The Salon proud in Graz: a model for inclusive leisure activities

The Salon proud in Graz: a model for inclusive leisure activities

As part of the Austrian inclusion prices that were awarded on Tuesday, the title went to Graz in the “Leisure and Culture” category. The "Salon Stolz", an innovative project, was recognized for its exemplary barrier -free concept. The celebrations culminated when Alexandra Sommer, a member of the project team, announced the news: "We are extremely happy about it, especially because it brings out visibility."

The Salon proudly, which opened its doors in July 2023, has committed itself to making art and culture accessible to everyone and was recognized for his well thought -out implementation of the inclusion idea. For over three years, a creative team of around ten people worked on the development of the concept, which is inspired by the Graz composer Robert Stolz.

barriers overcome

The inclusion price was awarded to the salon for the barrier -free design of the interiors and the exhibition objects. "From the beginning we thought across all borders," explains Sommer. The goal was to create a museum that can be experienced for all people - regardless of impairments. For this purpose, numerous confidence, i.e. people with disabilities, were also integrated into the planning and implementation processes.

The challenge of developing a barrier -free concept was by no means trivial. Sommer explains that when taking into account the different needs of people with disabilities, there is often a risk that solutions for a group disadvantage other groups. So the process was by no means "scheme f". "We developed everything ourselves and took every step ourselves," continued Sommer, and emphasizes the pride in the result.

a partial success

The inclusion days were a success and the commitment goes beyond the award ceremony. The winning projects were awarded in a total of eight categories and the selection was never easier. For the first time, over 130 projects submitted their concepts, which were rated by a nine -member jury, including media representatives and experts such as the handicapped lawyer Christine Steger. Criteria such as social participation, progress and innovation played a crucial role.

A special highlight of the salon is a gaming table where both people with different disabilities and without restrictions can play together. This concept of participation clearly shows the philosophy of the salon: access to art and culture should be guaranteed for all people alike, a philosophy that is more important than ever today. For detailed information about the background and philosophy of the salon proud, See the report on www.meinbezirk.at .

This award for the Salon Stolz is not only one step forward for the team, but also a sign of the growing movement towards more inclusion in culture and leisure activities in Graz and beyond.