TORONTO, Jan. 17, 2018 /CNW/ – On January 17, 2018, senior representatives of the Canadian live performing arts community came together to discuss an industry-wide response to all forms of harassment, including sexual harassment, discrimination, and violence, as the beginning of a national action plan.

Federal Heritage Minister Mélanie Joly opened today’s meeting, thanking the performing arts community for its work on anti-harassment issues and for being a leader in cultural change.

Meeting participants agreed to the following public statement.

We commit to a performing arts industry that is safe and respectful. We recognize that increasing equity for marginalized and disenfranchised communities within the sector is an essential part of the solution.

We established working groups today to:

1. Develop a national code of conduct
2. Develop resources and internal education materials
3. Examine sectoral reporting mechanisms
4. Mentor and foster the next generation in partnership with educational institutions
5. Review governance models, board composition and practice

The live performance sector is committed to finding ways to work collectively and with purpose to find solutions. Communication with those who work in and with our sector is essential. We will provide updates on our activities as they become available.

Organizations in attendance at today’s meeting include:

— We encourage other organizations to sign on to this sectoral initiative.—

SOURCE Canadian Actors’ Equity Association

For further information: Media contacts: Lynn McQueen, Communications Director, Canadian Actors’ Equity Association, 416-867-9165, m: 416-476-7037, lynn@caea.com, www.caea.com; Sara Meurling, Executive Director, Professional Association of Canadian Theatres, 416.595.6455 x11, sara@pact.ca, www.pact.ca

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