Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Policy

Michigan Arts Access is committed to fostering, cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion. Our mission is to create an inclusive society where ALL people may participate in, learn through, excel in and enjoy the arts. To that end, it is essential for our organization to embrace and encourage people with differences in physical and mental ability, age, color, ethnicity, family or marital status, gender identity or expression, language, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, veteran status, and other characteristics that make the beautiful tapestry of American life to engage with our organization.

Our human capital is our most valuable asset and must be respected. The collective sum of the individual differences, life experiences, knowledge, inventiveness, innovation, self-expression, unique capabilities and talent enrich our organization, and expand our ability to appropriately serve our mission. Our employees, contractors, and volunteers define our culture and our beliefs, and have a direct effect on our organization’s achievement.  It is, therefore, critical that all Michigan Arts Access employees/volunteers/artists understand they have an obligation to treat others with dignity and respect at all times. All are expected to exhibit conduct that reflects inclusion during work, at work functions, and at all other organization-sponsored and participative events.

Michigan Arts Access’ commitment to diversity is applicable to our policies and practices in our programs, and with recruitment and selection; compensation and benefits; professional development and training; promotions; layoffs; terminations; and the ongoing development of a work environment built on the premise of gender and diversity equity that encourages and enforces:

• Respectful communication and cooperation between all employees/volunteers/artists/members/clients.
• Teamwork and employee participation, permitting the representation of all groups and employee perspectives.
• Work/life balance through flexible work schedules to accommodate employees’ varying needs.
• Employer and employee contributions to the communities we serve to promote a greater understanding and respect for the diversity.

Any employee/volunteer/artist found to have exhibited any inappropriate conduct or behavior against others may be subject to disciplinary action or dismissal.