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.

This event is free and open to artists, scholars, undergraduate and graduate students, and the wider public, however registration is required and can be done so by following the event link below.

Speakers include: Carmen Alvis, Philip Akin, Misha Bakshi, Herbie Barnes, Amira Benjamin, Shawn DeSouza-Coehlo, Jess Dobkin, Liam Donovan, Max Ferguson, Karen Finley, Karen Fricker, Stephanie Fung, Sarah Kitz, Rimah Jabr, Naila Keleta Mae, Shana MacDonald, Carla Beatriz Melo, Nicole Nolette, Mariló Nuñez, Mumbi Tindyebwa Otu, Debbie Patterson, Mike Payette, Kimberly Rampersad, Jennifer Roberts-Smith, Angela Sun, Jessica Watkin.

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.