“In response to the increased need for mental health awareness in an ongoing COVID[-19] world, this event will focus on mental wellness and the arts,” said Ally Haynes-Hablen, managing director of the Charles W. Eisemann Center, during a Jan. 9 City Council meeting.
Activities will be held throughout the week at several city facilities, including the Eisemann Center, the Richardson Public Library, The University of Texas at Dallas and Richardson ISD. The event will include panel discussions for first responders and symposiums with local experts on Feb. 8 as well as two sensory-inclusive performances by Kevin Spencer, a magician and educator, on Feb. 11.
In addition, an arts exhibition will be held Feb. 28-March 26 at the Forrest and Virginia Green Mezzanine Gallery as part of the event.
Access+Inclusion 23 is the continuation of a 2021 event called Inclusion is Magical, which was designed to “bring attention to the capabilities and opportunities of individuals on the autism spectrum,” Richardson City Manager Don Magner said.
This event was created to raise awareness and open a dialogue about mental health and wellness, continuing to encourage the involvement of organizations and departments within the community, according to city officials.
City officials said they encourage students, educators, corporations and members of the community to join the conversation in a Mental Wellness Symposium at the Eisemann Center on Feb. 8 starting at 8:30 a.m. with panels focusing on public safety, mental wellness and education, health care, and the arts.
For more information on the event, visit www.eisemanncenter.com/Access-Inclusion-23.
Tickets for the symposiums and performances are available now and may be purchased in person or online at www.eisemanncenter.com.
