This Bay Area County Celebrates Disability Pride With New Exhibits

MARIN COUNTY, CA — To honor the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the County of Marin is putting on three exhibits in July that showcase history, identity and advocacy, to celebrate the progress made in the past 35 years.

These exhibits collectively recognize the advancements made since the ADA's enactment, while also providing an opportunity to contemplate, envision, and advocate for complete inclusion.

Disability History Exhibit – Civic Center Exhibit

Tracing 3,000 years of seldom-told history, the Disability History Exhibit is a digital collage created by Advocating Change Together. This illustrated timeline explores how societal attitudes toward people with disabilities have evolved across cultures and centuries.

With the help of Portland Community College Disability Services, in partnership with the Oregon Association of Higher Education and the Disability Multimedia Program, captioned videos feature the voices of PCC students, bringing their stories to life through engaging digital storytelling.

Sound Advice Exhibit – Marin County Free Library 10-Branch Exhibit

Simultaneously, the Marin County Free Library will present "Sound Advice," a 10-branch exhibit. This project, curated and photographed by artist and advocate Nancy Rubin, highlights the lived experiences of individuals with hearing loss, centering on the voices and insights of participants aged 6 to 95.

“I am one of over 50 million Americans who have difficulty hearing, which is a loss that is usually an invisible disability,” Rubin said. “This project endeavors to make the hearing public more aware of the challenges of those of us with hearing loss.”

To encourage exploration and reflection throughout the library system, each participating branch will host a portion of the exhibit. Discover a branch by visiting the MCFL website.

Making Waves – Marin Cultural Association

Experience the vibrant creativity and unique perspectives of artists from Cedars and Marin Ventures at this compelling exhibit, currently on view at the Marin Cultural Association galleries. Both Marin organizations are dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities through creative expression and personal growth.

Cedars Fine Art Studios provides a professional, mentorship-based workspace where artists can develop their skills and careers, exploring diverse media from pencil sketches and abstract paintings to jewelry and sculpture.

Founded in 1990 by parents seeking meaningful opportunities for their adult children with developmental disabilities, Marin Ventures offers a safe and inclusive environment. The organization fosters independence, community integration, and lifelong learning through programs encompassing arts, communication, fitness, and employment training.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibit and discover the powerful works on display.