New Season, New Focus

BCC is going through an interesting phase. After more than a decade of establishing ourselves within the Boston community as a serious organization dedicated to maintaining a high standard of artistic integrity, it’s time once again to return to our social mission. Our founder, Hubie Jones, is quoted as once saying that this chorus was created because “through arts…authentic social integration, not just desegregation” could be achieved.

Since May, BCC has been participating in a competition of sorts created by ArtsFwd, an online network of leaders in the arts community. The competition was to define our biggest challenge as an organization, pose it as a question, then crowd source solutions. The question we came up with was: What role do racial dynamics play in creating obstacles for arts/cultural organizations that want to be more inclusive, effective, vibrant and relevant?

Intimidating, no? Suggesting there are simple solutions implies that there isn’t still the deeper issue of systemic racism in this country. To shy away from dialogue, however, does more of a disservice because it contributes to a perpetual cycle of disengagement by community leaders when it comes to discussing race relations.

BCC’s singers are very used to participating in frank discussions about even the most fraught subject areas. For this reason, they grow into thoughtful, astute, and civically engaged members of society. They are proof that addressing controversial issues straight on empowers them with a unique understanding of the world they live in. From listening in on rehearsals, group discussions, and casual conversation, there’s a sense that if anyone is going to bring change, it’s definitely these kids.

For the ArtsFwd challenge, we were encouraged to look at other organizations, to talk to movers and shakers in the arts world. This has its value. But it serves as a good reminder to never forget our most important constituents: the singers who have found a home at BCC.