​COMMITTED TO EQUITABLE WORK IN OUR COMMUNITY 

Statement of Cultural Equity
The Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance (SAACA) is deeply committed to advancing cultural equity as an essential pillar of our organization. We recognize that true equity requires not just dialogue but meaningful action across all facets of our programming, community engagement, and policy advocacy. We view this work as a fundamental responsibility, striving to ensure that diversity, equity, inclusion, and access are actively integrated into every aspect of our organization.
Over the past three years, we have intensified our efforts to meet the evolving needs of our community.

This commitment is reflected in our intentional outreach, inclusive programming, and the rigorous evaluation of our initiatives. By actively engaging new populations, demographics, and stakeholders, we ensure that our programming reflects and serves the diverse fabric of our region. Our initiatives, from rural arts programming and Arts and Healthcare to youth development and social justice-focused projects, are designed to elevate underrepresented voices and foster a more inclusive cultural landscape.

We have built a flexible and responsive foundation that adapts to the ever-changing needs of our community, while also delivering sustained, impactful programming. Our commitment to financial accessibility ensures that our programs are available to everyone, regardless of economic status. We believe that access to the arts is a right, not a privilege, and we invest in collaborative programs that bring the arts directly to communities across the region.

Our approach places artists, makers, and creatives at the center of our programming, ensuring that their voices and perspectives are integral to our work. As we continue to evolve, we remain steadfast in our dedication to social justice, equity, and inclusion, recognizing that these principles are vital to the long-term viability of the arts and to building a just and vibrant society.

Definition of Cultural Equity
Cultural equity encompasses the values, policies, and practices that ensure that all people—particularly those who have been historically marginalized based on race/ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, socioeconomic status, geography, citizenship status, or religion—are fully represented in the development of arts policy, the support of artists, the creation of accessible and thriving venues for expression, and the equitable distribution of programmatic, financial, and informational resources.

Acknowledgements & Affirmations

• We acknowledge that systemic inequities and injustices exist within our society, and we are committed to addressing and dismantling these systems of power.
• Cultural equity is critical to the sustainability and vitality of the arts sector.
• Accountability is essential. By acknowledging our inequities and working collaboratively, we can drive meaningful change.
• Everyone deserves equal access to a vibrant creative life, which is fundamental to a healthy and democratic society.
• The presence and prominence of diverse artists challenge inequities and inspire new possibilities.

 
Modeling Through Action
To lead authentically in cultural equity, we commit to:

• Pursuing cultural consciousness throughout our organization through ongoing education and the implementation of transparent, inclusive policies.
• Identifying and dismantling inequities within our policies, systems, programs, and services, and publicly reporting our progress.
• Expanding diverse leadership within our board, staff, and advisory bodies by dedicating time and resources to these efforts.

 
Fueling Field Progress
To drive systemic change in equity, we aim to:

• Promote deep learning and the adoption of pro-equity policies and practices across all our constituencies and audiences.
• Strengthen the cultural leadership pipeline by supporting programs and policies that reflect the diversity of our society.
• Collect and share data related to equity, making measurable progress towards cultural equity visible and actionable.
• Advocate for public and private policies that advance cultural equity and inclusivity.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance (SAACA) respectfully acknowledges that the land on which we gather, create, and present our programs throughout the State of Arizona is the traditional territory of Indigenous peoples who have stewarded this land for generations. We recognize the enduring presence and deep spiritual connection that the Tohono O'odham, Pascua Yaqui, Apache, Hopi, Diné (Navajo), and many other Indigenous communities have to these lands.
As we celebrate the arts and cultures of our diverse communities, we honor the rich histories, languages, and cultures of the Indigenous peoples who have shaped and continue to shape this region. We commit to amplifying Indigenous voices and supporting their ongoing cultural practices through our programs and partnerships.
​
We are mindful of our responsibility to honor this land and the communities it supports, and we pledge to work collaboratively and respectfully with Indigenous peoples to ensure that our work reflects an understanding of and respect for their cultural heritage and rights.