Culture of Equality: Integration of Persons with Disabilities into the Work of Cultural Institutions

The identity of people with disabilities is largely determined by society’s attitude towards them. The way society talks about them, perceives their needs and allows them access to education, culture, healthcare and employment, defines their further position and equality in the community. Therefore, those who work in the field of culture have a great responsibility in relation to the position of persons with disabilities, to perceive them not only as objects, but as subjects in cultural activity – as creators, consumers or employees. The legal framework, international and national, has determined the prohibition of discrimination against persons with disabilities, equal opportunities for them and the enjoyment of all the rights of persons without disabilities. It provides a good basis for cultural institutions in the integration of persons with disabilities. Тhrough culture, every individual can realise themselves professionally, receive an education, enjoy leisure time, and create and exhibit works. The paper will present Culture of Equality research conducted on a sample of 159 cultural institutions in Serbia at the national, regional and local levels, and providing quality data on the position of people with disabilities in the cultural community and the opportunities for their integration. Its findings point to potential use of action targeted at integrating and employing people with disabilities into the operations of cultural institutions