When we talk about culture, we often think of museums, exhibitions, events, books or shows. But culture isn’t just “something to look at or listen to”: it’s mainly a way of connecting. It’s dialogue, exchange, questions and answers. And this is exactly where inclusivity comes in.
Being inclusive doesn’t simply mean “letting everyone in”, but creating spaces and ways of communicating where each person can feel welcomed and represented. It’s the difference between watching a story that has nothing to do with us, and taking part in a narrative where we can actually see ourselves.
Why does it matter so much?
We live in a society full of differences: languages, cultures, ages, abilities, perspectives. If cultural mediation doesn’t take this variety into account, it risks becoming something elitist, speaking only to fews.
Inclusivity, on the other hand, makes culture more alive and more real. It’s not an optional extra or a gesture of kindness: it’s a core value!
When we feel part of something, we take part more actively, bring fresh ideas and allow ourselves to be inspired. Inclusive culture becomes fertile ground for creativity, collaboration and innovation. It’s not just about listening, but also about handing over the stage to other interpretations and ways of seeing the world, often subjective ones. It’s about trust, not only in how we tell stories, but also in how we let others tell theirs.
Think of a museum that tells a story through many different voices, or of a workshop where you’re not just a spectator but actually help shape the path. That’s a way more engaging experience, right?
So how do we actually make inclusivity happen?
Okay, but inclusivity can’t just be a nice word. It needs to become a daily practice. Some concrete steps are:
- Really listen: don’t assume what people want or need. Ask, observe, learn.
- Keep it clear: use simple, creative and visual language. It’s not “dumbing down”, it’s making the message clear and accessible.
- Welcome different stories: don’t just tell the “official version”, but give space to memories, experiences and perspectives that are usually left out.
- Get people involved: turn the audience into active players. Workshops, games, interactive activities. Participation is key.
- Keep learning: the world changes fast, and communicators need fresh tools to respond to different needs.
A concrete example: Mediate Your Future
In Mediate Your Future, inclusivity wasn’t just a discussion point, it was a hands-on approach. In the workshops, young people weren’t just a passive audience: they were the main protagonists.
The result? More energy, more engagement and, above all, the feeling of being at the centre. This project shows that inclusivity isn’t only about being open, it’s also about power: giving a voice to those who are usually unheard is a genuine act of empowerment.
Looking ahead
Inclusivity in cultural communication isn’t a final goal, it’s an ongoing journey. There’s no fixed formula: every context requires sensitivity, creativity and the courage to rethink ourselves.
The challenge is big, but also beautiful: to transform museums, libraries, theatres, festivals and learning spaces into places where everyone can feel at home.
Because in the end, culture isn’t truly culture unless it belongs to everyone. And the cultural mediation of the future won’t be a monologue, but a chorus of different voices building a shared story together.