Testimonials

• Question: Have you experienced difficulties with security at venues? Are there typically security measures in place to accommodate? 

  • Jonna Crocker: I have a gastric stimulator, which is similar to a heart pacemaker. Because of this, I am not able to go through the normal security scanners. While sometimes it is difficult to get the attention of the security personnel, I normally do not have an issue once I talk to them. I notify them that I have a medical device and ask to be patted down or scanned with the wand. They normally move the gate to allow me through and pat me down separately. Typically, they are very kind and understanding. 

• • Question: Have you ever had trouble purchasing accessible tickets?

    • Jonna Crocker: Yes, I have been interested in shows before where the venue does not advertise the purchase of accessible tickets. Instead, I would have had to purchase a standard ticket and then inquire at the box office upon arrival about accessible seats. But, obviously that is a risk because I don't know how many accessible seats there are. So I run the risk of having purchased a ticket for a seat I wouldn't be able to physically get to. I have also looked into purchasing an accessible seat at venues that offer companion seats, since I don't use a wheelchair the companion seating would be sufficient for my needs. However, they don't allow you to purchase a companion seat unless you purchase an accessible seat as well. So, once all the accessible seats are filled, you can no longer acquire a companion seat, even if there are still some available. So, it is frustrating when I'm searching for tickets and there is no guarantee that I will be able to purchase a seat that I will be able to physically get to. 

• Question: Is Cornell able to accommodate your needs during the Slope Day concert?

  • JC: It does appear that Cornell is able to accommodate my needs for the Slope Day concert. I cannot walk long distances, so I will need to drive to Slope Day and park close to the event. With an accessible parking permit, it seems like there will be accessible parking spaces at the top of the slope. The only thing is that it would be hard for me to walk back up the slope if I went down, so I do not believe I will be able to get close to the stage. 

• Question: What, if anything, could they do to improve accessibility at this event? 

  • JC: Maybe they could have a check-in option at the bottom of the slope solely for accessible parking permits so those people who have mobility issues can be closer to the stage versus stuck at the top?

• Question: What does your foundation do to accommodate their larger scale events? 

  • JC: My foundation does a few things to accommodate larger-scale events. The first thing is that many teens in the organization have a disorder that makes them unable to tolerate heat. With several of our events happening over the summer, we always strive to have access to an indoor room that has air conditioning for people to take breaks and relax. It can also be overstimulating with loud noises, so this is helpful for those who need a break from the chaos. We also always pick locations that are wheelchair accessible and don’t require long distances for walking. We are always conscious of kiddos who might not be able to eat, and provide non-food toys and treats for them. 

• Question: What advice would you give to other organizations who may be hosting smaller scale live events regarding accessibility? \

  • JC: Try to think about different types of accommodations! Consider reaching out to participants in advance to understand what accessibility concerns there might be and how you can assist.