“Equity is not a trend, it’s a responsibility”
Accessibility, Inclusion, and Equity
At Civic Muse, we are committed to creating spaces, both physical and digital, that are inclusive, equitable, and accessible to all. Our work is grounded in the belief that cultural expression thrives when diverse voices are heard, valued, and empowered.
We actively seek to dismantle systemic, structural, and attitudinal barriers that exclude individuals based on ability, race, gender, sexuality, age, language, income, or place of origin. We listen deeply, collaborate responsibly, and work in solidarity with communities to foster environments of mutual respect and cultural integrity.
Accessibility is not a checklist, it’s a mindset. Equity is not a trend, it’s a responsibility. And inclusion is not optional, it’s the foundation of everything we do.
We acknowledge that this is an ongoing journey, and we welcome feedback, learning, and dialogue as we continue to grow in this work.
Land Acknowledgement
Civic Muse operates on Treaty 1 territory, the ancestral and traditional lands of the Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and the homeland of the Red River Métis Nation.
We recognize and respect the enduring presence, sovereignty, and stewardship of Indigenous peoples on this land. We are committed to building relationships rooted in reciprocity, accountability, and truth, honouring the histories, cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities past and present.
We carry this acknowledgement not as a formality, but as a responsibility to act with care, humility, and commitment toward decolonizing our work and ourselves.
Founder and Principal of Civic Muse Inc
Meet the Founder
Dr. Stephen Borys is the Founder and Principal of Civic Muse Inc. and served as Director & CEO of the Winnipeg Art Gallery and Qaumajuq from 2008 to 2025.
He teaches at the University of Manitoba and the University of Winnipeg, in the art history and cultural studies programs, and serves on the Canadian Cultural Property Export Review Board, and was recently a board member with Economic Development Winnipeg.
A nationally respected leader in the cultural sector, he is a fierce advocate for reimagining museums as platforms for social change, Indigenous leadership, and community dialogue.
His work bridges curatorial practice, education, and cultural policy, grounded in a belief that art institutions must lead with purpose, collaboration, and accountability to the communities they serve.
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