By Cristian Gonzalez
Equity in the arts has moved to the center of cultural discussions in cities across the country, where diversity is not just recognized but celebrated. As the capital of California, Sacramento is uniquely positioned to lead this effort by showing how arts funding, access and representation can be managed to reflect the community.
Equity in the arts refers to fair and inclusive participation in cultural activities, ensuring that everyone — regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation or socioeconomic status — has equal access to arts resources. This concept challenges historical inequities that have marginalized certain groups, particularly communities of color and those from rural areas.
When only certain voices are heard, it creates a skewed understanding of a community’s cultural makeup. Equity in the arts aims to more accurately portray the diversity of communities by providing more opportunities for community engagement with local culture and channeling economic growth toward a more inclusive arts sector.
In Sacramento, various organizations work to ensure that equity in the arts is more than just a buzzword, but rather a means to contribute to a meaningfully inclusive environment. Residents can find various initiatives and organizations to support in tangible ways; including donating to specific groups or making cultural events a success by showing up.
But challenges still exist. An October 2024 report by the California Arts Council revealed that a significant portion of arts funding still goes to a small percentage of organizations, typically those with larger budgets and less diverse backgrounds. Organizations trying to work toward equity in the arts continue to advocate for changes to funding models to promote greater inclusivity.
Such arts organizations make use of innovative funding strategies, like microgranting and crowdfunding, to increase access to arts funding. Additionally, increasing community involvement in decision-making processes can help ensure that the voices of community members are taken seriously.
Sacramento’s trajectory toward cultural equity in the arts is promising. Continuous engagement from local government and private funders has been crucial to sustaining momentum. There is a focus on supporting initiatives that provide equitable funding and inclusive hubs where artists are valued as economic drivers and community members have access to cultural events.
Here are some key players in California and elsewhere that have contributed to the effort:
On Our Team
On Our Team developed Pay Equity Standards that offer theater companies that meet all the criteria a certification badge to display, allowing patrons to make informed choices. The Pay Equity Standards serve as a framework for theater companies to ensure fair pay practices. This framework calls for transparency, better working conditions and accountability. On Our Team also provides a number of resources that advocate for equity in the arts and fair pay practices.
Email: info@onourteam.org
Learn more: www.onourteam.org
California Arts Council (CAC)
California Arts Council’s statewide efforts include its Cultural Pathways program, working to create a more equitable cultural landscape across California by supporting small arts organizations that serve marginalized peoples. The CAC’s initiatives are designed to share knowledge and put learning into action, helping to ensure a fair distribution of cultural funding.
Address: 2750 Gateway Oaks Dr., Suite 300, Sacramento, CA 95833
Phone: (916) 322-6555
Learn more: arts.ca.gov
Sacramento Alliance for Regional Arts (SARA)
SARA champions arts education and cultural equity by building recognition and support for artists and arts organizations in the greater Sacramento region. Its commitment to removing barriers to equity and access is aimed at ensuring the entire region can thrive artistically and culturally.
SARA hosts advocacy events open to the public and publishes arts grant and employment opportunities on a regular basis.
Learn more: www.artsforsac.org
CLARA – E. Claire Raley Studio for the Performing Arts
CLARA provides a space where diverse artists and communities can come together to share work and collaborate. This center believes in the transformative power of the arts to create community ties and promote intercultural awareness, channeling this power through arts education programs for students in the Sacramento City Unified School District and hosting workshops and showcases featuring local professional artists.
Address: 2420 N St., Sacramento, CA 95816
Learn more: www.claramidtown.org