WMS STATEMENT OF CULTURE & INCLUSION

West Michigan Symphony (WMS) is committed to being a place of welcome and inclusion, where we put people before tradition and where every person can bring their authentic self. Our performances provide a community gathering space for shared beauty, hope and celebration. By reflecting different cultures and voices in our artistic curation—including those our industry has historically marginalized—we render orchestral music fresh, accessible and relevant. In our Board, staff and volunteer base, we strive to represent the full West Michigan community.

CORE BELIEFS:

• Live music fosters community and connection
• A culture of welcome and inclusion is essential to achieving our vision of a music-infused West Michigan
• By putting these beliefs into action we bring new repertoire, new voices, and new relationships to the table

GOAL I: Become a leader in community-building through advocacy, dialogue and partnerships

• Increase engagement with and attendance by underrepresented audiences and neighborhoods. Develop and deepen relationships with organizations led by and/or reaching marginalized people.

GOAL II: Become a welcoming organization that encompasses and serves our entire community

• Invite, engage and include multiple community voices in shaping and supporting the organization within the board and other volunteer corps
• Participate in initiatives to expand professional opportunities for musicians from backgrounds historically marginalized by our industry
• Reflect best practices in our workplace policies to provide a setting where all employees experience a sense of belonging and empowerment

GOAL III: Offer an inclusive musical repertoire for a broad audience

• Elevate music that expands and freshens the repertoire. Feature artists from backgrounds previously underrepresented.

GOAL IV: Increase community-wide access to instrumental and choral music

• Strive to eliminate barriers to our programs (cost, transportation, etc.) for at-risk youth. Build trust and collaboration with local educators to support curricular music programs. Maintain and grow after-school partnerships, residencies and summer music camps to expand access for underserved students.

GOAL V: Make inclusion an organizational value through ongoing learning, growth and commitment to change

• Conduct regular internal learning and application sessions on how our existing culture supports or inhibits these goals; and constantly seek ways to improve