Creating accessible events
Helpful tips for creating accessible events
Remember, just because someone with a disability may not have attended your event in the past, doesn’t mean they didn’t want to take part or it wasn’t interesting to them, it may mean it wasn’t accessible.
A Universally Designed event is one in which someone with disability can spontaneously take advantage of the same things their non-disabled peers do. With some careful thought and planning, many of those issues can be alleviated ahead of time.
Some things to think about:
- Is the space I’ve chosen accessible? Can people with various needs access it? Does it have space for wheelchairs, walkers, mobility scooters, service dogs, or other medical equipment to sit with their friends? Does it have seating that could have direct line of sight to captioning services or ASL interpreters? Is there a place for low vision attendees to have clear access to any visual aids?
- Is there a clear statement on promotional materials, letting attendees know how to request disability accommodations?
- Is there an easily accessible route to the location? How close is parking?
- Will I have a variety of foods available to accommodate various dietary needs?
- Have I captioned any videos or other visual media to be used?
- Have I planned for captioning services or ASL interpreters if there are speakers?
- Are there accessible facilities for toileting and other needs available within a reasonable distance?
Source: Western Washington University’s Disability Access Center