Statement on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility

Tau Beta Sigma is committed to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in collegiate bands by cultivating an inclusive culture which reflects our diverse membership and organizational ideals. We take action now and will sustain our progress toward these commitments in the future.

We demonstrate our commitment to DEIA by: continuing to educate ourselves; empowering and centering the experiences of members of historically underrepresented populations; fostering an inclusive environment in our chapters and band programs; and acknowledging and responding to the impact that our history has had on our Sorority.

In 2020, due to protests across the country in support of awareness of racial inequities and injustice, the National Council developed resources to help members and chapters learn how they can advocate and educate themselves. These resources are still helpful years later to help members understand how they can live our mission statement of “promoting equality and diversity,” and how to “be a friend to all.”

Resources for Chapters and Events

Meeting Accessibility Document

The Mission of Tau Beta Sigma aims to promote equality and diversity. To quote Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, “music is the universal language,” and we strive to foster an inclusive environment where all can participate and thrive in service to collegiate bands. We recognize that members of Tau Beta Sigma can encounter barriers that prevent equitable participation. We encourage Sisters to adopt an accessibility lens when planning meetings and have developed a resource with considerations that you will want to think through. We encourage you to also consult with your campus Accessibility Office.

Sample Accommodations Form

This sample form is a template you can use and adapt to gather information about the accessibility needs of the members of your Chapter. Given the sensitive nature of disability identity, please ensure that accommodations requests are kept private and that this form is only viewed by a designated official or committee.

Ritual Accessibility Guidelines

These guidelines are meant to help you adopt an accessibility lens when planning your Rituals to ensure all members can participate in an equitable manner.

Key Moments for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility

• 1950s – Latinas in Chapters in the Northeast and Southwest District
• April 12, 1958 – First Chapter at an HBCU – Beta Omicron at Texas Southern University
• 1975 – Gender restrictions removed from the National Constitution in response to Title IX
• March 25, 1977 – First Male Member – Kevin Sullivan at Gamma Omega at the University of Connecticut
• 1987 – First Black National President, Carla Robinson
• 1980s/1990s – First Male District Officers in Midwest, Northeast, and Southeast Districts
• 1999 – First Male Appointed Member of the National Council, Johnnie Vinson (National Vice President for Professional Relations)
• 2001 – First Latina National President, Sylvia Halbardier
• 2011 – First Male Elected Members of the National Council, Kevin Earnest and Jonathan Markowski
• 2015 – First National President from an HBCU, Dr. Kathryn Kelly
• 2017 – First Male National President, Jonathan Markowski