We believe diversity must be accompanied by equity, inclusion and access.

Diversity, equity, inclusion, and access is necessarily tied to our work as an organization

A core value of Young Audiences of Louisiana (YALA) is that all young people, regardless of their race, background, ability, or zip code, deserve access to a well-rounded and arts-rich education.

As an educational entity, we strongly believe that the empathetic response that emerges from a wider understanding and appreciation of all cultures and communities is central to the development of all young people. YALA is dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and access (DEIA) practices in all areas of our work, while furthering education and engagement around these principles across our affiliate network.

“All young people, regardless of their race, background, ability, or zip code, deserve access to a well-rounded and arts-rich education.”

In meeting the challenge of stimulating diversity organization-wide, YALA recognizes the importance of education in concert with decisive action. Underscoring our commitment and that of the entire YA network of affiliates, DEIA is a core focus of network leadership convenings, professional learning programs, national initiatives, and advocacy efforts. We know that the health, vitality, and ultimate success of YALA's work in the community is dependent upon the participation of people from a variety of ethnic, social, and economic backgrounds at all levels of the organization. YALA has made a long-term commitment to maintain and increase diversity in board membership, staff, programs, artists, and the audiences we serve, while fostering an inclusive organizational culture that places equal value on people.

We recognize that efforts to advance DEIA policies and practices must be an evolving and ongoing process in order to have a sustained and meaningful impact. We are committed to supporting and collaborating with our affiliates as we strive to push this critical work forward.

Specific strategies initiated to advance these goals include:

  • Re-centering planning and implementation of programs serving children and families through reciprocal community engagement.

  • Monitoring the racial and ethnic mix of YALA's boards, staff, artist rosters.

  • Targeting diversity as a primary criterion in nominations to the YALA board, including the addition of key stakeholder voices. (For example: educators, parents, and program alumni)

  • Hiring independent consultants to make presentations and facilitate workshops focusing on strategies to understand, evaluate, and improve DEIA practices across YALA's work.

  • Launching the Transformative Change Initiative to provide individualized mentorship and career development for BIPOC artists of color who demonstrate artistic excellence and interest in continuing a career in arts education in the greater New Orleans area.