Events celebrate and support a sense of community. This checklist will help you make your event inclusive and accessible for one and all - whether they are a participant, a volunteer or working staff. Consider each of these for your event:
Parking & Route
- Parking and Transportation. Identify and clearly mark the accessible parking (must be on the closest pathway from parking to the entrance) and identify accessible public transportation routes.
- Pathway. Identify the accessible pathway from the parking/public transportation to the event entrance. Look for curb cuts, appropriate slopes, and temporary barriers.
- Entrance. Identify and clearly mark the accessible entrance. Ensure appropriate door pull force (typically 5 pounds) and closing speed or the existence of an automatic door. If unsure, consider propping the door open.
Tip: Provide a place for accommodation requests on your RSVP to show people of all abilities they are welcome and you will accommodate them.
Facilities
- Restrooms. Identify and clearly mark the accessible restrooms. An accessible restroom must consist of an entry door of at least 32 inches and be equipped with at least one large accessible stall.
- Seating. Designate an accessible seating area (at least 2% of the total seating available). If it is a standing room only, consider designating a seating area for those with mobility disabilities.
- Temperature. If your event is outside, be aware of temperature fluctuations. Some people are unable to control their body temperature, so consider cooling or warming tents and resources.
- Sign Language Interpreter. Designate a section for Deaf/hard of hearing participants in the line of sight of the interpreter or with access to CART. Plan lighting so that the interpreter remains well-lit throughout the event.
- Consider On-Line Access. Consider virtual or hybrid meetings or events to increase accessibility. Check out our guide.
- Service Animals. Ensure people with disabilities can bring their service animals to allow them to participate.
Communication
- ADA Liaison. Designate an ADA Liaison for your event (could be your agency’s liaison) and ensure your contact information is available in any event communications so attendees can reach out for any questions, concerns, or accommodations. Remind that liaison that the Division of Disability Rights can provide consultation or support, as needed.
- Effective Communication. Ensure that all communications about your event are done in an accessible way – whether through social media, email blasts, print media, radio, or television. Consider screen readers, ASL interpreters, alt text, and plain language.
- Accessibility Statement. All publicity materials should include the following accessibility statement: It is your right to access oral or written language assistance, sign language interpretation, real-time captioning via CART, or disability-related accommodations. To request any of these services at no cost to you, please contact (contact agency) with 3 business days’ notice.
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