The arts cross all boundaries; they have always been a leveler, disregarding race, color, gender or creed.
I have been an actor, director, teacher in this community for more than 65 years. Discrimination of any form was never evident. As a teacher and director casting a play was/is color blind and frequently gender blind as well. As a teacher I gave my students a safe space to explore how the world is the same as much as it is different, and how the differences add texture and depth to our lives.
Good art, whether visual or performing, elevates social awareness. It shines a spotlight on areas of conflict as well as brings hope for a better tomorrow.
Live theatrical performances in particular, offer a unique opportunity for audience engagement. Whether it is “Raisin in the Sun” or “Lost in Yonkers” or ”Angels in America”, plays offer audiences diverse points of view. Audiences then can think about it, talk about it with their friends and their teachers, and hopefully understand its connection to our world and our lives and what’s going on right now.
Our arts community has a responsibility to demonstrate the best in us as well as point out the flaws. We in the arts must strive to continue to elevate social awareness through the arts.
Quality, socially conscious artists and arts organizations believe in inclusion for all. They strive to make their work stronger by the use of many voices, perspectives, and experiences . They actively welcome and include all people regardless of race, socioeconomic class, color, religion, diverse perspectives, age, sexual orientation, gender.
But, We have more work to do. These past weeks have shown us that we need to continue to actively advocate for, and stand beside the artists, cultural activists, and arts professionals who work toward a positive change. As arts and culture leaders, racial equity and justice need to be part of every aspect of our work. We must continue using the arts as a tool for positive change.
Eliane Weidauer
Oceanside