A statement from LADA on organisational change

UPDATE: Read here LADA Statement of Commitment on organisational change and racial equality

LADA has an exclusively white workforce. We acknowledge that this perpetuates inequalities and underrepresentation of Black, Indigenous and People of Colour in Live Art. We are acutely aware of our failures to recruit a more diverse and inclusive team, and we sincerely apologise. We recognise that this runs counter to the work we do, to our values, and to those of the artists and partners we collaborate with.

Since our 20^th anniversary in 2019, LADA’s Director and Co-Founder Lois Keidan – together with staff and Board – has been developing plans to reimagine the future of our organisation. At the forefront of this process have been critical issues of representation, and the need to explore radical new ways of working – and new models of leadership – that respond to the most challenging and innovative ideas and practices for the benefit of art, artists, audiences and the Live Art sector.

Given the renewed urgency of addressing racial inequity, disenfranchisement, and the unprecedented crises the world is facing, we are now accelerating our plans for LADA’s future.

Looking at our own failures, we understand that structural change in the cultural sector, and especially a commitment to Black, Indigenous and People of Colour, must come from the top – from organisational leadership and governance. It is for this reason that Lois intends to step aside, and to support LADA through a process of organisational transition in close dialogue with a diverse range of artists, activists, academics, arts workers and others.

LADA’s Board greatly respects and admires Lois’ decision and her commitment to our organisation being at the vanguard of change. The Board and team will work with her over the next year to ensure a timely and managed process of succession, to recruit new leadership whose vision will shape our shared future.