A statement of solidarity from TDPS leaders

June 4, 2020

TDPS stands in solidarity with Black communities and all communities of color—all who are vulnerable, under siege, and at risk in our country. We believe we are united as faculty, students, and staff in principles that guide and inform our work as scholars, artisans, artists, educators, and researchers:

  • We reject violence and oppression.
  • We value dialogue and healing.
  • We value diversity and inclusion.
  • We stand with artists, creators, educators, students, and thinkers.
  • We stand with communities of color.
  • We stand in solidarity with all who are vulnerable, and with all who seek to protect the vulnerable.

It is an extraordinarily challenging time. We hope that every member of our TDPS community is healthy and safe, and we hope we can continue to find ways to support one another and all who need our support as we go forward, together. Below are some resources for supporting anti-racist organizations and educating yourself as an ally.

With hope, appreciation, and respect,

Lisa Wymore, Department Chair

Jean-Paul Gressieux, Department Manager


Campus Resources

Greater Good Science Center — In response to the killing of unarmed black people by police, Greater Good Science Center gathered pieces that explore our potential to reduce prejudice in society and in ourselves.

UC Berkeley Health Services — Healing resources for Black and African American students, and educational resources for allies

Anti-Racism in Performing Arts

DanceSpirit: How Dance Students Can Confront Racism and Implicit Bias in the Studio

Howlround Theatre Commons: Anti-Racist Theatre — A selection of content that calls out systemic racism in theatre and points toward anti-racist practices

We See You — A letter to White American Theatre from 300 BIPOC theatremakers