From physical barriers to relational ones: the role of communication and training for full and conscious cultural accessibility
The article addresses the theme of accessibility to cultural places as a fundamental right of people with disabilities, also enshrined by the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It highlights the shift from a person-centered view to an environmental perspective, in line with the ICF 2001, which assigns a decisive role to the context. Alongside architectural and sensory barriers, the text explores relational barriers, often invisible but strongly impactful. Problematic attitudes of cultural operators, such as pity, infantilization, and paternalism, are analyzed, emphasizing the need to overcome them. Finally, training on communication and relational skills is proposed as a key lever to build truly inclusive and participatory contexts.
