COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina State Museum (SCSM) and the South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (DDSN) have collaborated on a project spearheaded by the museum to increase awareness and inclusion for those who live with disabilities, a common goal shared by the two state agencies.
The State Museum recently conducted a photoshoot featuring an individual who requires a wheelchair, and an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter to better represent its guests and the programming the museum offers. The SCSM will soon have another photoshoot that will include more individuals with disabilities. Photos from these events will be used for the museum’s new website and other SCSM platforms.
This effort is an extension of the various opportunities and accommodations the SCSM provides for those with disabilities. DDSN has participated in some of these opportunities at the SCSM, such as the museum’s Accessibility Morning events, which provides free access for families of young children, teenagers, and adults who would benefit from a quieter, sensory-friendly and disability-adapted experience at the museum.
“Making the museum more equitable starts with the physical building and goes beyond to include programming, communication and representation,” said Amy Bartow-Melia, the South Carolina State Museum’s Executive Director. “We are working to ensure that all communities feel welcome within our space.”
While working to get models for the photoshoots, staff with the museum asked DDSN if the agency knew individuals who would be willing to participate. Gene Baughman, the facility administrator at DDSN’s Midlands Center, immediately thought of Harriett Gallman, a resident of the center who requires a wheelchair. Baughman identified Gallman because of her vibrant personality and positive attitude.
“Harriett is a remarkable woman,” Baughman said. “She’s made so many friends at Midlands Center, and our entire staff loves working with her. She is a prime example of why individuals with disabilities deserve the same opportunities as everyone else, and we are beyond grateful to the South Carolina State Museum for providing her with this wonderful opportunity.”
The photographs will be featured on the State Museum's new website, which also includes information on current available accessibility resources and events at the museum.
The SCSM is the state’s largest and most comprehensive museum. Its mission is to provide educational environments that entertain, inspire imagination and creativity, and enrich the lives of visitors. DDSN is the state agency that plans, develops, coordinates and funds services for residents with various severe, lifelong disabilities. Populations served include individuals with traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries, autism spectrum disorder, and intellectual disabilities. For more information on SCSM, click here. For more on DDSN, click here.
