Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Statement
At Visual Artists Ireland, we are committed to fostering a culture of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in all aspects of our work. We believe that art is a powerful tool for social change, and we recognize the importance of reflecting the richness and complexity of our diverse world.
Our commitment to DEI is reflected in the following principles:
- Diversity: We celebrate and embrace the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences of our artists, staff, and members. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
- Equity: We are dedicated to promoting fairness and justice in all of our programs and initiatives. We actively work to identify and address barriers to participation and ensure that everyone has equal access to opportunities for artistic expression and growth.
- Inclusion: We actively seek out and amplify voices that are often marginalised or underrepresented in the arts. We strive to create programming and spaces that are inclusive and accessible to individuals of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities.
- Anti-Discrimination: We have a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination, harassment, or bias of any kind. We are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where everyone can thrive and express themselves freely.
- Continuous Learning: We are committed to ongoing learning and growth in the areas of DEI. We regularly engage in training, workshops, and discussions to deepen our understanding of systemic issues and identify ways to create positive change.
- Community Engagement: We actively collaborate with community partners and stakeholders to ensure that our work is responsive to the needs and interests of the diverse communities we serve. We believe that meaningful engagement and collaboration are essential for creating lasting impact.
By embracing these principles, we strive to be a leader in advancing DEI in the visual arts sector and creating a more just and inclusive society through the power of art.
Visual Artists Ireland is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We welcome people of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities to join us in our mission to make art accessible and impactful for everyone.
This statement is a living document that will evolve as we continue to learn and grow. It should not be read in isolation as the embedded nature of our commitment is shown in our various polices and procedures. The ultimate responsibility for VAI’s ability to deliver this policy as a standard part of our way of working lies with the CEO. Each staff member is responsible to ensure that this and all other policies are central of their planning and delivery, and all policies are reviewed on a 3 year rotation by the Board of Directors.