OIDF COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION
A famous quote by Verna Myers, a leading diversity and inclusion expert, says, "Diversity is being invited to the party. Inclusion is being asked to dance."
Through its ongoing work, Oklahoma International Dance Festival will realize its full aspirations to be a safe haven and achieve its goals of representation and accountability.
SAFE HAVEN
OIDF rejects racism and is a safe environment where everyone is treated fairly, with dignity, respect, and grace. We denounce the violent actions and aggressive language intended to marginalize BIPOC groups. OIDF is inclusive and welcoming to people of every race, gender, sexual orientation, creed, socio-economic status, ethnicity, and political belief. OIDF will continue to foster a community that supports the creation of art and one in which people can thrive and feel supported.
We acknowledge that critical assessments are integral to dance training and that, sometimes, when not well communicated, they can be hurtful. Therefore, we will ensure that our faculty, staff, artistic partners, and coaches always provide enlightening, constructive, and respectful feedback.
REPRESENTATION
The organization's priority is to maintain participants of the dance festival, staff, instructors, and Board Members that directly reflect our country's diverse population and to cultivate an equally diverse audience.
ACCOUNTABILITY
OIDF ensures that everyone employed or contracted by the organization will be empathetic and understanding, and OIDF's policies will reflect this openness. We will offer education and support to enhance understanding of DEI/anti-racist concepts. Anti-DEI infractions will be considered grounds for dismissal or termination of contract.