Message from the National Opera Association

NOA is committed to a message of love and compassion through opera.

In light of the current social unrest occurring across our nation, related to the senseless murder of George Floyd, we continue to stand united in our ongoing efforts to work for social justice and to eradicate racism. We embrace and celebrate our diversity, and stand in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. As educators, we seek to help our colleagues and students become global good citizens - humans who are committed to building a world where each person's voice has the right to be heard regardless of race, religion, or sexual orientation. Moving forward, our IDEA (Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, Access) Committee and Board of Directors will be charged with creating and implementing new resources, offering historical background information, and facilitating other ways we can begin to repair and grow as an organization and industry.

As an influential institution, higher education has a moral and ethical responsibility to provide students with an education that is firmly rooted in social justice, in the hope of eradicating the social and systematic racism in our country. As opera educators we are committed to providing our students with a safe place where they can develop their voices, engage in vigorous dialogue, and learn from one another.

We are the foundation builders of opera, and our foundation will forever be strong enough to welcome everyone in our house.