What we believe

Welcome! We are so excited you're here. Below you'll find some agreements and best practices we live by in the Artists for Joy Community. Please take time to read through them; you’ll be asked to accept them before you join our Zoom call or in-person events.

🫶🏽 Language matters

Whoever you are, wherever you come from, regardless of your experience or ability level, you are welcome here.

Help us welcome everyone by:

  • Naming your experience without making assumptions about others'

  • Creating space for all voices to be heard. (Hang back if you share often or nudge yourself forward if you have yet to share, as you're comfortable!)

  • Never using language that is racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic, ableist, classist, or xenophobic, as it will not be tolerated at Artists for Joy events.

  • Being mindful that sometimes discussions can touch on personal experiences that may be sensitive. Open communication is important, but we also need to be mindful of our collective well-being. If you choose to share an experience that may be sensitive or triggering, please be aware of the potential impact on others. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, please don't hesitate to take a break.

✨Creativity is soul-work

Be gentle with yourself and others as you discover and recover your creative impulse. Name what you need and honor others as they do the same. Never give unsolicited advice; the simple act of listening is incredibly powerful.

🤭 Have fun

There is an energy when a gaggle of fellow creative spirits comes together. It’s seriously the best thing ever. So, let the joy spill over when it comes. You aren't too late. You aren't out of time. You are right where you need to be. Here is your permission slip to enjoy yourself.

🗣️Speak up

Merideth and the co-facilitators are here to help (you will know who they are by the word "facilitator" at the front of their name.) Do not be afraid to ask them questions by directly messaging them in the chat or emailing us at hello@artistsforjoy.org. Please report any concerns or questions directly, and we will help however we can.