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 in the arts.
- Promote dialogue, understanding and vibrancy through the arts.
- Guide the implementation of the policy by the AFA.
What is pluralism?
Watch a short video explainer below.
- Watch version with ASL interpretation and captions
- Watch version with audio description
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
- download and read the policy
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.
In March 2024, the AFA was pleased to approve nearly $197,000 to support arts projects in Alberta that focus on nurturing and promoting EDIA through arts-related programming by Indigenous, visible minorities, or deaf and disability artists through our Organization Activation Projects grant program. These projects will occur throughout 2024 and we look forward to seeing the results of the program
