At the core of the Walker’s mission is a deep commitment to creating a welcoming environment for individuals from all cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. Recently, the museum has taken steps to expand access to family programming with the intention of connecting with the diverse array of communities in the Twin Cities and beyond.
In summer 2017, Free First Saturday increased bilingual programming for kids and families with educators available to translate instructions and offer assistance in Hmong and Spanish. The Walker’s Visitor Services team also helps to ensure an open experience for our visitors speaking languages other than English. Further, as part of the summerlong celebration in the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, Free First Saturday featured performers from a variety of cultural traditions, including Ambassadors of Culture (Dalmar Yare and Holly Muñoz), a group inspired by Somali music, reggae, and indie rock.
These steps would not have been possible without the generous support of Medtronic and the Medtronic Foundation. As a global leader of medical technology and solutions, they provided the Walker with the resources to bring these programs to our patrons. “The Medtronic Foundation is dedicated to supporting healthy communities worldwide,” says Dr. Jacob A. Gayle, Medtronic Foundation’s president. “We are happy to support the Walker’s efforts to remove barriers and connect communities through art experiences as they undergird this work in the Twin Cities.”
The Walker’s focus on access continues in spring 2018, in part through a new initiative supported by the Minnesota State Arts Board called Sensory Friendly Sunday. This free program provides individuals with sensory sensitivities and their families the opportunity to engage with the arts in an environment that is tailored to their needs. On Sensory Friendly Sunday, audiences can explore the Walker’s galleries before the museum opens and participate in hands-on art-making. The Minnesota State Arts Board’s support of the program will empower individuals with sensory sensitivities of all ages to feel welcomed and engaged during their visit to the Walker.
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