1. Staff Training The ADA and You November 2011

2. You, the staff Are considered to be the most important single asset of any cultural institution

3. Defining Disability Preconceived stereotypes do not always apply Many individuals with age related disabilities do not label themselves as a person with a disability Disability goes beyond just a wheelchair A disability is not always detected visually Disability goes beyond the visitor, what about staff?

4. Our Goal Today is to…….. To give each employee the tools to become more inclusive and comfortable involving individuals with disabilities in your activities/job functions How not to just meet the basics of the law but to provide a richer experience for everyone Provide you with updates to the ADA and resources to help you better understand how to be more accessible not just physically but programmatically as well

5. WHY????? It’s the law To reach out to underserved audiences WV has the highest percentage of individuals with disabilities WV has the highest group of adults over the age of 65 It effects us all in every position, not just front line staff

6. HOW????? Examples: Using people first language Using correct fonts for exhibit labels, signage and print materials Do we advertise the accessible services we provide by using the universal symbols for accommodations Is the website readable by a screen reader Do you know how to use the TTY phone system Are alternate formats available to our printed materials Are volunteers and staff trained on what accommodations WVDCH does offer and what is possible with notification

7. People First Language Identify the person first, not the disability-See the person not the disability Example: An artist with a disability not disabled artist Avoid usage of the word(s) handicapped/disabled/the blind/suffers-victims of-afflicted with Don’t use “normal” to describe people without disabilities Never use the work “retard” or “retarded” Speak directly to the individual not to companion or interpreter Treat adults like adults

8. Fonts Fonts and more Fonts Font size is no smaller than 12 pt. When possible use 14 pt font-applicable to brochures, newsletters, magazines, etc Large print materials use between 14 and 24 pt font For effective exhibit labels use a minimum of 24 pt font with high contrast; should be mounted between 48” to 67” from the floor; are readable from a seated position and approachable within 3 feet to view Font selection is simple. Do not use compressed, condensed, complicated, decorative or cursive fonts

9. Access Symbols Free to download Easily promotes accessible places & programs Should be on marketing materials Can be found on: www.graphicartsguild.org/resources/disability- access-symbols/

10. Big Changes in the Law Service Animal definition Mobility Devices Ticketing Design Standards Safe Harbor Reduction of Elements

11. For more information Visit our updated resource section at www.wvculture.org/arts Design for Accessibility: A Cultural Administrator's Handbook found at: www.nea.gov/resources/Accessibility/pubs/DesignAc cessibility.html Please refer to the handouts for more detailed information Ask Rose and I will help you find the answer

12. Relax Do not approach Accessibility as something new and different Approach Accessibility as a way to reach out to everyone in your community Relax and think about Accessibility with Universal Design in mind-the best way to accommodate everyone