How does the American Alliance of Museums promote accessibility?

American Alliance of Museums (AAM) is an organization representing over 35,000 museums, “from art and history museums to science centers and zoos.” AAM supports museums by providing resources and a professional network for those who want to move the field forward in terms of innovation, equity, and inclusion.

As shared in AAM’s 2022-2025 Strategic Framework, the Alliance recognizes the essential roles of museums “in sustaining strong, inclusive, and resilient communities by enriching education systems, bolstering economies, strengthening the social fabric of communities, improving peoples’ well-being, and beyond.” They can only do so if they are inclusive of everyone in their communities, including those with disabilities.

Through accessibility articles within their Diversity, Equity, Access, and Inclusion blog, AAM promotes the full inclusion of individuals with disabilities in museums, science centers, and other informal learning spaces. Examples of article titles include the following:

• How to Procure Digital Services with Accessibility in Mind
• 10 Best Practices of Accessible Museum Websites
• “Access for All” Begins with Community Listening at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
• Staying in Touch: Addressing Concerns to Allow Tactile Exploration at Museums

For more information about accessible informal learning, visit the AccessISL website. Consider joining the AccessISL Community of Practice to participate in discussions and learn about opportunities to promote the increased participation of people with disabilities in informal science education offerings, training programs, and careers.