IndieVisible Launches Production Accessibility Training Program For Crew With Disability

As the post-strike industry calls for more inclusivity in Hollywood, IndieVisible Entertainment is expanding its production accessibility training program.

On Friday, the QueerCrip production company announced its Access Instigators initiative, which is now seeking 10 multiply-identifying disabled trainees to fill its first cohort for an eight-month pilot program that aims to equip participants with the skills and experience necessary for immediate employment in professional productions.

Supported by the Pop Culture Collaborative Fund, a sponsored project of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, the training program will provide essential skills for production accessibility from the stages of development through exhibition. The program includes one-on-one mentoring and hands-on on-set experience, allowing trainees to connect with community and industry leaders and prepare for successful careers in the media industry.

“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.”

Applications for the Access Instigators program are open online through Sept. 10.

Founded in 2018, IndieVisible recently worked on the Emmy-nominated Apple TV+ family series Best Foot Forward, as well as the documentary rom-com Patrice: The Movie, about disability rights activist Patrice Jetter, premiering next month at Toronto International Film Festival.