Public Review of NAfME Position Statements on Issues of Equity, Access, Diversity, and Inclusivity

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We Invite Your Input! 

In September 2016, the National Executive Board of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) began a review of all current position statements that currently appear on the NAfME website. Contexts have changed since a number of these were officially approved and adopted by the Association. We are undertaking this review to:

  1. determine if the position statement is still relevant;
  2. update the content, where appropriate; and
  3. provide a more concise and consistent format for all position statements.

The first two position statements, one dealing with equity and access to music education for our nation’s students, the other focusing on diversity and inclusivity within the music classroom and music education profession, are now available for public review and comment.

The Equity and Access in Music Education Position Statement details how access to music education is not available in every American public school or for every child, and what actions NAfME and music educators can take to address issues of equity and access.

The Inclusivity and Diversity in Music Education Position Statement highlights how the profession and students benefit from diversity – within the music we create, perform and respond to, and with the people with whom we make music as students and teachers. Again, the statement highlights actions NAfME and music educators can undertake to create more inclusive music-making environments in schools and across the nation.

Participating in the Public Review

All music educators, advocates, students, parents, researchers, and other stakeholders in music education are invited to provide their ideas for clarifying and strengthening the NAfME position statements currently under review. We ask that you provide your feedback by Friday, December 16, 2016. To participate, please:

  1. Review the draft statements of interest
  2. Place your suggestions in the online survey or email your suggestions to Lynn Tuttle at LynnT@nafme.org.

Relevant Research

Both position statements will be supported with cited research studies backing the position taken by the Association. While the drafts include a few such studies, NAfME welcomes additional relevant research citations. Citations or questions regarding the research currently cited can be forwarded to Lynn Tuttle at LynnT@nafme.org.

Next steps following the Public Review

Once the review window closes, a Committee of the National Executive Board will work with staff to review all comments provided and determine a final draft of both statements. Based on feedback from this review, the statements may be reissued for additional feedback from membership or may proceed directly for review by the National Executive Board.

Lynn Tuttle, Director of Content & Policy, Center for Advocacy, Policy, and Constituency Engagement, November 22, 2016. © National Association for Music Education (NAfME.org)

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