o-pa’s idea commitment
O-pa is committed to inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility (IDEA). We appreciate and value ideas that come from a diverse work environment. We believe in fostering an inclusive culture that allows all individuals to attain their greatest potential. We create a welcoming environment for our patrons and artists. We provide deep, enriching engagement for the communities we serve.
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Inclusion
where differences belong
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Diversity
where variety in personal identities, experiences and ideas is valued and represented
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Equity
where bias, harassment and discrimination have no place
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Accessibility
where everyone can access extraordinary experiences
Key Priorities
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People
Increase representation of historically underrepresented or marginalized demographics of our staff, volunteers, and patrons.
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Place
Create an inclusive workplace where all stakeholders are valued, respected, and supported.
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Policies & procedures
Ensure organizational policies and procedures are equitable and inclusive.
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Products & services
Align our programs and offerings with the diverse needs and interests of our community.
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Professional development
Give our staff and volunteers the skills, cultural competency, and knowledge to be good allies and partners.
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Partnerships
Work with our community to spark change and amplify the voices that need to be heard.
"Great ideas, leaders, and decisions come from all races, ages, backgrounds, genders, relationship orientations, religions, abilities, and can be found in any position on an org chart. It is the full participation of our workforce and community that makes O-pa what it is today and ensures that what we produce is relevant, useful, and accessible to everyone. "
— Bianca Harley, VP of Human Capital & Inclusion
in action
Programming, Education, & Community Engagement
Initiatives like Voices AMPLIFIED! and Hip Hop Lab connect diverse local and national artists with community members.
Arts Access
O-pa distributes free and subsidized tickets to community organizations serving populations lacking adequate access to the performing arts. Arts Access participants include nonprofit organizations focusing on youth development, social services, persons with disabilities, individuals with fixed incomes, or other groups that, for a variety of reasons, do not have regular opportunities to experience high quality performing arts.
Accessibility Resources
A dedicated O-pa staff IDEA sub-committee regularly audits the venues, services, technology and communications to ensure patrons and employees with disabilities have an extraordinary experience at our facilities. Explore accessibility resources by venue:
IDEA news
O-pa hosts Executive Leadership in the Performing Arts fellow
October 24, 2023
Living the Dream celebrates MLK’s vision
January 18, 2023
Performing arts organizations talk inclusion, learn from each other
October 26, 2022
Learn more about our partners!
Our work is only possible with our community partners.
Our Committees
We’re grateful for the perspectives and recommendations of community members who help us ensure IDEA is at the core of our programming.
Community Partners
We create events in partnership with a number of incredible organizations. Learn more about them and support their missions!