Dallas Black Dance Theatre Accused of Retaliation After Firing Dancers Who Unionized

DALLAS-Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT) is currently facing criticism for dismissing its entire primary company. 

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Dancers and supporters contend that this is retaliatory action in response to their recent unionization endeavors. 

On August 17, more than one hundred performers and advocates gathered outside the theater to protest, chanting slogans such as "Dallas Black, BRING THEM BACK!" in the sweltering humidity.

A social media video was cited as the reason for the termination of DBDT's performers, which sparked a controversy. The dancers, on the other hand, maintain that the firings are a clear example of union bashing, as they took place shortly after they voted to join the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) in May. 

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One of the dismissed dancers, Gillian Clifford, stated, "To abruptly dismiss our video as an unsatisfactory representation of the company, seven weeks after it was posted, is blatant retaliation."

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James Fuller, the theater's superintendent, defended the theater's actions, asserting that the performers had contravened company policies regarding the use of its name and brand. 

The  theater spokesperson observed, "The policies and the repercussions of violating them were communicated to each dancer." 

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At the same time, dancers contend that the video, which introduced them in a playful manner, did not contain any objectionable content.

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The Dallas City Council has expressed concern regarding the circumstances. Councilwoman Gay Donnell Willis stated, "This matter involves us because the city leases property to this organization for just $10 a year." 

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The council intends to conduct a more thorough investigation into the allegations, as the dancers are seeking reinstatement and accountability for what they identify as arbitrary firings.

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