June 18, 2020

Stage 773 joins our community in solidarity in condemning the racist and unjust killing of innocent Black citizens in this country. We believe that Black lives matter, and know that we must listen better, learn more and be active allies in the fight against discrimination. We are committing to take action and do our part to dismantle systemic racism throughout the Chicagoland arts community.

For the past ten years, we have endeavored to “provide a home that fosters great performers and inspires audiences.” We pledged to create a judgment-free environment where artists can congregate for a unified reason: to move or be moved by live performances. As we step into our next decade, we are taking the time to look inwardly as an organization and examine how we can better fulfill that mission.  

We have identified a number of actionable items that we will begin implementing as soon as we are able to start up our business again. We recognize that these steps are only a beginning and that our work as an organization will continue into our future  We invite the community’s input to help us be accountable to these and all future endeavors.  

·         We will provide anti-racism training for all board and staff members, to be completed as business resumes.  

·         We commit to further diversifying our board of directors and staff and will actively seek out new voices resulting in more diversity.  This includes an active search for Black candidates as well as candidates of color.

·         We have chosen to donate to My Block-My Hood-My City. As a non-profit organization we understand the important role that donations play to help achieve a mission.

·     We are grateful to be members of the vibrant Chicago Theatre community and are ready to be not only allies but also leaders in helping make it a more inclusive and exciting community. We can only be bettered by moving Black voices to center stage.