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Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

The New Jersey Flute Society (NJFS) does not tolerate discrimination of any kind based on gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, abilities, religion, socioeconomic factors, place of origin, or age. 

 

We are committed to increasing diversity in leadership, membership, and programming. The board plans to do this by implementing inclusivity of personnel, invited artists, repertoire choices, and programs, as well as receiving professional guidance and training in creating more diversity. 

Here are some past, present, and future actions:

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  • In 2021, created the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee that meets monthly to establish accountability and action plans for moving forward 

  • Since 2021, we have been actively working towards diversifying the Board of Directors - currently 77% of the Board of Directors are comprised of BIPOC & LGBTQIA+ members 

  • Presently, all competition repertoire must include at least one piece by a BIPOC or LGBTQ+ composer in each category and competition round

  • Currently, partnered with an anti-racist facilitator and educator, Kayla Kim Votapek, to continue our education 

  • Host an anti-racism educational event at the beginning of each season, free and open to all musicians with Kayla Kim Votapek

  • In 2022, create an outreach program with NJFS members to give free flute sectionals to public schools

  • Starting in 2022, all of our events will have accessibility for differently abled individuals such as adding subtitles to videos of our classes that we share and make sure there is a ramp access to every building 

  • Furthering our community outreach by partnering with a local public school to offer free admission to our annual flute fair 

  • By the 2022-23 season, the board will place an accountability section in our bylaws if a member does not uphold the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity mission

The New Jersey Flute Society not only plans to implement
the above points and beyond, but also hold each other accountable
when a member of the society does not abide by our mission. 

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A few examples of behaviors that will not be tolerated in the virtual platform or in-person events are:

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  • Disrespectful language or bullying in any way 

  • Discrimination of any kind based on gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, abilities, religion, socioeconomic factors, place of origin, or age. 

  • Cultural appropriation. With this term, there are many possibilities for misinterpretation. We are continually working to understand how it affects the flute community. By definition, cultural appropriation refers to the use of objects or elements of a non-dominant culture in a way that reinforces stereotypes or contributes to oppression and doesn't respect their original meaning or give credit to their source. We will continue to have panel discussions about this topic at our annual Anti-Racism event.

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The following disciplinary actions will be issued if a member does not abide by the membership guidelines: 

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  • Complete required restorative education from resources provided by the NJFS

  • Possible suspension or termination of member association with the NJFS

  • Meet with the advisory board to determine their future with the NJFS

Our goal is to foster and welcome a safer environment for all flutists and give them a sense of belonging while celebrating each member’s contribution to our organization.
We acknowledge that this journey will continue to evolve over time, and we hope to create a safer space for all flutists in our community and beyond. 

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