Item - 2023.EC5.3

The Economic and Community Development Committee:

1.  Requested the General Manager, Economic Development and Culture, in consultation with the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation, and the Executive Director, Corporate Real Estate Management, to report to the October 24, 2023 Economic and Community Development Committee meeting on:

a. how the City and its agencies are ensuring that performances in city-owned spaces are adhering to mandated guidelines of inclusivity and equity so that stereotypes, specifically relating to Indigenous communities and people of colour, are not perpetuated; and

b. current levels of funding and access to theatre space provided by the City for BIPOC performances, and opportunities to increase them.

The City of Toronto has made changes to ensure measures of inclusivity and equity are prevalent in all the work being done at the city. We have recognized systemic racism exists.

I would like to request a review on the types of theatre productions that are being staged in city-owned facilities.  I am concerned that some productions may marginalize or oppress individuals based on their race or creed, which is not in line with the City’s commitment to equity and inclusivity.

I believe it is important for the city to ensure that all theatre groups are provided the same access to funding and access to city-owned theater/building spaces and that productions in city-owned buildings and sties do not perpetuate harmful stereotypes or systemic biases.