Banner image for Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility Banner image for Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility Banner image for Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility

Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility

We are committed to creating spaces where everyone across all identities, abilities, lived experiences or backgrounds feels respected, welcomed, and valued. This commitment extends beyond words. This means taking a close look at how we work, both inside our organization and in the community, and making sure our actions match our values and align with the principles of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA).

We know that meaningful, lasting change takes ongoing effort, humility, and a willingness to grow. As we move forward, we are actively listening, learning, and taking steps to build a space where everyone feels they truly belong—a space that reflects the full diversity of the Bow Valley and supports the many communities who call it home.

Between November 2022 and June 2023, artsPlace partnered with SLD Consulting to conduct a comprehensive Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Audit.

The IDEA Audit included Listening Circles where diverse community members gathered to share their honest experiences with our consultants. Community Connectors helped us bring together participants newly settled in Canmore, those from the disability and neurodiverse community, Stoney Nakoda community members, as well as other underrepresented communities.

We also held Listening Circles with our Board, Stoney Nakoda community members, Newcomers to Canada/Canmore community members, and Wider artsPlace community group and staff, and sent out a survey to artsPlace community members, including volunteers, teaching artists, performers, and other partners.

From this work, five key priorities emerged:

  1. Radically rethink communications strategies to more effectively reach a diversity of community members.
  2. Increase representation and diversity of the artsPlace community (internal & external)
  3. Create more mentorship opportunities for artists and community members.
  4. Review and update policies and key documentation to reflect DEI values.
  5. Establish a DEI committee to take leadership of this work and support accountability and transparency.

These findings continue to guide our actions and decisions across the organization.

Programming

We will continue to adapt our programming to ensure more people across the Bow Valley can experience the transformative power of the arts.

Indigenous Connections Program

Since 2017, we’ve offered Indigenous-led programming in film, theatre, visual arts, dance, and cultural workshops.

Cultural Learning Circles

We’ve created space for cross-cultural dialogue and learning in partnership with Stoney Nakoda knowledge-keepers, Bow Valley Immigration Partnership, and others.

Intersectional Programming

We continue to host community events that explore the intersections of identity, like Pride Perspectives: Disability & Pride, a panel discussion and art experience that centered 2SLGBTQIA+ artists with disabilities.

We also work with groups like Settlement Services in the Bow Valley, BanffLIFE, and CYAN to create programs that reflect the interests of the people they serve and to create opportunities where people from these groups can connect.

Accessibility

At artsPlace, accessibility means providing features and services that help everyone feel welcome, comfortable, and supported. This includes assistive tools and inclusive facilities such as translation and text-reading devices, sensory kits, accessibility enhancements in our gallery exhibitions, and friendly staff who are always happy to help.

We have made our gallery space more accessible for people with various disabilities and redesigned our website to improve usability for all. We also offer sensory supports, such as fidget toys and other tools, to help create a welcoming and inclusive environment for individuals with neurodiverse experiences.

Learn more about all of our accessibility features and services here.

People and Culture

We’re investing in people and creating an internal culture of belonging.

Inclusive Hiring & Representation

We are working on ensuring that our team—staff, Board, artists, and volunteers—reflects the true diversity of our community. That means removing barriers and opening up more ways for people to get involved.

Bow Valley Workplace Inclusion Charter

In 2024, we joined the Bow Valley Workplace Inclusion Charter—a regional effort to promote equity and inclusion—affirming our commitment to building a more inclusive workplace culture and a more inclusive Bow Valley.

Continuous Learning

We know this work is never finished. That’s why we’re committed to learning, reflecting, and improving together.

Ongoing Training

Since 2020, our team has participated in cultural awareness, neurodiversity, and anti-racism training to better support each other and our community.

Professional Development

Staff, Board, artists, and volunteers continue to take part in learning opportunities focused on accessibility, anti-oppression, and inclusive practices.

Evaluation & Feedback

We’re embedding IDEA into our planning, evaluation, and community feedback processes so we can keep growing in the right direction.

Community Outreach & Communications

We’re building relationships that centre community voices and reflect the full diversity of the Bow Valley.

Inclusive Communications

We’re actively redesigning our communications and making information clearer, more accessible, and more relevant to the people we serve.

Community Ambassadors

In 2025, we welcomed a team of Community Ambassadors to help us connect with underrepresented groups and reduce barriers to access.

Did you know?

Discover Art Access Program

Anyone who identifies as Indigenous can access our Discover Art Access Program and receive a 65% discount off regular prices for multi-week courses and a 50% discount off workshops, movies, special screenings and live performances.

Learn More

Neurodivergent Community

Caregivers who are accompanying a neurodivergent community member to offer them support may attend workshops and concerts at artsPlace for free. Please call artsPlace in advance to secure your registration.

Call 403-609-2623
Background image for: artsPlace is located on the land of the Treaty 7 people.

artsPlace is located on the land of the Treaty 7 people.

artsPlace is located on the land of the Treaty 7 People. In the spirit of respect, reciprocity and truth, we honour and acknowledge the Canmore area, known as “Chuwapchipchiyan Kudi Bi”, as the traditional territories of the Îyârhe Nakoda Nations (Bearspaw, Chiniki, and Goodstoney First Nations), the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Piikani, and Kainai), the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Rocky View District of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government (District 4).

Background image for: artsPlace is located on the land of the Treaty 7 people.

artsPlace is located on the land of the Treaty 7 people.

artsPlace is located on the land of the Treaty 7 People. In the spirit of respect, reciprocity and truth, we honour and acknowledge the Canmore area, known as “Chuwapchipchiyan Kudi Bi”, as the traditional territories of the Îyârhe Nakoda Nations (Bearspaw, Chiniki, and Goodstoney First Nations), the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Piikani, and Kainai), the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Rocky View District of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government (District 4).

Background image for: artsPlace is located on the land of the Treaty 7 people.

artsPlace is located on the land of the Treaty 7 people.

artsPlace is located on the land of the Treaty 7 People. In the spirit of respect, reciprocity and truth, we honour and acknowledge the Canmore area, known as “Chuwapchipchiyan Kudi Bi”, as the traditional territories of the Îyârhe Nakoda Nations (Bearspaw, Chiniki, and Goodstoney First Nations), the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Piikani, and Kainai), the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Rocky View District of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government (District 4).

artsPlace Indigenous Connections programs are generously supported by

Priscilla and Robert Janes, Banff Centre for the Arts and Creativity, Kristy Wolfe Photography, and many other generous community members.

artsPlace DEI Audit was made possible by funding from