The past few years have been challenging for all of us. The pandemic as well as social and political changes in the world have caused turmoil and stress that we have had to collectively deal with as individuals and as organizations. We acknowledge the tireless efforts of those in leadership that have kept this organization afloat during these difficult times.

However, the decision of the WCPA board not to renew William Southerland’s contract as Artistic Director was abrupt, unfair, unwarranted and communicated poorly. The rationale supplied is incongruent with the actions and behaviors witnessed in rehearsals, performances, and WCPA events. 

From an outside perspective, there have been disturbing actions within the Board that have not been transparent to membership. The Board Chair who was accused of inappropriate sexual misconduct and racist comments at a WCPA fundraising event helped bring about this decision in a closed session. Conveniently, in this same session it was decided to no longer allow membership to vote on Board appointments or retention. After some Board member resignations, there was a second vote with the remaining six members, but it should be noted that the only WCGC representation had a conflict of interest as the fiance of the former Board Chair.

In addition, when the news of the Artistic Director’s dismissal was finally communicated to membership, it was conveyed as “not up for debate” while leadership stifled all communication between membership through email and on the WCPA facebook social group. The Artistic Director was publicly shamed while given no opportunity to defend himself, as the Board Chair was allowed to quietly resign with no mention of his transgressions to membership.

From the point of view of singing members, William Southerland has consistently demonstrated and embodied WCPA’s mission statement (sing to inspire change, celebrate diversity, and honor the dignity of the LGBTQ+ community). William has been a champion for this organization. His expertise and skills with leading a virtual chorus was also indispensable at the beginning of the pandemic. He continued in welcoming many new members, creating an open and safe environment, and helping to change hearts and minds through art. 

Many of the issues outlined for his dismissal are more financial or managerial in nature, which would historically fall under the responsibilities of an executive director and not an artistic director. These point to an organizational issue, and a potential need to redefine roles and responsibilities.

How these events unfolded and how they are currently being handled has shattered our confidence in the accountability and decision-making of this organization, which many of us cherish deeply. It throws into question whether to continue our participation and support as singing members, donors, and staff. For the sake of the continued welfare of the organization, we formally ask the Board to reconsider the decision not to renew William Southerland’s contract or at the very least extend a probationary period to allow these issues to be rectified.