ABSTRACT
This chapter defines workforce diversity as an environment where people regardless of race, class, color, and gender all have the equal opportunity to be self-supporting, self-sustained artists. According to scholar Antonio C. Cuyler, racial and ethnic workforce diversity is part of a quartet that includes racial and ethnic access, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Most importantly, when racial and ethnic access, diversity, equity, and inclusion matters to a historically White performing arts organization, there is an intentional effort among all members to acknowledge systemic racism and actively participate in its elimination. Studies on performing arts organizations such as symphony orchestras and regional nonprofit theaters reveal that both fields are historically White and in great need of making racial and ethnic access, diversity, equity, and inclusion a workforce value and priority. Statistically, Predominately White Organizations in the performing arts receive income from White audience members, White board members, and funding sources with predominately White staff.
