teach them well, let them lead the way.”
Linda Creed & Michael Masser
In our 46 years of work, we know that we have made mistakes.
We acknowledge our privilege, we own our failings, and we hold ourselves accountable to our past, present and the future that lies ahead. We will continue to learn from our missteps and allow those to guide our decisions now and over the next 43 years.
“Careful the things you say, children will listen.”
Stephen Sondheim
The work we do each and every day is in service to our young people, our future, and our community builders of tomorrow. It is time to lead by example. It is time for our community to give up more of our privileged space to the voices of our BIPOC community and show our young people what their future can be. By doing this, we are allowing those young people the platform they will need to lead the way. The work we do today will inform the world we want and need tomorrow.
Now, more than ever, StoryBook understands the duty we have to stand against racism in our organization and our communities. We need to actively work hard to amplify the voices of our Black, Indigenous, other People of Colour, LGBTQ2+, persons with disabilities and all marginalized groups in this community we call home.
No matter the work we have done in the past, we know we can do better.
We must do better.
We are listening.
We are learning.
We are taking action.
"Each child belongs to all of us and they will bring us a tomorrow in direct relation to the responsibility we have shown to them."
Maya Angelou
A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT
As a Black woman, I am proud to work with StoryBook.
For nearly 20 years I have had the privilege of being part of the StoryBook family. I have performed on stage, worked as a stage manager, a production team member, and have served as a board member. I have always felt safe, supported and valued.
As a woman of colour, it matters to me that others feel the same in our organization, and in the community at large. I am proud of the work that StoryBook does for our community, and I hope everyone will see our values and our heart reflected in these commitments. I am happy to be a part of the change.
Jolene Anderson,
President - StoryBook Theatre Society