Massachusetts: DEI Plan

Bianca Leigh and MJ Rodriguez in Trans Scripts, Part I – The Women. Photo courtesy American Repertory Theater; image by GretjenHelene.com

Recognizing the increasing diversity of Massachusetts as a civic, cultural and economic asset, the Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC) adopted a comprehensive Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Plan. The plan guides MCC’s ongoing efforts to honor many dimensions of diversity: age, ability, ethnicity, race, religion, political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, nationality, geographic origin, immigration status, and socioeconomic status. The plan originated from a year-long assessment that began in 2018. During that process, MCC examined how its internal culture, funding structures, field services, communications and collaborations could better reflect the agency’s commitment to DEI. The resulting plan and related progress reports itemize specific actions the agency is taking to advance DEI. Examples of action steps include the conscious adoption of more inclusive language, revising personnel policies, changing hiring practices, providing in-depth training to staff and constituents, reducing barriers in grant application and review practices, and seeking continual feedback. For more information, contact MCC Operations Director Jen Lawless.