Ethical Statement & Values

Zoe A. Tyler’s ethical statement and values was inspired by the Ethical Statement from the Center of Playback Theatre.

Core values of Zoe A. Tyler and her company For Youth By Youth Theatre Company aim towards the co-creation of creative spaces with diverse artists and audiences of all ages in a manner that does not cause harm. All collaborating parties agree to follow uphold the following:

Diversity

We are committed to providing opportunities to diverse audiences and diverse artists of all ages and backgrounds. Diversity is understood to refer to a variety of social identities, including but not limited to: age, race, ethnicity, ability, neurodiversity, mental health, religion, socio-economic class, biological sex, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, nation of origin, language(s) spoken, citizenship status, formal education, body mass, marriage status, and housing status.

Anti-Racism

We are dedicated to anti-racist practices and policies. Principles from We See You White American Theatre (WAT) serves as a guide. We simultaneously acknowledge that race is a social construct, and racism is a harmful system with real life consequences. The only way to dismantle this system is by taking action. This pledge to anti-racism means continuous education and adaptations of practices based on research and voices of people of color, Black folks, and Indigenous folks. That also means we are committed to hiring and paying artists of color, Black artists, Indigenous artists, and artists with historically marginalized identities.

Accountability

We acknowledge that best intentions can still lead to harmful impact and seek accountability when harm is done. Steps of accountability are built into the process. Some of the current steps recommended in accountability (in no particular order) are acknowledgement of harm, apologies that do not excuse behaviors of harm, and policy implementation/adaptation to ensure harm is not repeated. Our policies on accountability are subject to change to best meet the needs of persons who have been harmed.

Accessibility

We understand that accessibility is multi-faceted and needs to be built into every part of the theatre making and viewing experience. We promise to make accessibility and inclusion an active part of the planning process of productions, from who is involved in the production to who will see the production.

Human Rights

We promote the human rights of people of all social identities. We strive to support peoples’ human rights, regardless of those represented or not represented in any given production. Appropriate action to address prejudice (that may be expressed consciously or unconsciously) will be taken during any activities.

Education

We understand that education to encompass both the audience and theatre makers. We strive to educate audiences on diverse social topics relevant to the community and intended audience. This education continues to any collaborating theatre makers, who are committed to lifelong learning (and unlearning!) as theatre makers, active citizens, and agents of social change.