Why did Fulton Theatre’s IDEA committee dissolve?

IDEA Committee was theatre's commitment to DEI

• By Marquis Lupton

Airdate: April 26th, 2024

The Fulton Theatre’s decision to dissolve its IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility) committee has sparked discontent among some of its members. Kareena Rios, a former committee member, shared her insights on the matter during an interview on The Spark. Rios expressed disappointment, suggesting that the committee, tasked with addressing diversity and equity within the theater, was doomed from the start. The dissolution of the committee raises questions about the theater’s commitment to inclusivity and representation within its operations. Rios’s commentary sheds light on potential shortcomings in the theater’s approach to diversity initiatives. The decision to disband the committee comes amid broader conversations about equity and inclusion in the arts and entertainment industry. It underscores the complexities and challenges inherent in implementing meaningful change within institutions. The theater’s move has not only disappointed its former committee members but also prompted reflections on the efficacy of diversity initiatives in the entertainment sector. As stakeholders and observers continue to grapple with these issues, the incident at the Fulton Theatre serves as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to foster genuine inclusivity and equity within cultural institutions, and Lancaster City.

*We’ve reached out to the Fulton Theatre for comments, and will be interviewing them soon.*