In recognition of Disability Pride Month, this conversation featured arts leaders whose professional and lived experiences have shaped their work in disability arts, accessibility, and cultural leadership.

Drawing on their expertise across the arts and culture sector, panelists examined the gaps between accessibility policy and practice, and discussed what becomes possible when disability perspectives are embedded in decision-making, governance, and programming.

Together, we explored how accessibility and representation can strengthen organizations, expand participation, and foster innovation, all while celebrating the vital contributions of disability arts to Canada’s cultural landscape.

Speakers:

• Alethea Bakogeorge, Director of Programs & Development, Disability Screen Office
• Raewyn Reid, Artistic Director, National accessArts Centre
• Jenel Shaw, Executive Director, Arts AccessAbility Network Manitoba

Additional Links and Resources: 

• Accessibility Audit for Arts Venues – Arts AccessAbility Network Manitoba (AANM)
• Anti-Ableism Workshop for the Arts – AANM
• Accessibility & Disability E-Learning Series – Disability Screen Office (DSO)
• Industry Events Access Program – DSO
• Industry Resource Hub – DSO
• Reframing Access: A Best Practices Guide on Disability Inclusion in Canada’s Screen Industry – DSO
• Our artists are excited – National accessArts Centre
• Tangled Art + Disability Toolkits
• Access Support Stream – Canada Council for the Arts (CCA)
• Application Assistance – CCA
• Accessibility – BC Arts Council
• Accessibility Projects Grants – Disability Alliance BC
• Manitoba Accessibility Fund
• Deaf Artists and Artists with Disabilities – Ontario Arts Council
• Better Backstages: Accessibility Toolkit For Music and Arts Spaces
• Easy Surf Grant Finder
• People First of Manitoba

Speaker Series is brought to you by:

Supporting Partner: