The HPO’s Commitment to Diversity – Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra

The Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra condemns racism, discrimination and violence of any kind. We are listening to the voices of Black, Indigenous and underrepresented communities as they share the truth of their experiences. As we listen and learn from these perspectives, we seek to better understand, reflect and celebrate the diversity of our region, and this starts with committing to real, long-term change.

In 2019, the HPO formed a Diversity and Inclusion ad-hoc committee and adopted the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Declaration for Canadian Orchestras. The Diversity and Inclusion committee will oversee our commitments and share progress with our community on a regular basis.Through the mandate of our diversity committee, we commit to the following actions:

We will participate in anti-racism training at all levels of the organization
We will develop our artistic programming with a diversity of voices and perspectives
We will engage in thoughtful collaboration with diverse communities to serve them in a meaningful way

We engage in this process with humility and dedication.

Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility Declaration (IDEA)

In May 2019, the HPO adopted the following Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility Declaration (IDEA) provided by Orchestras Canada:

The Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra is committed to inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. Because we care about the vitality of our art form, we seek to better understand, reflect, engage, and celebrate our diverse community.

The full IDEA document created by Orchestras Canada may be accessed here.

Land Acknowledgement

The HPO land acknowledgement was adopted in January 2018. This land acknowledgement evolves with ongoing consultation from stakeholders.

Land Acknowledgement for FirstOntario Concert Hall, as well as venues at Mohawk College and McMaster University

We would like to recognize and acknowledge that we are gathered on the traditional territories of the Mississauga and Haudenosaunee nations, and within the lands protected by the “Dish with One Spoon” wampum agreement.

Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra’s Commitment

Given the findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the HPO is committed to reading a land acknowledgement at the beginning of our events to give time for reflection and to demonstrate recognition of Indigenous lands, treaties and peoples.

Action 79 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action calls upon the arts community, in collaboration with the federal government, survivors and Aboriginal organizations, to develop a reconciliation framework for Canadian heritage and commemoration. We regard the land acknowledgement as a first step in this direction with the goal of future artistic programs and collaborations to address this call to action.