Our Story
Statement of Purpose
We were founded by actor-vist Alicia "Lisa Young", (a Black Woman who is a stroke survivor), in May 2020 after the deaths of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd and countless other Black people. In 2020, as we considered the impact of COVID-19, and the mobilization and out-cry for justice from people supporting the Black Lives Matter movement, we also asked ourselves "What are we prepared to do to dismantle racism, anti-Blackness and inequalities in theatre?"
We are a grassroots outreach organization providing activism, resources, and accountability for the work of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access (DEIA) in theaters to our members. We serve our membership of individuals, companies, and communities by granting IDEAs designations to organizations which fulfill guiding principles - called Pillars of Inclusion - within their policy and infrastructure. We are Change Agents, who are making demonstrable advancements, real and effective.
Meet the Executive Team
THE POLYMATH
IDEAs is an urgent, grassroots response from the performance art community to change our world together and save lives through art. How can we not say yes?
"That is what is encouraging to me, seeing people move past, 'Is this a big deal?' to 'What is the best way to tackle it?'"
-Ijeoma Oluo
she/her
THE ORGANIZER
Mare joined IDEAs because she wants to live, work, and create in a vibrant and equitable community. She's here to "fail forward", and support her inspiring colleagues.
"When you see something that is not right, not fair, not just, you have to speak up."
- John Lewis
she/her
Mare Trevathan
THE BLACTORVIST
Lisa founded IDEAs when she realized COVID-19 was thought to be more dangerous to art than it's history of systemic racism and discriminatory practices.
"The Child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth"
African Proverb
she/her
Lisa Young, Founder
THE CO-CONSPIRATOR
Caitlin believes theatre should show us the world not only as it is, but as we would have it be. Proud to serve alongside these strong people and leaders furthering justice and liberation for EVERYONE.
"Shallow understanding from people of good will is more frustrating than absolute misunderstanding from people of ill will."
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
