DEI Statement 

The SALOON Network is committed to cultivating a vibrant and inclusive community for women-identifying art professionals and non-binary individuals within the global art world. We recognize that diversity, equity, and inclusion are fundamental to achieving our mission of fostering collaboration, exchange, and innovation among art professionals. As a global network of professional curators, artists, journalists, gallerists, and other art practitioners, the SALOON Network strives to create an environment that reflects the rich diversity of perspectives, experiences, and identities within our societies.

This DEI statement is a living document that reflects the evolving revisions in language and will be continuously adapted.

Our Commitment to Diversity

We celebrate the diverse identities, cultures, and experiences of our members and actively seek to amplify underrepresented voices in the arts. We understand that diversity is not merely about representation but about fostering a culture that values and integrates varied perspectives to enrich the collective experience of our network. We pursue an “open door policy” and particularly encourage participation from BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), cis and trans women, as well as non-binary individuals and gender non-conforming people who acknowledge and support our network’s mission to center the experiences of women whose contributions to the arts are essential in shaping a more inclusive and equitable art world.

Equity as a Core Principle

Equity lies at the heart of the SALOON Network’s mission. We are committed to dismantling systemic barriers that have historically marginalized certain groups within the art world. By addressing inequities in access, resources, and opportunities, we aim to create a level playing field where all members can thrive. This includes advocating for fair compensation, recognition, and professional development opportunities for women-identifying and non-binary art professionals.

Inclusion as a Practice

We strive to build a welcoming and inclusive environment where every member feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute. Through our programming - such as monthly meetings, public events, portfolio reviews, and international meetings and exchange programs - we ensure that all voices are heard and that members from diverse backgrounds have the opportunity to connect, collaborate, and lead.

Intersectionality and Anti-Racism

The SALOON Network is deeply committed to intersectional decolonial, anti-racist and feminist principles. We recognize that individuals experience the world through multiple, intersecting identities, and we work to ensure that our practices reflect this understanding. By collaborating with other communities and organizations, we actively foster cross-cultural exchange, mutual understanding, and solidarity across diverse backgrounds. We are dedicated to challenging and transforming structures of power and privilege within the art world to promote greater equity and inclusion.

Acknowledgement of Local & Cultural Facets 

We are dedicated to dismantling unjust power relations, hierarchies, white supremacy and patriarchy. As an international network, we acknowledge that our members experience these conditions differently depending on their local communities or cultural environments. We recognize them as shared concerns that link and bind us together.

Solidarity Among All Women

To foster solidarity among women and women-identifying art professionals, it is crucial to acknowledge the positive aspects of all women's movements. Solidarity among cis women, lesbians, intersex individuals, non-binary, trans people, and agender individuals and BIPOC is essential to combat discrimination and build a strong community. It is important to break down unconscious biases to create a respectful coexistence. Additionally, we support the implementation of women's quotas to promote equality in leadership positions and make women's voices more visible. Together, we can create a fairer future where every woman can reach her full potential.

Inclusivity for Women with Disabilities

We strive for inclusivity for women with physical disabilities. Many galleries and communal spaces present significant barriers, such as the absence of wheelchair ramps, inaccessible seating, and insufficient accommodations for individuals with hearing impairments. It is essential to ensure that these individuals have adequate support within our community, allowing them equal access to opportunities and experiences. By advocating for necessary changes and fostering an inclusive environment, we aim to empower all women, regardless of their disabilities.

Accountability, Actions and Growth

We recognize that achieving diversity, equity, and inclusion is an ongoing process that requires continual learning, reflection, and action. As such, we are committed to holding ourselves accountable to these principles and to evolving our practices based on feedback from our members and the broader community. We welcome open dialogue and constructive critique as essential tools for growth and improvement. We remain committed to fostering an inclusive art community that truly represents the diverse members of our global society.

DEI Committee

The SALOON members Petra Ronzani (Berlin, Munich) and Rah Eleh (Toronto) form the DEI Committee are both trained professionals who understand conflict resolution through the lenses of antiracism and intersectionality. They are available to assist all SALOON members with questions and concerns. We offer intersectional training to members from participating SALOON cities, ensuring ongoing education and adequate training in DEI principles. For further actions and to learn more about our core values and principles, please visit our Code of Conduct.

Vision for the Future

Our vision is to create a global network that not only reflects the diversity of our societies but also serves as a catalyst for positive change within the art world. By embracing and fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, the SALOON Network endeavours to dismantle barriers, amplify marginalized voices, and build a more just and inclusive art world. We aim to inspire and support the next generation of art professionals by providing mentorship, resources, and opportunities that empower women-identifying and non-binary individuals.