The presentation of a Guide aimed at using art as an innovative methodology to combat social exclusion, stigma, discrimination, and social prejudice against people with disabilities, the result of the ATITUDE project developed by GetArt, took place in Angra do Heroísmo.

Daniela Silveira, the author of the Guide, began by praising the role of culture in social transformation, saying that “Art is a powerful tool for change. It gives a voice to those who are often silenced, creates spaces of expression for those who face barriers and fosters a sense of community and belonging”, recognizing that ”social inclusion through art is no small challenge. It requires dedication, strategy and, above all, investment. Culture cannot be seen as a luxury or an add-on.”

The author of the Guide, Daniela Silveira, warned of the need for “more funding so that projects like this can grow, reach more people, and generate a real and lasting impact.” She mentioned that she knew this was not an easy path but ended by saying, “Together, with ATITUDE, we are changing paradigms and building a future where art is a right, not a privilege. A future where every person, regardless of origin or condition, can find a path to inclusion and dignity in culture. We are not machines, we are people.”

For his part, Rodrigo Ramos gave his testimony, saying that the project “is good, it makes me feel special, it affects the person, but it’s very good. The Attitude project has done a lot of good. I really enjoyed the trip to Pico, the performance and the recognition of more than 300 people.”

Ingrid Bettencourt, director of ACM, praised the ATITUDE project and the importance of promoting projects like this, not only for the target audience, working on their individuality and differences as a mechanism to bring them together, but also for society as a whole, as this is an opportunity for the community to realize the importance and contribution of people with disabilities.

He also said that the empowerment achieved for these people should be an ongoing effort, with funding from government bodies so that educational and social institutions can implement projects like this. This guide deconstructs stigmas and helps all institutions promote the performing arts as a tool for social inclusion.

The Guide to Good Practices in Inclusion through Art is now available and will be distributed to public schools and private charities.

From Press Release

Translated to English as a community outreach program from the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL) as part of Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno, PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.