The arts hold tremendous power to create positive change. The AFA believes in the full and equal participation of all Albertans, and intends to apply this belief to its policies and programs in two distinct ways:
- in the arts
- through the arts
The AFA is actively addressing issues of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA) through its Pluralism policy.
What does the policy do?
The policy is designed to help the AFA transform into a public arts funder that:
- increases opportunities for dialogue and greater understanding of differences
- eliminates disparities
- advances EDIA
The objectives of the policy are to:
- Advance equity, diversity, inclusion, and access by committing to pluralism in the arts.
- Promote dialogue, understanding and vibrancy by committing to a pluralist Alberta through the arts.
- Guide the implementation of the policy by the AFA.
What is pluralism?
Pluralism is defined as recognizing, respecting, and valuing difference (per the Global Centre for Pluralism). The AFA’s definition of pluralism also recognizes the sovereign rights of Indigenous Peoples as the most essential expression of true pluralism.
Learn more
A list of resources has been compiled to help our arts community learn more and better understand the universal ideas that connect us.
- check out EDIA resources
How will the AFA implement the policy?
The AFA is integrating policy principles into its governance and strategic planning, and will ensure diverse voices and perspectives at its tables. It is also incorporating the driving principles of the policy into the business areas of the AFA, its programs and service delivery.
The policy is intended to address all aspects of EDIA and anti-oppression. In fact, the AFA is incorporating an anti-oppression lens into its review of all policies, programs, services to confront:
- racism
- sexism
- ableism
- ageism
- and more…
What's New?
Watch this space to learn about new initiatives and/or any changes to AFA programs and services.
The 2022 cycle of the AFA’s Organization Activation Projects grant program focused on fostering pluralism and EDIA in the arts and through the arts.
- In March 2023, the AFA approved more than $242,000 to support pluralism projects being undertaken in Alberta. These projects will occur throughout the year, and we look forward to seeing the results of the program.
