Disability Pride Month, celebrated every July, serves as a powerful reminder of the unique contributions and experiences of individuals with disabilities. This month is dedicated to promoting visibility, fostering inclusivity, and challenging societal stigmas that often surround disability. The arts play a vital role in this celebration, providing a platform for expression, creativity, and accessibility. Artists from the disability community are using their talents to honor this month through various forms of artistic expression, including dance.
One such artist is Sarah Powers, who has made a significant impact through her expressive dance performances. In 2016, she performed in Flutter Productions’ OSITY, where she portrayed the character of the Cicada. Alongside her, “JJ” James Janis embodied the Sun, and together they reached for each other on stage, creating a visual representation of connection and unity. Their performance was not just a display of talent but a celebration of the beauty of diversity in the arts.
This year, as Disability Pride Month unfolds, many artists are stepping forward to share their stories and experiences through dance. The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) recognizes the diverse abilities and achievements of artists within the disability community, highlighting the importance of their contributions to the cultural landscape.
One of the key initiatives supporting artists with disabilities is the Careers in the Arts Toolkit, developed by the NEA and Art Beyond Sight. This toolkit aims to enhance equity, access, and inclusion for people with disabilities in arts careers. It addresses significant barriers that disabled individuals face in the arts and provides resources and professional development opportunities to help them succeed. The toolkit emphasizes that equal access to all aspects of community life, including employment, is fundamental to the nation’s principles.
Another inspiring story comes from Black Hills Works and Flutter Productions, which are dedicated to supporting adults with intellectual disabilities. Founded in 1958, Black Hills Works offers various residential options, employment support, and social enterprises. Flutter Productions, an all-ability theater and dance company, is set to present their 2024 FashionABLE: All-Ability Threads production, showcasing fashion designs created and modeled by adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Heather Pickering, the founder and artistic director of Flutter Productions, emphasizes the importance of visibility for individuals with disabilities, stating that through arts programming, they become part of the societal fabric.
Rebekah Taussig, a prominent advocate and author, also contributes to the conversation surrounding disability pride through her memoir, “Sitting Pretty: The View from My Ordinary Resilient Disabled Body.” In her work, Taussig shares her journey as a paralyzed woman and addresses the myth of ableism. She challenges the notion of an idealized typical body, arguing that everyone lives in bodies with limitations and points of access. Her narrative resonates with many, as it highlights the importance of representation and the need for authentic stories in the arts.
Another artist making waves in the dance community is Toby MacNutt, a queer, nonbinary-trans, disabled artist whose creative practices span dance, textile arts, and writing. MacNutt emphasizes the significance of embodiment and relationship in their work, advocating for joy in creation rather than profit. They highlight the importance of intentional movement and stillness, stating that dance can be expressed in various forms, not just on stage. This perspective is particularly relevant for disabled individuals whose ability to engage with dance may fluctuate.
Gaelynn Lea, a violinist and singer born with osteogenesis imperfecta, also exemplifies the spirit of Disability Pride Month. Lea developed a unique technique to play the violin and has gained recognition for her music, which blends original songs with traditional fiddle music. As a passionate advocate for disability education and awareness, she believes that celebrating disability culture can help dismantle stereotypes and foster understanding.
In the realm of dance, Alice Sheppard and Laurel Lawson of Kinetic Light are leading the charge for disability aesthetics. Their project-based dance ensemble focuses on accessibility and equity in performances. They emphasize the need for organizations to consider how they can create equitable artistic accessibility for audiences. Their commitment to inclusivity is evident in their work, which challenges traditional notions of dance and representation.
Filmmakers and disability rights advocates James LeBrecht and Day Al-Mohamed are also making strides in the media landscape. They co-founded FWD-Doc, a community dedicated to fostering an inclusive and accessible entertainment industry. Their efforts aim to create space for stories created by, for, and about people with disabilities. They highlight the importance of authentic narratives and the need for resources that support disabled filmmakers.
As Disability Pride Month continues, organizations like Dance Place are actively engaging with artists who have disabilities. In January 2024, Dance Place will present Dancing Wheels’ “Making Memories: A Journey through Dementia.” This performance not only showcases the talents of dancers with varying abilities but also addresses the impact of dementia on community members. The collaboration aims to create a safe and empowering space for artists with disabilities, fostering connections and understanding within the community.
Dance Place’s mission is rooted in inclusivity, ensuring that individuals from all backgrounds can see themselves reflected in the arts. By presenting performances like “Making Memories,” they are taking steps to build a more accessible and equitable dance community. The engagement with Dancing Wheels has allowed Dance Place to learn and grow, identifying areas where support is needed for artists with disabilities.
Through this engagement, Dance Place has strengthened community partnerships and created new connections. Collaborations with organizations focused on elder care have opened doors for conversations about dementia and the resources available to support affected individuals. The feedback collected from these experiences will inform Dance Place’s ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility and inclusivity in their programming.
As we celebrate Disability Pride Month, it is essential to recognize the contributions of artists with disabilities and the impact of their work on society. Their stories, performances, and advocacy efforts challenge stereotypes and promote understanding. By honoring their creativity and resilience, we can continue to foster a more inclusive and equitable world for all.
In conclusion, Disability Pride Month serves as a reminder of the importance of representation and inclusivity in the arts. Artists like Sarah Powers, Rebekah Taussig, Toby MacNutt, Gaelynn Lea, Alice Sheppard, and many others are paving the way for a more diverse and accessible artistic landscape. Their work not only enriches the cultural fabric of society but also inspires future generations to embrace their unique identities and express themselves through art.
As we reflect on the significance of this month, let us commit to supporting and uplifting the voices of artists with disabilities, ensuring that their contributions are recognized and celebrated year-round.
Source: Various
