Belle chats with Sam Petersen, about the making of disability led short film Human

·12 min·1 clip

Sam Peterson's film 'Human' explores the loneliness and 'slow violence' experienced by disabled people in an individualistic society.

Belle hosts Sam Peterson on Only Human Radio to discuss the making of the short film 'Human'. Sam introduces themselves as a queer, high support needs, slow power wheelchair user and dyslexic AAC user. They describe 'Human' as a work of fiction that addresses the loneliness and neglect experienced by disabled people, framing it as 'slow violence' in an individualistic society. Sam shares their inspiration from 80s and 90s sci-fi films like 'Alien' and 'The Fifth Element', but notes the lack of disability-led films about ableism's true violence. They explain the practical challenges of filmmaking, such as needing shorter shoot days due to fatigue and the high costs of accessibility, which disabled artists shouldn't have to absorb. Sam mentions creating a safety document with accessibility non-negotiables to protect themselves from ableism on set. The conversation shifts to an upcoming fundraiser for the film on February 28th at Balambalam Place in Brunswick, Naarm. The event will feature live music from artists like Sienna Thornton and June Jones, raffles, merch sales, and an auction. It is designed to be fully power wheelchair accessible, with Auslan interpreters, strobe-free lighting, and COVID-19 safety measures like N95 masks. Sam discusses the importance of planning accessible events, acknowledging that perfection isn't possible but effort is key. They admit not consulting external resources for accessibility planning, relying on personal experience instead. Belle asks how people can support the fundraiser, and Sam directs listeners to the Kumenitics website, Chuffed donation page, and their Instagram for links. The episode concludes with Belle thanking Sam and expressing excitement for the film's completion.

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