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Unexpected Benefits of Accessibility

Part 5 of Arts & Inclusion, A Guide for Expanding Access to the Arts for Persons with Disabilities.

From William Coleman, CDE, Former Director of Arts Access –

You may be surprised by those who appreciate accommodations meant for others. For example, when offered the choice, many people will use a ramp or elevator instead of the stairs.

The aging population is the fastest growing demographic in the country. Although many do not self-identify as people with disabilities, they can benefit from fully accessible venues.

Open captioning and audio description can benefit many different people including the deaf, hard of hearing, aging persons and people with visual learning styles.

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A blind patron at the Brooks Museum of Art in Memphis recalled a tour led by a docent who vividly explained the surroundings and described the paintings. The patron was so impressed that she informed all of her friends and encouraged them to visit and enjoy the same tour.

Every arts agency, whether operated with paid staff or volunteers, should have someone who is responsible for ensuring that its programs and services are accessible. This document can be a first line of engagement in that process.

Seek peers, local or regional resources, the Tennessee Arts Commission and its statewide partners, and national resources including the National Endowment for the Arts Office of Accessibility and National VSA.

Guide

Foreword
Part 1: Strategies for Expanding Access
Part 2: Know Your Audience
Part 3: Programming for Inclusion
Part 4: Marketing Strategies
Part 5: Unexpected Benefits of Accessibility
Download complete document here.