We Stand with the Workers Behind the Wonder

Recently, stories have come to light about events in the Pacific Northwest that have shaken many within the Renaissance and themed event communities. These accounts have sparked important conversations about accountability, and the ethical responsibilities of event leadership. We express our full and unwavering support for the performers, vendors, volunteers, artisans, coordinators, and countless others who are the lifeblood of every Renaissance faire. 

 

As a volunteer-run 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the Spokane Entertainer’s Guild (SEG) is staffed by an unpaid Board of Directors and cast who strive to create immersive, joyful, and safe experiences through the storytelling and performance of historical fantasy. Our flagship event, the Spokane Renaissance Faire, is a labor of love brought to life by hundreds of contributors who pour their hearts, time, and talent into making a truly magical experience. We are deeply grateful to each and every person who chooses to be part of this shared endeavor. Without your commitment and skill, these magical worlds could not exist.

 

Over the last six months, the SEG has reflected deeply on our own history. We recognize that even with the best of intentions our past efforts have not always met the standard of care and inclusivity that our community deserves. We acknowledge this openly and without excuse. Growth requires honesty - and progress requires action. 

 

Transforming Our Practices: What We’ve Changed in 2025

In response to the evolving needs of our community, SEG has implemented a series of transformative changes this year to better serve our mission and the people behind it:

 

Strengthening Inclusivity and Community Care

The Board has aligned our position responsibilities and priorities to actively and continuously amplify underrepresented voices and create a welcoming space for all identities. 

 

Our application and participation processes have been updated to remove barriers to entry for marginalized and under-resourced participants.

 

The Code of Conduct and onboard training have been revised for all participants, performers, volunteers, and board members, to more clearly outline expectations for respectful behavior, inclusion, and safety across all events and communications.

 

Building a Culture of Transparency and Accountability

SEG has implemented open board sessions with published meetings and public financial reports to ensure that our community understands how decisions are made and funds are allocated. 

 

Clear grievance and feedback resolution pathways have been created, with options for anonymous reporting so that concerns can be voiced without fear of retaliation or dismissal. 

 

Investing in Sustainability and Long-Term Growth

Our 2025 Spokane Renaissance Faire has expanded to a three-day event, allowing for a broader range of entertainment, educational offerings, and community involvement, while being mindful of volunteer workload and operational capacity.
 

We have shifted to a long-term strategic development plan, focused on creating year-round engagement opportunities, volunteer training programs, and increased collaboration with regional nonprofits and cultural organizations.

 

Join Us in Building Something Better

The Spokane Entertainer’s Guild believes in the power of storytelling not only on stage, but in the very structure and culture of our organization. Our community is built not on profits, but on people. Our mission is to honor those people. To lift them up. To invite them in. To listen, learn, and grow with humility and conviction. 

 

We know that our work is not done. Not just for Spokane, but as part of a larger cultural movement toward more humane, inclusive, and joyful creative spaces. 

 

As we build a space that honors transparency, celebrates creativity, and puts people first, we invite any performer, vendor, artist, reenactor, or volunteer who is seeking community to join us. Together, we can build a space where the faire is not just a fantasy, but a shared reality shaped by inclusion, integrity, and imagination.

 

To every artisan, actor, blacksmith, bard, dancer, dreamer, and doer: 

We See You. We Thank You.

 

Huzzah!

 

The Board of Directors

Spokane Entertainer’s Guild