Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access

Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access "IDEA" Statement

The Wichita Symphony celebrates the identity and uniqueness of each of our stakeholders, and we are committed to integrating Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access “IDEA” in the way we operate, attract patronage, showcase artists, and invite members of our community to come together to enjoy rich and vibrant symphonic music. The definition of our IDEA acronym below further describes how we will engage with our community and ensure that each of our unique stakeholders feels a sense of belonging, thereby supporting program relevance, increasing audience engagement, and achieving sustainable growth.

Our goal is to foster an environment where the IDEA acronym principles guide daily interactions and drive decisions throughout the organization.  It’s vital that all stakeholders – staff, board members, musicians, and the surrounding community – are invited to participate in decision-making to allow for the IDEA principles to flourish.

We aspire for all people to experience the power and joy of live symphonic music.

Approved by the Wichita Symphony Board of Directors on December 4, 2024.

INCLUSION: Inclusion refers to the notion of belonging, feeling welcomed and valued, and having a sense of community. It also speaks to a capacity to engage and succeed in a given institution, program, or setting. Our desire is for our community to always feel included. We welcome everyone to attend our concerts and events and encourage families from all walks of life to participate in the Youth Orchestras Program and Young People’s Concerts.

Pictured: Children ages 4-8 have a chance to interact with percussion instruments following "Welcome to the Wichita Symphony" at Rockwell Public Library.

DIVERSITY: Diversity describes the appreciation and respect of differences present among any collection of people, such as but not limited to race, social class, gender identity, sexuality, disability, ethnicity, religion, background and experiences. It is our desire that people of all backgrounds will feel invited and welcomed in our organization. 

Pictured: Pianist Joyce Yang and Guest Conductor Laura Jackson in concert with the Wichita Symphony, November 2024.

EQUITY: Equity complements the notion of equality through fairness in treatment and opportunity. The pursuit of equity often requires attending to unique needs to achieve a level playing field for participating individuals and communities. Our commitment is to be understanding of those diverse needs while exercising good judgment in its process.

Pictured: Andy Slater, member of the Wichita Symphony percussion section, at Symphony on the Grand Lawn.

ACCESS: Access refers to recognizing and addressing barriers to opportunities that our community experiences. It is our desire to remove barriers, both real and perceived, so that as many people as possible will be able to participate in and enjoy our concerts and other program activities.

Pictured: Wichita Symphony Brass Quintet in concert at Naftzger Park, part of a free community concert series Playing Across the Parks in partnership with Wichita Park and Recreation.