The Media Access Awards, which recognize authentic disability representation in film and television, have been renamed the Easterseals Disability Arts & Culture Awards (the Darcys). The initiative is led by Easterseals Disability Services in partnership with industry leaders, with Film Independent serving as co‑producer.
Founded in 1979 by Norman Lear, the awards now adopt a contemporary identity, expanded mission, and broader cultural reach under the Darcys brand.
Easterseals has assembled a Disability Advisory Committee of disabled industry professionals to guide the rebrand. Co‑chairs Emily Ladau and Nicole Lynn Evans lead the committee, which includes Jamie Brewer, Christine Bruno, Lawrence Carter‑Long, Ashley Eakin, Danny J. Gomez, CJ Jones, Danny Kurtzman, Lachi, Jim LeBrecht, Sue Ann Pien, and Lolo Spencer.
In a statement, Ladau and Evans said, “Inclusion must be a movement, not a moment. The inaugural DARCYS will be a joyful celebration of the disability community’s contributions to the media landscape and a bold call to action for a true disability representation revolution.”
Eligibility criteria require that disability inclusion be substantive, sustained, and integral to the work. Submissions must also meet accessibility standards, including captioning and audio description.
The Darcys will honor filmmaking across categories such as Best Feature, Best Documentary, Best Performance in a Feature, Best Scripted Series, Best Unscripted Series, Best Performer in a Series, and Best Social Creator. Additional honors include Achievement in Casting Ensemble, the Legacy Award, and the Christopher Reeve Emerging Talent Award.
Nominees will be selected by industry committees composed of filmmakers, critics, past Media Access Awards honorees, and representatives from guilds and nonprofit organizations.
The inaugural ceremony is scheduled for October 10 at the Historic Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, bringing together entertainment, advocacy, and media leaders to celebrate the year’s most impactful work.
Submissions open on June 16 and close on July 14.
The Darcys will be streamed worldwide via YouTube and PBS SoCal, with rebroadcasts on local PBS stations nationwide. For details, visit socal.easterseals.com/darcyawards.