As the Artistic Director and Executive Director of the Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, we believe we have a profound responsibility as theatre makers to reckon with racial injustice, and to advance equity in society. Theatre is a powerful tool for social change. It fosters empathy, understanding and builds human connection. It also allows us to engage in difficult conversations. This summer, we have been listening to the voices of IBPOC (Indigenous, Black and People of Colour) artists in the theatre community, both nationally and locally, as they reveal uncomfortable truths about our sector. We recognize the emotional labour involved in these conversations, and we are deeply grateful to these artists for sharing the reality of their lived experience. As Canada’s oldest English-speaking regional theatre, we acknowledge that MTC has benefitted from colonial structures and the systemic racism that exists in our society. Since its founding, MTC has been a predominantly white-led institution, which has created inherent barriers for IBPOC communities who don’t feel welcome in our organization. We deeply apologize for the harm this has caused, and we commit to actively participating in the change required in our sector to address systemic racism. Today, we commit to making transformative change; to repair and reimagine MTC’s relationships with our community; and to build bridges with those who have been historically excluded or underserved by our theatre. With the support of our Board of Trustees, we will develop an Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-Racism Action Plan, a necessary first step to ensure that MTC will truly represent and reflect all Manitobans, and be a safe place for all who engage in theatre here. Through this process we will:
With the full support of our Board of Trustees, we are committed to instill anti-racist practices throughout our theatre and activities, including the Winnipeg Fringe. We will strive to be better allies and to leave this organization stronger, safer, more inclusive and representative of the community we live in; with our stages and audience filled with new faces, joining those who have enjoyed our theatre for many years; and with a Board, staff and leadership that values inclusivity as a true measure of success. We are deeply grateful to work on Treaty 1 land, the traditional territory of the Ininew, Anishinaabe, Dene and Dakota peoples, and the traditional territory and homeland of the Métis Nation, and to begin the necessary work to create a more equitable future for all. Sincerely,