The Jamestown Arts Center (JAC) has announced that it has received funding from Rhode Island Humanities for its upcoming film screening and panel discussion, Perspectives in Progress: Disability Advocacy 32 Years After the Ladd School.
The event will take place on Thursday, February 13, at 6:30 pm and is free and open to all.
Perspectives in Progress will feature a screening of Best Judgment: Ladd School Lessons. This documentary explores the history of the Ladd Center, Rhode Island’s state-run institution for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities from 1908 to 1993. More than just a history lesson, Best Judgment provides a powerful reflection on how attitudes and policies have evolved and raises critical questions about the future of disability rights and care.
The program will take place in JAC’s main gallery, where attendees will be surrounded by The Sun: Visionary Artists, an exhibition featuring artwork by artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities curated from three partner organizations: Out of the Box Studio & Gallery, Downtown Designs Gallery, and Sunlight Studios.
Following the screening, a panel discussion will explore the film’s themes and their connections to contemporary care practices, advocacy efforts, and creative expression within the disability community. Panelists include Joanne Eichinger, Ph.D., professor emeritus of special education at URI; Deanne Gagne, Advocates in Action RI and Founder at Bridge Building Services; Maggie Sebastian, Former Ladd Center resident featured in Best Judgement; Jim Wolpaw, Co-Director of Best Judgment.
JAC invites the community to participate in this meaningful discussion at the intersection of history, advocacy, and the arts. This event allows artists, historians, advocates, and community members to engage in a conversation about disability rights, care, and creative expression.
ABOUT THE FILM
Over 15 years in the making, Best Judgment: Ladd School Lessons offers a deep examination of Rhode Island’s Joseph H. Ladd Center. The film was created through a unique collaboration between former Ladd residents, individuals with disabilities, local musicians, and veteran media professionals. By weaving together historical analysis, firsthand accounts, and contemporary perspectives, the documentary challenges audiences to reflect on past injustices and consider how we can work toward a more inclusive future.
This event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit jamestownartcenter.org/events/ladd-school
