Image via ©2021 Monterey Jazz Festival/Randy Tunnell

The historic Monterey Jazz Festival has issued a statement in regards to diversity, equity and inclusion ahead of its 65th edition set to take place at the Monterey County Fairgrounds in Monterey, Calif. on September 23-25.

The festival, which is the world’s longest continuously running jazz festival and was founded in 1958, pledged to promote equity, confront bias and honor the Black roots of jazz directly in the written statement. According to a press release the statement was an integral part of the Monterey Jazz Festival’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee’s strategic plan and had guidance and input from Oakland-based social impact consulting firm, The Justice Collective.

“I am proud of the intentional and thoughtful work that the entire organization has engaged in throughout this past year,” said Letty Ledbetter, Chairperson of Monterey Jazz Festival’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee in a press release. “The final statement articulates Monterey Jazz Festival’s commitment to prioritizing DEI principals moving forward.”

Read the full statement below.

Monterey Jazz Festival Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Statement:

Jazz sits within American culture as a singular and distinctive art form. It has been created by, perpetuated by, and anchored in Black voices and culture. Having begun presenting jazz in 1958, Monterey Jazz Festival has led the world in supporting and advocating for this legendary art form. Entwined in this story are two realities. Jazz has historically shuttered participation by women. Monterey Jazz Festival audiences have largely consisted of white males, due to geography and the fact that Black and female audiences have not been cultivated and maintained. To be on the path of diversity, equity, and inclusion these realities must be addressed in the policies and practices of Monterey Jazz Festival. As leaders in the field, to make change, we will look to these truths. We affirm our commitment to continuing to question our role within this important community of artists, to create innovative and accessible education and music programs that expand who experiences, performs, and receives this beautiful music.

The Monterey Jazz Festival takes its inspiration from the ethos of jazz and derives its strength from the diversity and inclusion inherent in the art form. We strive to reflect these values both on and off the bandstand, and in every aspect of the organization — the Board, professional staff and employees, volunteers, vendors, artists, students, donors, and attendees.