The Black Lens Contributor
“One Nail at a Time” is a line from the stage play, “The Glass Menagerie,” referring to how escaping a nailed coffin takes one nail at a time. Moderator Kiantha Duncan opened the Civic Theatre community conversation with a scene from the play, setting the tone that to escape a seemingly closed situation, we must be released from the coffin one nail at a time. Duncan, an experienced and empathetic moderator of tough conversations, urged the audience to be curious about each other’s perspectives and to recognize that it takes a willingness to be open to one another to create change.
The recent pause of “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” at Spokane Civic Theatre sparked an important and necessary community conversation about representation, inclusion and accountability within our local arts institutions. Concerns raised by community members and artists focused on casting practices and whether they reflected the diversity and lived experiences of the broader Spokane community. At the same time, the theatre acknowledged these concerns, paused the production, and committed to creating space for dialogue and reflection.
On March 21, a community forum was held to bring these perspectives together in a shared space. The conversation was thoughtful, respectful and rooted in a genuine desire to be heard and to understand. About 100 community members attended, including artists, advocates, production crew and supporters of the theater. While there were differing viewpoints and some skepticism, the overall tone of the event showed a willingness to engage constructively.
Participants openly shared their experiences, raising concerns about access, opportunity and the need for more deliberate inclusion in casting and leadership. Some audience members expressed feelings of isolation, betrayal, retaliation and even outright discrimination. Theater representatives outlined the steps they have begun implementing, including pausing the production, examining structural changes and committing to ongoing conversations. The forum provided space for both accountability and reflection, which are crucial for progress.
What was clear throughout the evening is that this moment is about more than just one production. It reflects a broader opportunity for Spokane’s arts community to examine how its institutions can evolve to better serve and represent all members of our community. These solutions are neither simple nor quick. Building trust, strengthening relationships and implementing meaningful change requires time, transparency and ongoing effort.
Moving forward, all parties must stay engaged. Progress relies on ongoing communication, a willingness to listen and a shared commitment to thoughtful, measurable solutions. The conversation that started with this forum should not end here.
Lasting change happens when communities unite, not just during moments of tension but through ongoing partnership. This is a chance for Spokane to move forward intentionally, making sure our cultural spaces are welcoming, inclusive, and reflect the richness of our whole community.
Lisa Gardner is the NAACP President of the Spokane branch.