Volunteers, if you’ve been following social media, you know the AGO posted a James Baldwin quote on Instagram and the Gallery homepage, (June 1) in solidarity with those who were protesting anti-black racism around the world. Accompanying a black square image, the quote read: “Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” Followers asked the AGO to do more, and the Gallery issued the following communication on all of its social media channels (and website), June 5. Sharing these important updated commitments, here.

We hear you. We know we haven’t done enough and we will do more. We’ve been silent as we reflect. But that silence speaks volumes.

We were devastated by the most-recent anti-Black racism. We believe strongly that Black lives matter. We acknowledge that words alone cannot address the many injustices and discrimination that Black, Indigenous and other marginalized communities continue to face.

We are engaged in conversations with our peers and the community and internally, from each department to our Leadership Team and the Board. We have not done enough either inside or outside our walls. We are committed to change – learning, listening and growing with our communities, and are committed to better reflecting the diversity of the community we belong to. We know that words are not enough and we are committed to action.

We will:
– Use our communication channels to support the voices of change in our culture
– Use our mission to ensure that the Collections, exhibitions and programs reflect the people who live here in Toronto
– Develop a specific plan to ensure that our Leadership, staff, volunteers and audience become more inclusive and diverse
– Hold ourselves publicly accountable to these goals

We are committed to sharing our progress with you moving forward and promise to be open and transparent. This is only the beginning.