MBU Theatre firmly stands against racism and white supremacy and squarely stands in the words of Jesus, who tells us to “Love your neighbor as yourself,” (Matthew 22:39) and who has promised us that one day every tribe, tongue, people, and language will be worshipping together (Revelation 7:9). We believe that in theatre we have the opportunity to reflect and celebrate the beautiful diversity which God has created.
We know that there have been times in the past when we have failed our black and brown brothers and sisters and we also know that we will do so in the future. As we look forward in this time of reckoning with our collective past, we know it is important to pledge all the intangible and tangible ways we will move forward toward a more diverse and inclusive culture.
Intangible
• We strive to create an environment in which all students know that their concerns can and should be heard and voiced.
• We promise to care for and educate our students without condition.
• We promise to serve our students, casts, crews, and production teams as modeled by Jesus. Elevating them and their needs above our own.
• We expect faculty and students to admit mistakes when they are realized and work to reconcile according to the standards laid out in Matthew 18:15-17.
Tangible
• We promise to ensure that a BIPOC is represented as a director, masterclass instructor, or designer at least once each school year, with the understanding that as our department grows these opportunities will grow as well.
• We promise that no BIPOC will ever be asked to wear a costume or microphone that reflects the white skin tone and they will never be asked to purchase pieces when white pieces are in stock.
• We promise to make our audition process completely accessible to people of all socio-economic statuses by providing opportunities to audition via video or by sending a faculty delegate to their location. If you cannot afford an accompanist we will provide one or allow the use of tracks.
• We are calling on current students, alumni, and community members of faith to volunteer to comprise a “Race & Representation Council,” which will review our execution of these tangible and intangible commitments once per year, decide on goals for the following year, and release a report via our social media accounts. This council will also assist in auditions and season selection as they are able. This report will be released May of each year.
We hope that as we move forward MBU Theatre can be a true reflection of how good and pleasant it is when we dwell together in unity (Psalm 133:1).
Kasey Cox
Director of Theatre and Dance
