After two years of rigorous consultation, testing and drafting, we are so proud to announce Disability Inclusion and Access Plan (DIAP) for the years 2024–2027! The DIAP is a formal action plan to ensure the transparency and accountability of our ongoing commitment to d/Deaf and Disabled artists and communities across the next three years. It demonstrates our strong determination to continuously achieve and enhance the accessibility and inclusion of our events and programs in 2025 and beyond.
DIAP focuses on five major areas to improve accessibility and inclusion for artists, audiences, staff, crew and volunteers at Midsumma:
- Changing attitudes and removing barriers to participation for LGBTQIA+ d/Deaf and Disabled artists and Communities
- Identifying and removing barriers – in our offices, event sites and digital/website
- Reducing barriers for LGBTQIA+ d/Deaf and Disabled people to obtaining and maintaining employment
- Promoting inclusion and participation of LGBTQIA+ d/Deaf and Disabled people in the community
- To hold the nuanced identities of our artists, audiences, staff, volunteers and stakeholders with care and compassion; to champion opportunities for full expression of these diverse identities.
These focus areas guide Midsumma’s ongoing actions as a national leader in d/Deaf and Disabled access and engagement initiatives. We have consulted and collaborated with different organisations and individuals in the community to develop the DIAP which suits their practical needs and best interests. We have also discussed with every LGBTQIA+ d/Deaf and Disabled artist we have worked with in Midsumma Pathways and Midsumma Festival to effectively implement the DIAP. To ensure we remain engaged, accountable and in consultation with our community, Key Access Organisations and Midsumma’s Access and Inclusion Advisory Group will review the DIAP every three years.
See DIAP: Disability Inclusion and Access Plan for the full version of our DIAP 2024 – 2027.
