DEI Statement
The National Theatre Foundation believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are essential to stewarding The National’s role as a significant and historic institution that serves our community in the Washington, D.C. area. While our theatre on Pennsylvania Avenue has long hosted performances of national prominence, we are also committed to making a local impact by reducing barriers to performing arts access and amplifying diverse voices through various channels, including community and educational programs. We have instituted mandatory staff and Board training, developed hiring and operations practices that emphasize equality, and created diverse educational content alongside partners throughout our region. We expect our work to model effective DEI practices nationally and locally, and we work every day to uphold our values of fairness, transparency, connection, continuous learning, and creativity.
After much deliberation amongst the staff and Board of Directors, The National Theatre Foundation (NTF) has adopted the above DEI Statement. While public statements are important, we recognize that integrating best practices into all levels of our organization requires consistent action.
We look forward to updating our patrons, donors, and community members as we progress through our DEI work. We also encourage all friends of The National Theatre Foundation to hold us accountable in this work. Below are a few of the current initiatives the staff and Board are undertaking.
Currently, our Board is searching for a new Executive Director. Staff and members of the Board believe that whoever steps into that role must be ready to uphold and advance the principles outlined in our DEI Statement. During this interim period, the staff continues to conduct monthly DEI meetings; train with our esteemed consultant Dr. Kumea Shorter-Gooden; revise policies and protocols in the interest of supporting all personnel, including our contractors; and develop programs in tune with one of the most diverse audiences and artistic communities in the country.