Amsterdam museums launch new communication approach to clarify accessibility of museums
"Accessibility is crucial for an inclusive society. We hope that with this uniform approach we can take an important step so that even more people can enjoy art and culture in Amsterdam. Designing this together with stakeholders and institutions is so important but was also very educational,” said Géke Roelink, chair of OAM (Consultation Amsterdam Museums) and director of NEMO.
The campaign
The introduction of the developed communication style is supported by a campaign in which the four ambassadors Eva, Erik, Jess, and Tijmen discuss the importance of clear communication about accessibility. The campaign is used online and in national daily newspapers and was developed by amsterdam&partners.
Involved partners in research
The museums in Amsterdam and amsterdam&partners will implement the symbols on the online platforms in the coming weeks. The Events Agenda on iamsterdam.com will feature a filter that allows visitors to discover the extent to which a location or event is accessible for people with disabilities. The symbols, campaign, and communication style have been developed in close consultation with advocacy organisations and subject matter experts, including Stichting Accessibility, Cliëntenbelang Amsterdam, De Special Social Club, and the Municipality of Amsterdam.
Knowledge and good examples have been gathered from the international partners Tourism Flanders and Visit Brussels. The organisations De Ongehinderd and Onbeperkt Genieten have also contributed knowledge and experience.
"With the launch of this new basic set of symbols to indicate accessibility for museums, an important step is taken towards an inclusive culture. Art and culture must be accessible to everyone, regardless of background or disability. Ableism, the systematic discrimination of people with a disability, can be fought together by overcoming barriers and making our spaces accessible to everyone. Together we create an inclusive environment where everyone can enjoy art and culture in the city,” says Alderman for Arts & Culture Meliani
National extension
The Accessibility Foundation has made a start. Together with the government, interest and industry organisations, experts, and users, they are working on the nationwide rollout of a consistent communication style to the entire recreation sector. This builds on the set of symbols developed for the museums in Amsterdam.
