Dear Members of the Board,

This petition is written on behalf of members of the Theatre Baton Rouge community, seeking clarity and action on several important matters that have affected the well-being of individuals within our TBR family. As members of this community, we believe it is crucial to address these issues transparently and with accountability to ensure that Theatre Baton Rouge remains a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all patrons, volunteers, artists, and anyone who calls the theater a home. Until the items below are seriously examined and addressed, many community members will be refraining from auditioning, volunteering, and attending any TBR shows or events. 

1. Lack of Transparent Reporting Policies

There is a concerning lack of clear and transparent policy surrounding the reporting of incidents (Misconduct, DEI, etc.) and the subsequent procedures followed after a report is made. We ask that the board provide an explanation for why essential policies have not been put in place and clarify the measures being taken to address this gap. Additionally, we would like a detailed description of how the board plans to update and improve its governing documents to ensure that volunteers and members are fully protected from harm. Accountability is key, and it is important that these updates include a clear and actionable timeline for when these changes will be implemented.

2. Follow-up on DEI Initiatives

In recent conversations, there was a call to action regarding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training and policies. It is imperative that Theatre Baton Rouge leadership takes meaningful steps to foster a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all individuals. We are seeking an update on what has been done so far to implement DEI training and procedures. More importantly, we would like to know the timeline for the full implementation of these initiatives. This is not only a matter of compliance, but also of creating a culture where every individual feels safe, valued, and most importantly, heard.

3. Call for Public Apologies and Resignation

It has come to the community’s attention that a sensitive and private matter was mishandled in a way that not only compromised the protection of the individuals involved, but also led to retaliatory actions that could cause lasting harm. We request that the board members involved resign and publicly apologize for their corrupt handling of this situation and take immediate steps to address the consequences of these actions. An apology could go a long way toward healing the relationship between the community and the board, and restoring trust in Theatre Baton Rouge’s leadership after recent events.

In conclusion, we ask that these issues be addressed with the urgency and seriousness they deserve. Theatre Baton Rouge has always been a beloved institution, and with the right leadership and commitment to change, it can continue to serve as a model of excellence and inclusion in the arts community.

Thank you for your attention to these matters. The community looks forward to your timely response.