Is DEDI dead? What does this mean for Canadian theatre? The multi-dimensionality of the current backlash against DEDI initiatives has a direct bearing on the lives and careers of theatre artists across Canada, especially racialized and minoritized artists. Though distressing, the current backlash is no surprise, nor is it the first time Canadian theatre artists and academics have contended with it. How can we face the current backlash together? How can we amplify the insights and gains made by equity-seeking artists, in part through these DEDI initiatives? How can theatre artists, educators, and students prepare for the next five years and beyond?

This two-day event will engage presenters and audience members in: reflecting critically on the DEDI work that has been achieved since 2020; identifying obstacles, including experiences of backlash, that have interrupted or impeded the realization of DEDI goals and related initiatives; sharing strategies for navigating backlash and strengthening the performing arts community locally and across Canada.

Participants include: Carmen Alvis, Philip Akin, Misha Bakshi, Herbie Barnes, Amira Benjamin, Rebecca Caines, Shawn DeSouza-Coehlo, Jess Dobkin, Liam Donovan, Max Ferguson, Karen Finley, Karen Fricker, Stephanie Fung, Danielle Howard, Rimah Jabr, Sarah Kitz, Jordan Laffrenier, Signy Lynch, Naila Keleta Mae, Michelle MacArthur, Shana MacDonald, Carla Beatriz Melo, Nicole Nolette, Mariló Nuñez, Mumbi Tindyebwa Otu, Debbie Patterson, Mike Payette, Kimberley Rampersad, Jennifer Roberts-Smith, Heath V. Salazar, Angela Sun, Jessica Watkin.

This event is free (registration required, register here)  and open to artists, scholars, undergraduate and graduate students, and the wider public.

The event has been curated by Courtney Ch’ng Lancaster, Laura Levin, Keira Loughran, Mariló Núñez, Jamie Robinson, Marlis Schweitzer, Celine Daaboul, and Maya Fleming, with accessibility support from Natasha Ross.

Click here to download the full symposium schedule or see below.