Equity & Access

COMPAS is dedicated to addressing racial, ethnic, and income disparities in Minnesota and making our programming accessible to all Minnesotans.

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A teaching artist holds a child while she teaches attendees at a COMPAS program.

COMPAS Equity Framework

COMPAS is dedicated to addressing racial, ethnic, and income disparities in Minnesota. With a significant portion of our teaching artists identifying as BIPOC and representing non-dominant US cultures, we prioritize delivering creative learning experiences to marginalized, under-served, and under-resourced communities. By offering students access to racially and culturally diverse role models, we aim to foster connections between dominant and non-dominant cultures and engage students in developing their potential while bridging the opportunity gap many experience when trying to access creative opportunities.

Land Acknowledgement

COMPAS acknowledges it is situated on Dakota territory, known as Mni Sota Makoce (Land of Misty Waters), inhabited by the Dakota Oyate since ancient times. We recognize the long history of settler colonialism, oppression, genocide, broken treaties, and forced assimilation policies perpetrated by the United States against Indigenous peoples, the rightful stewards of this land. We are committed to promoting healing, reconciliation, and respect for Indigenous communities. We strive to repair more than we harm, to foster understanding and partnership with the Dakota Oyate, other Indigenous peoples, and each other through ongoing learning and engagement.

Office Facility Accessibility

COMPAS’ offices are located in the Community Action Partnership of Ramsey & Washington Counties building in Saint Paul, which meets ADA standards. Fully accessible parking is located on the south side of the property and a permanent ADA ramp is provided for entrance to the building. The COMPAS office on the third floor is accessible by elevators located near the main entrance. There are two ADA Accessible parking spaces at the main entrance with a ramp to the front doors. An ADA Accessible restroom and an all-gender restroom are located on the second floor.

Have questions about accessibility or need to request a particular accommodation? Contact Jes Reyes at [email protected] or 651.292.3209.

Program Accessibility

At COMPAS, we believe in the transformative power of the arts to empower individuals of all abilities. We strive to make all of our programming accessible and welcome the opportunity to ensure your needs are met at all of our programs and events. Have questions about accessibility or need to request a particular accommodation? Contact our Accessibility Coordinator Jes Reyes at [email protected] or 651.292.3209.

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COMPAS is an arts education nonprofit that puts creativity in the hands of Minnesotans, regardless of their age, background, or skills. Based in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area, COMPAS teaching artists deliver creative experiences and arts programming across Minnesota.

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This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.