This month we’re focusing on accessibility in honour of the upcoming Disability History Month, which takes place from 20th November to 20th December. From relaxed performances and quiet hours at concerts and galleries, to exhibitions focusing on the history of accessible design, there’s plenty of opportunities around the city to explore, learn and discover something new.
Discover the history of accessible design
One of the most exciting exhibitions this season is undoubtedly the Victoria & Albert Museum’s Design and Disability. Showcasing the contributions of Disabled, Deaf and neurodivergent people to protest movements, adaptive design and culture, this exposé is a joyful celebration of inclusivity. With rest areas and a comprehensive access guide, this exhibition not only explores the rich history of Disabled designers challenging ableism in the design industry but also demonstrates how curators can make their exhibitions more accessible. If you’re interested in going, the Disabled Student’s Network is running a free visit on the 26th November for its members (https://studentsunionucl.org/whats-on/representation/design-and-disability-va-exhibition), or students can access £9 tickets at the link below.
Learn about the impacts of policy decisions
Another exhibition exploring the history of disabled access, 1880 THAT at the Wellcome Collection is quite literally pointing a finger at policymakers, providing a poignant reminder of how far accessible learning has come and how far it still has to go. Through installation artworks, drawing, film, and sculpture, artists Christine Sun Kim and Thomas Mader explore the history of sign language and sign language teaching. Focusing on the impact of policy decisions which encouraged oral education over sign language in Deaf schools in the 19th and 20th centuries, 1880-THAT serves as a powerful reminder of the need for inclusion at all levels of decision-making. The exhibition is completely free but only around for another week, so get in quick! More information about the exhibition can be found at the link below.
Enjoy some free music in a relaxed environment
As part of their immensely popular Lunchtime Concert series, the London Symphony Orchestra is hosting a special relaxed performance on the 28th November. Featuring famous chamber music performed by LSO and Guildhall school musicians, with a presenter and BSL interpreter present, this is a perfect introduction to classical music. You can find out more information about the event, including access support, at the link below.
If you’d prefer to watch online from the comfort of your own home, the concert will also be livestreamed on YouTube. You can find videos of previous concerts at the link below.
Explore new documentary films celebrating inclusivity
As part of their relaxed screenings programme, the BFI is presenting a special screening of ‘I Swear’. Telling the true story of John Davidson and his journey following his diagnosis of Tourette’s Syndrome at the age of 15, this new documentary celebrates his journey towards becoming a leading Tourette’s Syndrome campaigner. This screening also features an introduction and post screening discussion hosted by Stims Collective co-founder, Georgia Kumari Bradburn. Tickets are £4 and can be purchased at the link below.
If you’re interested in more accessible film screenings, the webiste Accessible Screenings UK [https://accessiblescreeningsuk.co.uk/] compiles information about accessible screenings near you.
To wrap up...
We hope that this Disability History Month you discover something new and creative. As always, this article only covers a fraction of the events taking place in London, so please do get in contact if you find something exciting you think we should share.
If you identify as Disabled, you can also check out the Disabled Student’s Network for more information and support throughout your studies.
Happy November!