OPEN SPACE ARTS, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, is dedicated to combating homophobia and transphobia through the transformative power of creativity and cultural expression. Our mission is to foster inclusivity, promote understanding, and empower marginalized communities by utilizing various artistic mediums to challenge discriminatory beliefs and attitudes.
OSA won some of the top honors in the Joseph Jefferson Awards for work produced in 2024, including Production of a Play – Short Run (COCK), Direction of a Play – Short Run (Michael D. Graham - LIGHT SWITCH), Performer in a Principal Role – Short Run (Philip Andrew Monnett – LIGHT SWITCH), and Performer in a Supporting Role – Short Run (Sonya Robinson – COCK) .
OSA showcases powerful LGBTQ+ storytelling through five exciting components:
Open Space Arts (OSA) is an equal opportunity, nonprofit corporation committed to serving a diverse population. OSA does not discriminate against individuals or groups on the basis of race, creed, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, familial status, age, citizenship status, veteran status, or the presence of any disability in the administration of its policies, admissions, employment, volunteers, programs, contract services, or activities.
OSA will not support or donate to any nonprofit organization that engages in discrimination based on the aforementioned criteria.
In adherence to our commitment to inclusivity, OSA requires that all facility renters comply with our non-discrimination policy. Renters shall not hold an event, publicize, or distribute any advertisement, notice, or communication that supports, states, or implies discrimination based on race, creed, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, familial status, age, citizenship status, veteran status, or the presence of any disability.
Individuals who believe they have experienced discrimination while engaging with OSa or its activities are encouraged to report the incident promptly to [contact person or department]. All reports will be taken seriously and investigated thoroughly, and appropriate action will be taken as necessary.
We invite all members of our community—staff, volunteers, patrons, and partners—to uphold these principles of non-discrimination and contribute to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment at Open Space Arts.
Open Space Arts is located on land that is and has long been a center for Native peoples. The area is the traditional homelands of the Anishinaabe, or the Council of the Three Fires: the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi Nations. Many other Nations consider this area their traditional homeland, including the Myaamia, Ho-Chunk, Menominee, Sac and Fox, Peoria, Kaskaskia, Wea, Kickapoo, and Mascouten. The City specifically acknowledges the contributions of Kitihawa of the Potawatomi in fostering the community that has become Chicago. We acknowledge all Native peoples who came before us and who continue to contribute to our City. We are committed to promoting Native cultural heritage.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.