Rehearsal for Life’s mission is to “strengthen young people’s social and emotional skills for every stage of life, through dialogue, creativity, and performance.” In June, then-Executive Director Francie Karlen issued a heartfelt statement in response to the impact of systemic racism, bringing to our collective attention the need to address institutional and societal inequities. We are now internally examining how our organization can become more equitable, diverse, inclusive, and accessible, and acknowledge where we have fallen short in the past.

Change requires action — action that come from individual endeavors as well as community engagement. In this seminal moment, we must hold ourselves accountable and commit to a re-examination of our deeds beyond statements. As noted by Dr. Ibram X. Kendi, author of Stamped from the Beginning and How to Be An Antiracist, such change "requires persistent self-awareness, constant self-criticism, and regular self-examination."

To this end, in each of our monthly newsletters going forward, Rehearsal for Life will offer "From Insight to Action" — a space that centers the work of thought leaders, guiding us to activate these practices at home, at work, and in shared spaces. We invite our community members to join us in the work of anti-racism, equity, diversity, inclusion, and access.

Together, we will shape our community into a place where our values meet our vision. We thank you for your energy, faith, and action.