Radio 1 DJ Jameela Jamil has created a members’ club that puts on accessible gigs specifically for people living with disabilities. Why Not People? creates and hosts events such as live music gigs featuring chart-topping acts, catering specifically for people with physical, sensory and learning impairments.
Young Disabled People
Why Not People? aims to give young disabled people the opportunity to experience live music in a way that doesn’t put them at a disadvantage. Typically disabled people are confined to designated areas in live music venues which tend to be far away from the stage and often no provision is made to cater for those with sensory or learning impairments.
New Technologies
The first series of gigs will be played by artists including Coldplay, Ed Sheeran and Mark Ronson. As well as being able to get up close to the action, attendees will have access to new technologies such as the SubPac which reinvents the way we experience music by transferring low audio frequencies onto the body.
Promote Inclusion
Why Not People? is currently fundraising through IndieGoGo to help get the initiative off the ground and launch its members’ section of their website. In order to become a member of the club and get access to these gigs, people with disabilities will need to provide some basic medical information in an application. But, in an effort to promote inclusion, members can purchase up to three additional tickets for friends and family. The club also gives members access to a social community where they can receive exclusive offers and advice.
Representative of Society
Jamil launched the club after becoming frustrated at the lack of effort made to make these experiences inclusive for everyone. She said:
“What I see is not representative of society. It’s embarrassing that we live in a world where that is still the case. And that is what drives Why Not People? — to change that, impact people’s lives and ultimately break down barriers in the community.”
You can find out more and contribute by visiting the Why Not People? IndieGoGo page at this link.
