Arts for All
The arts reflect our community and challenge us to think differently as we strive to be inclusive. ArtsFairfax believes the arts need to be accessibility to everyone and cultural equity is critical to the long-term viability of Fairfax County. The following resources are intended to assist arts organizations in providing accessible services to Americans with disabilities.
Arts Midwest Accessibility Center: One of six regional arts organizations, Arts Midwest has compiled an accessibility toolbox for arts organizations. Although there is some overlap with the resources here, it provides a succinct set of links and information for cultural organizations.
DC Arts & Access: a consortium of arts leaders from the Washington, DC metropolitan area, who focus on making their cultural venues and programs accessible to people with disabilities.
Design for Accessibility: This management handbook is designed to help organizations not only comply with Section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act, but also to assist in making access an integral part of planning, mission, programs, outreach, meetings, budget and staffing.
Didlake: Provides services to people with disabilities, including job opportunities, day support and services to local businesses. An example of a potential community partner that can help organizations connect with these prospective audiences.
GLAAD: A gender identity media guide from GLAAD.This guide is not exhaustive, and is Western and U.S.-centric. Other cultures may use different labels and have other conceptions of gender.
Leadership Exchange in Arts and Disability (LEAD) Kennedy Center: a professional network focused on expanding the breadth and scope of accessibility services and programming across the country. Holds an annual conference and has a range of resources on its site.
Theatre Development Fund: A New York City non-profit that provides a range of accessibility services to its member organizations. A good overview of the types of audio and visual aids available.