Values

The mission of MATV has always been – to give voice to and engage residents, to give access to a platform for expression in a way that gives democracy the best chance of serving ALL OF ITS PEOPLE. This vision that ALL people are given an equal chance to engage, create, and be heard and seen continues as we increase our capacity and make deliberate steps to ensure that we are truly thoughtful and inclusive. On this page we share how we are putting our values into action. Our journey continues.

Access for all

Values in Action

Introducing a pay what you can membership model to ensure as many people/groups can participate in UMA events and programs, unhindered by economic challenge.
Forming a membership advisory team, reflective of the broad array of Malden’s social, ethnic, gender, religious, age, racial, and economic diversity.
Participating in the Innovation and Learning Network (ILN), an educational opportunity provided by the Mass Cultural Council – as part of the Universal Participation Initiatives (UP). This will provide us with a series of learning workshops in design principles, legislative compliance, policy development, and engagement strategies; a user/expert consultation; and a website audit by the National Center for Accessible Media. Upon completion of the ILN, we will receive the UP Designation.

Social Justice Sensitivity

On behalf of UMA, formerly MATV, Executive Director Ron Cox has affirmed solidarity with social justice movements such as Black Live Matter, and renounced systemic racism.
UMA Staff and Board engaging in learning conversations internally to become more sensitive and aware of systemic racism – subtle and overt.
We will be deliberately looking for ways to showcase media that gives voice to the underserved and offering a catalyst for change.
We are sharing books, videos, podcasts, and articles that help increase this awareness and sensitivity.

Having Fun

Having Fun with humor and enjoyment continues to be an important feature of what UMA does and how it does it. This needs little explanation, but we hold this value as key to helping bring down walls, getting perspective, and helping people feel comfortable to learn and give fully.

Celebrating diversity

We continue to invite a variety of types of people, artists, and groups to the table for our events and programs.
Many of our programs will feature various cultural performances and art.
We will collaborate more closely with various local cultural organizations to ensure that we can invite more of our local immigrants to share their rich heritage.
We will continue to provide articles through Citizen Journalism, that tackle issues -from various sides.
We are carrying forward an important community initiative, Filmbuilding, that specifically has bridging cultural divides through collaborative filmmaking as one key theme and mission.

Collaboration

UMA will introduce online technologies that improve the ability to collaborate, share ideas, and start new initiatives – even while not physically together.
UMA will host events and meetups to bring people together to share ideas that can be a catalyst to collaborative initiatives that benefit community in various ways.
UMA is eager to connect those with expertise with those who need that expertise – in an online directory (coming soon).

Harness technology and media for good purpose

With the pandemic, it is clear that technology is a vital force for connection, wellbeing, and information sharing. Though it has its problems that need to be considered, UMA will work with technology professionals and the UP (Mass Cultural Council) initiative to ensure we can utilize the best technology – and experience to help fulfill our and your mission.
UMA will host a series of media mixers highlighting media makers who use their projects with positive change and wellbeing in mind.