To become certified sensory inclusive
KultureCity — the nation’s leading nonprofit on sensory accessibility and acceptance for those with invisible disabilities — has partnered with GRAMMY Museum® Mississippi to make all exhibits and programs to be sensory inclusive. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests and fans with a sensory issue who visit the Mississippi Museum.
“We are so grateful to our partner, KultureCity, for helping us make the experience we offer here at GRAMMY Museum Mississippi accessible for even more guests,” said Emily Havens, Executive Director of GRAMMY Museum Mississippi. “We’d also like to thank our sponsors, the Gertrude Ford Foundation and Maddox Foundation, for their contributions to this incredibly special and impactful project. We look forward to continuing to make our Museum accessible for all.”
As part of the certification process, GRAMMY Museum Mississippi staff were trained by leading medical professionals on how to recognize those guests and fans with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. Sensory bags equipped with noise canceling headphones (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads will also be available to all Museum guests who may feel overwhelmed by the environment.
Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD, and other similar conditions (one in six individuals). One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to over stimulation and noise, which can be a large part of the experience at a museum. With its new certification, GRAMMY Museum Mississippi is now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible.
Prior to attending the Museum, families can download the free KultureCity App where they can view what sensory features are available and where they can access them. Also, on the App is the Social Story which will provide a preview of what to expect while visiting GRAMMY Museum Mississippi.
“Our communities are what shapes our lives and to know that GRAMMY Museum Mississippi is willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community is amazing. We’re honored to partner with the Mississippi Museum to provide a truly inclusive experience for all fans and guests,” said Uma Srivastava, Executive Director, KultureCity.