OUR STORY
ABOUT US
Founded in 2007 at the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, ReelAbilities has grown from a single New York-based disability film festival into a leading independent nonprofit and the premiere global exhibitor of disability-focused cinema. Through groundbreaking award-winning films and innovative programming, we challenge stereotypes, celebrate authentic disability representation in movies, and expand opportunities for disabled creators worldwide.
What began as a single festival has evolved into a dynamic movement, spanning multiple initiatives, including our flagship film festival in NY, affiliate festivals across North America, Industry Summit, Reel Education, ReelAbilities at the Workplace, and ReelAbilities Stream-an accessible streaming platform for disability film. In 2024, we took a significant step forward by becoming an independent nonprofit, expanding our reach and impact even further.
CORE VALUES
* High Cinematic Value: We celebrate inclusive cinematic work that innovates across narratives, genres and styles
* Meaningful Engagement: We foster nuanced conversations that create space for community dialogue, meaningful discussions, and new discoveries.
* Wholistic Approach to Disability: We showcase fresh perspectives that embrace the entirety of who people are – and all that a person can become.
* Access Beyond Buzzwords: We ensure our programs are accessible financially, geographically, and virtually
* Cultivating Community: We build partnerships that establish and build real connections within and across communities
OUR MISSION
ReelAbilities is committed to reframing disability through the power of film. We amplify disability storytelling, increase opportunities for disabled creators, and foster inclusive spaces where diverse experiences are valued and celebrated. By increasing authentic representation both on-screen and behind the camera, we break down barriers, and drive meaningful change, both on and off the screen.
CHANGING PERCEPTIONS
Through film, we aim to create a more just, inclusive, and accessible society, both on and off screen. ReelAbilities is renowned for its wide-ranging international film selection, riveting conversations, professional workshops and arts events, as well as a leader in setting the highest standards of accessibility and inclusion in film presentation.
We provide a rare opportunity to put the spotlight on disabled individuals as protagonists, role models, artists and producers, all on the big screen and creating a space for the entire community to come together, celebrating our shared human experience.
EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES
With groundbreaking accessibility and a multitude of year-round engagement opportunities, ReelAbilities provides a platform for disabled filmmakers, actors, and storytellers, alongside the disablity community at large, amplifying voices that are often overlooked. We foster community, celebrate achievements, and promote inclusion, ensuring people with disabilities see themselves represented accurately and meaningfully in media and arts.
TRANSFORMING THE FILM INDUSTRY
ReelAbilities is at the forefront of transforming the film industry by advocating for greater accessibility, authentic representation, and equitable opportunities for people with disabilities.
The festival challenges outdated industry norms by supporting disabled filmmakers, highlighting inclusive storytelling, and pushing for greater accessibility in all aspects of film production and exhibition. Through industry events, partnerships, and networking opportunities, ReelAbilities fosters meaningful dialogue between creators, studios, and decision-makers, ensuring that disability representation goes beyond tokenism and becomes an integral part of mainstream media.
By amplifying the voices of disabled artists and advocating for systemic change, ReelAbilities is helping to shape a more diverse, inclusive, and representative film industry that reflects the full spectrum of human experience.
GOING FORWARD
Now an independent nonprofit, we're expanding our reach and broadening our impact. Through innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and unparalleled commitment to accessibility, we're building a future where disability representation expands imagination and opportunity in authentic, nuanced, and celebrated ways.
CLICK TO VIEW REELABILITIES 2025-2027 STRATEGIC PLAN
Join Us
Whether you're a filmmaker, industry professional, educator, exhibitor or someone else invested in the power of inclusive storytelling, there's a place for you in the ReelAbilities community. Together, we're reframing disability and reshaping cultural narratives to create a more representative world.