Learn how to make your work more accessible in our Accessibility Training Series:
How we talk about and to each other matters. With the “r-word” making a comeback in the news and on social media, it is more important than ever to speak out against hurtful and stigmatizing language. But sometimes it’s hard to know what to say and the best way to be an ally. Should you say “person with a disability” or “Disabled person”? Â Or can you even say “disability” at all? In this interactive session, we will explore the Medical, Social, and Affirmative Models of disability and how attitudes and language about disability have changed over time. Participants will unpack the history behind some problematic terms and turns of phrase, learn how to spot inspiration porn, and practice how to advocate for more inclusive language in their communities.
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Who is this session for?
Anyone who wants to nurture more inclusive communities where they work and play. Whether you work in audience services, in the classroom, casting, or just as a citizen of the world, you’ll come away with a deeper awareness of disability history and how you can work towards more inclusive language in your community.
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Accessibility at this session
- Automated captioning is available
- ASL interpretation will be arranged as requested by registrants.
- A social story will be provided closer to the session to let you know what to expect
- If you have additional access needs, please let us know!
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Registration
Due to the interactive nature of this session, space is limited. Register early to avoid disappointment.
Registration is Pay-What-You-Can ranging from $30-$60. Please choose the pricing tier that works best for you at this time.
About the presenters
Emma MacLean has always been interested in work made at the intersection of art and disability. She has worked as a teaching artist for over a decade with the Spotlight program, Chicago Children’s Theatre’s Red Kite program and others. Emma is also a textile artist who makes work about illness and disability. Her quilts and other textile work has been displayed in exhibits across the US. Emma works to support individuals with disabilities in tech apprenticeships. Emma obtained her Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies certifications from IAAP.Â
Katie Yohe is a multi-faceted performer, director, producer, and educator with credits ranging from musicals to Shakespeare both in the U.S. and abroad. Katie holds a BFA in Drama from Syracuse University and a Masters with Distinction in Applied Theatre from The Royal Central School for Speech and Drama in London. As the Founder and Executive Artistic Director of A.B.L.E. – Artists Breaking Limits & Expectations – Katie has produced and directed over 30 productions including stage plays, feature films, and digital projects all featuring neurodiverse ensembles. Katie has adapted 8 stories from the classical canon, including the critically acclaimed Frankenstein produced in partnership with Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Katie has developed and led accessibility training for Northlight Theatre, UIC, Paramount Theater, and The Lyric Opera, among others. As a leader with a nonapparent disability, Katie centers accessibility throughout the creative process, and approaches her work with the ethos that the arts belong to everyone.
