IAC: Accessiblity

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Governor Mitch Daniels

Accessibility

Because the Indiana Arts Commission receives and re-grants federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), all IAC-funded applicants are subject to the provisions of Sections 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. However, all arts organizations and other arts providers should be familiar with the provisions of the ADA and providing access to programs, facilities and services for people with special needs.

The greatest barrier to accessibility is a person's attitude towards the process of making spaces and programs accessible. Often people tend to think of installing a ramp at an entrance as a hassle rather than an opportunity to extend a welcome to parents with strollers, staff loading in artwork or supplies, or a treasured donor with a broken foot. Everyone appreciates improved access!

March is Disabilities Awareness Month

Painting with wheelchair - Photo by Joe Draper Governor Mitch Daniels proclaimed March as Disabilities Awareness Month and encouraged Hoosiers to do more to promote inclusion, independence and employment for people with disabilities. The arts have a long history of inclusion and the embracing of diversity on many levels, including people with disabilities.

For years, museums, theaters and galleries have been among the vanguard of venue accessibility. They have led the way in providing interpretations for the visually and hearing impaired, and often develop special productions or exhibitions specifically catering to a "special-needs" audience. But some might ask the question, what about the artist with a disability, or the person who wants to experience the arts beyond the role of audience member?

Employing Creativity Forum Session Summaries

On October 5-6, 2004, the IAC, the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community, and VSA of Indiana hosted Indiana Art Works, a forum for artists with disabilities. Learn more about the session discussions.

Accessibility Resources

Spotlight

Upcoming Deadlines & Events

May 27 - Committee on the Future & Cultural Trust Advisory Board Meetings
May 28 - Artisan Development Project Meeting
May 29 - Advocacy and Awareness Committee & Program Evaluation Committee Meetings
June 13 - Quarterly Business Meeting (Individual Artist Grant Recipients will be announced after this date)

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