Heard Museum adds digital resource, quiet spaces for visitors with disabilities

The Heard Museum in downtown Phoenix announced new accessibility resources for visitors.

The Heard Museum is partnering with PAL Experiences to launch a “know before you go” digital resource that will explain what to expect when visiting the museum for people with disabilities.

Lucia Leigh Laughlin, the museum's director of engagement and learning programs, said the launch will also include onsite changes to improve accessibility.

"We want people to feel welcome here. And I think having these resources, especially in advance of the visit, knowing that the Heard Museum, you know, is welcoming of visitors with all, you, know, all neurodivergence and different needs, knowing that that's a space that we are expecting them to be here and want them to here," Laughlin said.

Laughlin said the museum will also offer designated quiet spaces for those with sensory disabilities.

"We're trying to just make it where people will be encouraged to come to the Herd Museum. But then when they get there, we'll be comfortable and we'll have things available to them that they need to enjoy. Because it's so much fun to make art, to do all of these activities together," Laughlin said.

PAL founder Melanie Isaacs said she hopes more public spaces in Phoenix will follow suit.

“I think Phoenix has a beautiful commitment to inclusion. Kind of within its being as a city. I love just thinking of each program as bringing more of our community together," Isaacs said.

Isaacs said PAL’s goal is to make every place accessible for all families, and that the nonprofit is excited to continue working with the Heard Museum.