Racial Equalities Statement

The People’s Orchestra, The Rusty Player’s Orchestra, The People’s Show Choirs, The People’s Big Band and Underscore are speaking out against racism.

We are committed to the fight for equality. Not just non-racism, but anti-racism. Not just no discrimination, but anti-discrimination.

We are speaking out so that every person knows  that they belong in our community, and that we stand against discrimination, ignorance and apathy in all forms.

We are dedicated to upholding the ambitions, talent and excellence of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic people.

That we support and celebrate people of all ethnicities, orientations, backgrounds and protected characteristics, and will challenge the ideologies and systems that threaten to oppress them.

That we are examining ourselves, our organisation, our leadership, training and partnerships as well as the music we showcase.

We are invested in championing all musicians, their instruments and voices, and in showcasing the diverse community in which we live and perform. We believe in and advocate an inclusive community, and we are committing to transparent dialogue about this essential issue – We stand with you and we will not be silent.

We pledge to:

• Uplift the lives and music of a diverse variety of people, especially those in marginalised communities.
• Consider all those who interact with our organisation and give them the respect, fairness, and dignity they deserve.
• Collaborate with performers and composers who champion the diversity of our community.
• Increase our understanding by intentionally educating ourselves on issues of inequality and discrimination.
• Analyse our policies and practices to guarantee our standards are aligned with equality and justice.
• Be scrupulous in recruiting racially diverse staff and providing equitable opportunities.

We will continue to use what we have; our music, our events, our community and our platform, to fight against injustice and inequality in our local area and in the wider context. We ask that everyone unites with us in our commitment to real change.

Music has no prejudice. Music has no limitations. Music is for everyone.

If you are interested in getting involved in our musical community, with any kind of instrument or voice, or in our charity work making a difference in the diverse West Midlands that we love, please check out The People’s Orchestra website for more information.