Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) at Chautauqua
One of Chautauqua Institution’s core shared values is “The dignity and contributions of all people.” As a values-driven organization, Chautauqua sees IDEA as firmly rooted in the mission of the Institution, and it directly correlates with the vision and objectives set forth in the organization’s 2019–2028 strategic plan, 150 Forward. The resources listed below represent our collective efforts to welcome and celebrate diverse communities and individuals to our grounds and programs. A full listing of our community groups is available here.
Contact
Amit Taneja
Senior Vice President & Chief IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility) Officer
ataneja@chq.org
Creating an Inclusive Chautauqua & Beyond
Chautauqua Institution, in collaboration with the African American Heritage House (AAHH), invites all Chautauquans to participate in a free, 90-minute workshop this summer to help us collectively develop the awareness, tools and resources to create an inclusive community on the grounds. This workshop was developed in response to reports of unwelcoming or othering behaviors and comments that students, artists, performers and patrons of color have reported to the Institution (for example, see page A6 of The Chautauquan Daily, July 20-21, 2024 edition). Furthermore, many Chautauquans have asked for resources on how they can be helpful in these moments, and this workshop will provide guidance on how to respond in the moment.
IDEA Plan 2022-2024
IDEA is a cross-cutting imperative for the Institution’s strategic goals. The IDEA plan outlines specific objectives, focus areas and outcomes that will help us achieve our vision of becoming a truly just, equitable and inclusive organization.
African American Heritage House
The African-American Heritage House (AAHH) an organization, informed by the African American Experience, committed to strengthening Chautauqua by encouraging and welcoming diversity, fostering honest conversations, and adding new voices to the programmatic mix.
Chautauqua Women’s Club
The Chautauqua Women’s Club, founded in 1889, has enjoyed a long, proud, vital history as an integral part of the Chautauqua experience.
LGBTQ+ and Friends
The LGBTQ and Friends Group at Chautauqua Institution aims to expand diversity within the Chautauqua Institution community by creating a sense of welcome and shared community for LGBTQ people and by educating family, friends, allies, teachers, pastors and others, through dialogue, about the LGBTQ community and their experience.
Denominations and Religious Organizations
In addition to Department of Religion programs, Denominational Houses and religious organizations at Chautauqua Institution offer religious services, lectures and low-cost housing options during the nine-week Chautauqua season.
Accessibility at Chautauqua
Information regarding accessibility features, policies and recommendations can be found here.
CHQ Dialogues
The purpose of Chautauqua Dialogues is to foster and advance the ideal of a “beloved community” by providing a forum in which people of diverse backgrounds can bring their political, religious, cultural, and social beliefs, experiences and knowledge to conversations that matter.
From the IDEA Desk: Weekly Columns in The Chautauquan Daily
Nine weekly columns were published in The Chautauquan Daily during the 2022 & 2023 summer seasons to provide updates and promote dialogues around Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility. These columns are available via the link below.
IDEA Related News
Chautauqua institution has appointed Amit Taneja as its first Senior Vice President and Chief IDEA Officer. He provides leadership and serves as a facilitator to bring groups of constituents together to ensure the collective success of our IDEA efforts.