As the post-strike industry calls for more inclusivity in Hollywood, IndieVisible Entertainment is expanding its production accessibility training program.
IndieVISIBLE Entertainment is expanding its Production Accessibility training program with the launch of the Access Instigators program. Unveiled this past Friday, the Access Instigators program will be led by disabled industry experts and tailored towards disabled crew and creatives. The program aims to cultivate careers in Production Accessibility, a recently recognized film industry space that fosters accommodating production processes and spaces.
The 8-month pilot program will be comprised of up to 10 multiply-identifying disabled trainees, providing them with essential hard and soft skills for practicing production accessibility in professional settings from development through exhibition. The program includes one-on-one mentoring, community building, and hands-on on-set experience, allowing trainees to connect with community and industry leaders and prepare for successful careers in the media industry.
The Need for Inclusive Practices
The program comes at a time when the industry is increasingly recognizing the importance of production accessibility. The COVID-19 pandemic and recent union strikes have highlighted the need for change, and IndieVISIBLE believes that production accessibility benefits all cast, crew, and creatives.
“Disabled creatives have long been at the forefront of integrating accessibility into their production processes,” IndieVISIBLE shared in a statement. “In light of the COVID-19 pandemic and recent union strikes, the broader industry is recognizing that the need for change extends beyond Disabled individuals. Production Accessibility benefits all cast, crew, and creatives by fostering an environment conducive to producing groundbreaking content and maintaining safe, sustainable careers. Hiring Production Accessibility roles is a crucial step toward a more compassionate and inclusive industry.”
IndieVISIBLE's Commitment to Accessibility
Founded in 2018, IndieVISIBLE is a QueerCrip-led productions company dedicated to crafting safe and accessible spaces to tell LGBTQ+/Disabled stories through perception-bending genre and experimental media projects. Their recent work includes Apple TV+’s 2023 Emmy-nominated family comedy “Best Foot Forward,” as well as “Patrice: The Movie,” a documentary rom-com shining a light on disability rights activist Patrice Jetter. The latter film will have its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September.
With aims of setting a new industry standard, IndieVISIBLE’s projects emphasize accessibility, authenticity, and human wellness.
The Future of Production Accessibility
The Access Instigators program is a significant step forward in the movement for greater inclusivity in the film industry. By providing disabled creatives with the skills and experience they need to succeed, the program has the potential to create a more just and equitable industry for everyone.
The program is now seeking 10 multiply-identifying disabled trainees to fill its first cohort. Applications are open online through Sept. 10. This initiative is poised to be a driving force in the future of film production, paving the way for a more equitable and accessible industry. It's about recognizing the value of diverse voices and talents, creating an inclusive environment, and fostering a new generation of filmmakers equipped to drive positive change.
This program exemplifies the commitment of IndieVISIBLE to creating a more inclusive and accessible film industry. By providing training and opportunities to disabled creatives, the program is helping to break down barriers and create a more equitable playing field for all.
