I am writing a public apology to take accountability for work that I have created in the past using black and brownface makeup. I am deeply ashamed of this work and am sorry for anyone I have hurt in the past, present or future due to my creation of these works. It was incredibly naive of me to consider these works an act of tribute at the time. After beginning to educate myself about the history of blackface, I am both ashamed and sorry for how the content, delivery, and messages of my work as an artist and director contributed to the institutional and systemic racism I am coming to acknowledge. I will continue to listen and learn.
I pledge to continue to take anti-racist training, to studying the racist histories of culture and performance in the US, and to continue on action steps that will aid in dismantling the systems I have benefited from through my whiteness and my privileges (a process I recognize will be lifelong). I will do everything possible to further champion, amplify and empower BIPOC voices and welcome feedback and continued discussion today and moving forward.
This is an open letter that continues to grow and change. If you have any issues with this please do not hesitate to contact me. I will be available for any and all questions, suggestions, feedback or further conversation at jaimie.wdd@gmail.com.
Revised Statement: 7.10.20