Accessible and inclusive programming, including disabled persons and older adults, requires regular attention to all aspects of VPH programming. We want to incorporate best practices in the arts sector as well as lead by example. To ensure that existing and future programming is available to disabled individuals, youth and older adults, whether they are artists, board members, staff, curators, volunteers, teachers, students or audience members we state the following beliefs:
- Access is an issue of justice with a moral imperative.
- Access is intersectional.
- Access is a design issue. Reducing the physical and attitudinal barriers by creating environments accessible to all is a fundamental principle of good artistic practice.
- Community is enriched by actively supporting and promoting the presence of disabled persons.
- Access should be integrated into all facets and activities of Vancouver Poetry House.
- Access accommodations and services should be included in the yearly budget process.
- Access has economic benefits to VPH, to the community, to its members, to the City of Vancouver, and to the greater Provincial and National economies.
- Access is related to audience development.
- Access reduces isolation and can have a significant impact on mental health. Access can reduce suicidality in arts communities.
- Arts organizations should lead by example. VPH should strive to meet or exceed local, provincial, and national legal requirements.
- Access is a dynamic work in progress. As new initiatives are developed, art forms change and expand and new technologies are introduced. As such, VPH includes accessibility planning into its yearly planning cycle.