Social Justice

Changing Worlds mission is to foster inclusive communities and cross-cultural connections through the arts.  Our vision is “We are changing worlds”. As such, we stand in opposition to the dehumanizing and violent practices of colonization, institutional divestment, and harm to individuals, neighborhoods, and communities.  We oppose acts of oppression, hate, and violence of all kinds.  As a Healing Centered Engagement (HCE) aligned organization, we uplift and stand with the rights of the marginalized to affirm, celebrate, and honor culture, race, and identity, individual and collective agency to create community-informed change, rooted in relationships, meaning, and aspirations.   

Each time acts of violence, neglect, and injustice (mass shootings, community violence, legislative violence, dehumanization, advancement of fascism) occur to the vulnerable and oppressed we stand in loving solidarity with we grieve.  We are enraged and we also stand in solidarity to affirm our collective humanity and work towards solutions and healing rooted in the wisdom and creativity of young people, artists, and community, because we are changing worlds. 

#blacklivesmatter #sayhername #stopasianhate #loveislove #transrights #reproductivejustice #metoo #nimunamenos #socialjustice #equityineducation #decolonize #indigenousrights #landback #waterislife #healing #insolidarity #humanrights 

Diversity Statement

We maintain that achieving diversity requires an enduring commitment to inclusion that must find full expression in our organizational culture, values, norms and behaviors. Throughout our work, we will support diversity in all of its forms, encompassing but not limited to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, age disability, marital status, veteran status, gender, gender identity/expression, citizenship, health status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

Leading by example we aspire to make diversity a core and abiding strength of the organization.

Framework

Changing Worlds recognizes that its effectiveness will be enhanced and its mission well served when the practice of diversity is reflected in all aspects of the organization, and specifically when:

Board Membership

The Governance Board reflects the rich diversity of the Chicago metropolitan area.

Donors

Changing Worlds shares its commitment to diversity as a value and a practice with its current and potential donors and it encourages donors to consider and embrace these values.

Employment

The staff Changing Worlds reflects the communities of metropolitan Chicago. Staffing at every level of the organization should reflect the diversity of the metropolitan region.

Vendors

Changing Worlds vendor community demonstrates a commitment to diversity and inclusion as a practice. This commitment is reflected in governance practices, hiring practices and organizational philosophy. Preference is given to vendors with a proven record of this commitment to diversity.