Taidetila Muijala Equality and non-discrimination plan*
* We have adopted and adapted our DEIB plan based on those shared by Cycle Up and UrbanApa.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework
This Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) framework serves as a guide to ensure that equality of access, participation, representation and voice are incorporated in all of our projects.
This framework should be considered in regards to artistic outputs, project management, artists, partner organisations, audiences and the leadership of Muijala.
Diversity means the demographic makeup of the partners we engage with, and for the programmes we plan, and it is the end goal of all DEIB efforts. Equity is the leveling of an uneven playing field. Inclusion is a welcoming environment for all involved in the project. And belonging is a feeling of comfort at an inclusive place.
Muijala values and respects diversity in terms of ideas and thoughts, gender, political opinion, cultural background and origin, different abilities, sexuality and all other differences that make life colourful and human.
We want to ensure there is no unjustified discrimination on the grounds of age, disability (including HIV/AIDS status), gender (including transgender and intersex), marital and civil partnership status, political opinion, race / ethnicity, religion and belief, sexual orientation, socio-economic background, or on any other irrelevant grounds.
Principles:
Equity in Engagement and Representation
Muijala recognises the importance of engaging artists, communities, decision makers and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds and experiences. We are committed to representing a wide range of voices that reflect the diversity and richness of the world. We will actively seek to include marginalised and underrepresented groups, ensuring that their narratives and perspectives are included.
There must be space for new viewpoints and experiences, but the atmosphere must also remain respectful, safe and inclusive.
No one should make assumptions of or question someone’s background, gender or experiences. Everyone has the right to share what they feel is necessary and meaningful about themselves.
Discrimination and any kind of harassment, sexual or otherwise, are strictly forbidden. This includes language. We do not use discriminatory, subordinating, repressive or offensive terminology (different slurs and invectives), not even in examples or to describe something.
Diverse Partners and Colleagues
We will proactively work with partners, artists and team members (including external consultants and freelancers) who reflect the diversity of the communities that we work with.
Respecting and Understanding Cultural Contexts
We acknowledge the influence of local contexts in shaping art, experiences and connections. We want to value and integrate local politics, history, environment, economy and artistic traditions into our projects and respect the cultural values of each participating artist and partner we work with.
Freedom and Responsibility
Our projects are based on trust and the freedom of doing, but also on responsibility. Everyone is responsible for their own work. This means that these ethical guidelines have been observed and every project participant is aware of them.
We are not perfect, and sometimes (or often) we fail. We therefore urge everyone to take responsibility for their words, actions and even failures. Dealing with complex and painful things can be emotional. A few pieces of advice regarding this:
- in accordance with intersectional ways of working, it is good to acknowledge your own privileges
- we come from different experiences, cultures and situations in life, we differ in opinion
- we acknowledge that language is imperfect and we are bound to have misunderstandings: sometimes we use different words to describe the same things, or vice versa, same words to describe different things
- we recognize and acknowledge our blank spots
- sometimes we utter painful things through emotion, but this should not lessen the importance of the message
- we seek to interact with others respectfully despite our differences of opinion
- we disagree on things, criticize structures and working methods, but we treat other people with respect
- at times, it is good to take a small break and just breathe
- at times, we need outside help to make sense of things
- at times, “sorry, I acted offensively, I will think on it and do better next time” is a good start
Collaboration and Co-Creation
Through engagement of a diverse range of partners, we ensure the inclusion of multiple perspectives. Collaboration and co-creation will ensure that our projects are inclusive and relevant to the people they aim to serve.
Access, Participation and Community Engagement
Regardless of age, ability or background, we will seek ways to break down barriers and make our art-led experiences, events and workshops inclusive and welcoming to all. We will do this through engaging and consulting with communities and tailoring our offer to meet their needs. Our interactive and educational programs will be designed to cater to various learning styles and abilities.
This commitment also extends to physical spaces, digital platforms, all modes of communication, project documentation and evaluation.
Monitoring, Implementation and Reflecting on the DEIB Framework
We are committed to continuous self-reflection and adaptation to improve our EDI practices. We welcome feedback from participants, artists, and communities to help guide our efforts.
Reporting a DEIB Concern
Any concern on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion by any stakeholder who is involved in or associated with Muijala should be reported to the project manager, Roos Hermsen. All issues will remain confidential and will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.
