Artshack’s mission is so special, but our leaders are falling short of it. Specifically, Executive Director McKendree Key’s actions have failed to meet our commitment to anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. The status quo hurts beloved community members, and disrupts Artshack’s operations as a non-profit in service of its BedStuy neighbors. Community members are compiling a timeline of recent and relevant events here.
Despite concerned community members’ requests to meet collectively with the Executive Director and the board to address it, no concessions have been made to engage in open, restorative dialogue between all parties. Furthermore, the Executive Director escalated their efforts to silence staff involved. We also have reason to believe the Executive Director is engaging in punitive efforts to restructure the organization to avoid accountability under the guise of financial strain, resulting in the removal of the Director of Development, Cameo, and the resignation of 4 board members, all Women of Color. Read the public letter from Cameo here.
But we will not be silenced! Click here to see our demands.
In the unfortunate event that workers are let go due to their involvement, we have set up a mutual aid fund that will continue to support them.
“Artshack Brooklyn is a nonprofit ceramics studio located in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn. We are an anti-racist, queer-affirming organization that celebrates the creativity of youth and honors people of all abilities. We believe in the healing powers of clay!” - Artshack Mission
Calls to Action:
Our Demands
No restructuring without community input
Including retaliatory staff firings or dissolving of programs.
Reappoint a diverse and representative board
Artshack Board of Directors should reflect equity, diversity, and inclusion and be active community space members, as stated in its mission.
Financial transparency
A recent and comprehensive budget and income statement, with explanations for any gaps or anomalies.
Accountability as an anti-racist organization
Including a public apology to the community, and a detailed plan of how the organization will address the harm caused and prevent future harm.