The 2021 Oscars marked a significant milestone by integrating a front-facing ramp into the Academy Awards’ custom-built stage for the first time. This initiative was spearheaded by Academy member Jim LeBrecht, who uses a wheelchair, in collaboration with his Crip Camp co-director and executive producer. The inclusion of the ramp at mainstream Hollywood events like the Oscars signified a notable shift towards diversity, equity, and inclusion in the industry.
Following the success of the ramp at the Oscars, efforts to enhance accessibility have expanded. The upcoming 2024 Oscars will feature a range of accessibility services, including confidential accessibility requests for all attendees, captioning services, audio description services, accessible seating and parking, and American Sign Language interpretation services across various events.
The Academy has made disability inclusion a core part of its infrastructure through initiatives like Aperture 2025 and the Office of Representation, Inclusion, and Equity. Accessibility features are now integrated into all Academy events, with closed captioning required for screenings and ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility for all members.
These advancements have been achieved through collaboration with disability advocates, consultants, and the Academy's disability and accessibility affinity group. The goal is to set a standard for the industry and inspire others to prioritize disability representation and accessibility.
Efforts to promote disability inclusion in Hollywood have been ongoing, with organizations like the Ruderman Family Foundation playing a crucial role in advocating for authentic representation of disabilities in film and TV. The foundation has worked with industry stakeholders to address employment and onscreen representation disparities, leading to positive changes in the entertainment industry.
Collaboration between the Academy and the foundation has resulted in significant progress towards creating inclusive and accessible experiences, including the development of the Academy Museum. The museum prioritizes accessibility in its visitor experience, offering a range of services such as accessible screenings, sensory kits, ASL tours, and program interpretation to cater to diverse audiences.
Through funding and support from the foundation, the Academy has launched initiatives like the Gold Rising Program to promote talent development and provide mental health resources for participants. These programs aim to address the longstanding issue of hiring disabled talent in Hollywood and create a more inclusive industry.
