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"As Presenters Cut Back on Streams, Some Disabled Arts Lovers Feel Left Out"

Kristin's picture

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Celia Levy's picture

Hi Kristin,

Thank you so much for sharing this article! My apologies for the delay! I just got around to giving it a thorough read. 

The New York Times article “As Presenters Cut Back on Streams, Some Disabled Arts Lovers Feel Left Out” raises important questions about accessibility in the arts and the impact of the pandemic on disabled art lovers. The article highlights the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities who rely on online performances to enjoy the arts as many organizations have reduced or discontinued their offerings. 

 Accessibility within the performance is of the utmost importance. All members of society, regardless of ability should be able to access the arts. The pandemic only exposed and exacerbated existing inequities in access to the arts, especially for individuals with disabilities. While online performances have provided some disabled art lovers, the article suggests that many are being left behind as presenters cut back on their digital offerings. 

The situation underscores the need for arts organizations to prioritize accessibility and inclusivity in their programming, both in-person and online. It is crucial to ensure that disabled art lovers are not excluded from the cultural experiences that so many of us take for granted. This may require investment in technology and infrastructure to support online accessibility, as well as more creative thinking about how to make in-person events more inclusive.

The article acknowledges the funding challenges and urges programs to prioritize accessibility. I love the perspective which the article provides. By speaking to patrons and artists, the article’s author balances both sides and exposes the challenges.

In conclusion, the article highlights the ongoing challenges faced by disabled art lovers and the need for greater efforts to ensure that everyone has equal access to the arts. As a society, we must work to address these issues and promote inclusivity in all aspects of our cultural life.