Categories
The DARCYS will celebrate excellence across a wide range of categories, including Best Feature, Best Documentary, Best Performance in a Feature, Best Scripted Series, Best Unscripted Series, Best Performer in a Series, and Best Social Creator. The awards will also include Achievement in Casting Ensemble, the Legacy Award, and the Christopher Reeve Emerging Talent Award.
Nominations
The DARCYS will be introducing a competitive nominations process. Nominees will be determined by industry committees composed of filmmakers, critics, past Media Access Awards honorees, and industry guild and nonprofit organization representatives. The DARCYS are committed to meaningful representation within this process, with a majority of committee members being individuals with disabilities.
Nominees will be announced in August 2026.
Ceremony
The inaugural Disability Arts & Culture Awards ceremony will take place Saturday, October 10 at The Historic Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, featuring leaders from across entertainment, advocacy, and media for an evening celebrating the most impactful work of the year.
Disability Advisory Committee
Assembled to represent the disabled individuals who work in the industry, the Disability Advisory Committee has been integral to the evolution of The Easterseals Disability Arts & Culture Awards. This talented group of disabled individuals will continue to provide ongoing guidance to the program.
Co-chairs: Emily Ladau and Nicole Lynn Evans
Members: 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.
