We are absolutely outraged to witness the horrific death of George Floyd. We are appalled at the racial discrimination and violence against African-Americans that continues in our country to this day. During times like this, it is especially important for our Mandarins organization to stand steadfastly anchored in our values. Our foremost value that has stood unwavering throughout our 57 years is that of Respect. This is the Foundational Value that has flowed through everything that we do and throughout every life that we touch. We were founded in 1963, the same year that Martin Luther King Jr. gave his “I Have a Dream” speech, the same year that the 16th Street Baptist Church was bombed and the same year that John F. Kennedy was assassinated. We were formed during a time of racial discrimination and unrest.
Our Value of Respect is best articulated in our Mandarins Statement of Inclusivity in which we celebrate and embrace diversity. We continually strive to create a diverse and inclusive environment where all can feel welcomed and valued. And during these difficult times we stand in a company front, elbow to elbow contact, with all African-American Mandarins members, staff, alumni and fans. We are here for you. Black Lives Matter. #BlackLivesMatter #BLM
Mandarins Statement of Inclusivity
The mission of the Sacramento Mandarins is to transform the lives of youth through performing arts. We celebrate and embrace diversity in all of its forms including gender, race, sexual orientation, religion and socio-economic diversity. We believe that everyone brings their individual identity AND unites to create amazing musical ensembles.
In 1963, during a time of heightened discrimination, the Sacramento Mandarins (then Ye Wah) was formed to provide Chinese-American youth with a performing arts activity. As the world changed, so did the Mandarins, first opening up to members of Asian descent and now to people of all backgrounds. Today, we are proud to be one of the most inclusive and diverse organizations in the activity.
