Creating Accessible Events and Content

Tips for Accessible Meetings and Events

Below are some tips for creating accessible events as well as examples of possible accommodations that you can offer to make your event as accessible as possible to people with disabilities.

Tips for accessible events

Ask if participants need accommodations when you send out your invitations or registration form. Have a contact person for accommodation requests
Review your venue/location prior to your event and make sure it has necessary accessibility features (acoustics, wheelchair and mobility accessibility, proper technology, etc.)
Give yourself enough time to secure any requested accommodations (the amount of time will depend on the request, but at least 2 weeks is a helpful starting point)
Ensure all videos and presentations are recorded and captioned. If possible, have an ASL translator(s) at your event even if it was not a requested accommodation. It may be beneficial for participants who are viewing a future recording of the presentation or event
Have masks on hand for in person events and encourage mask wearing if participants are able to in order to protect immunocompromised participants
Keep physical distancing in mind when planning your event. Spacing out tables, chairs, blocking off certain areas, and modifying room lay outs, may all help stop the spread of COVID-19

Tips for Creating Accessible Content

Resources from End Abuse of People with Disabilities

Accessible Font - In this video, we discuss font style, size, and line spacing, and why these accessibility elements matter for survivors. We share some examples of accessible and inaccessible fonts. Finally, we explain the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAGs) for font style and size.

Plain Language - In this video, we discuss plain language and why it matters for survivors with disabilities. We explain how we can communicate using plain language, and share some examples of plain language. Finally, we demonstrate how to use tools to determine if a written document is using plain language.

Augmented Language - In this video, we define Augmented Language. We explain simple language and augmented language, and why these communication methods matter for accessibility. Finally, we demonstrate how to use augmented language and images to communicate with survivors.

Color Contrast - In this video, we describe color contrast, and why it matters for disability access. We explain the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAGs) for using color and for color contrast. Finally, we demonstrate tools for determining color contrast ratios.

Alternative Text - In this video, we discuss Alternative Text: what it is, and why it matters for survivors with disabilities. We demonstrate how to add alternative text to images and other visual elements to make web-based and electronic materials accessible for survivors with disabilities.

Organizing Information: Reading Order - In this video, we explain the importance of organizing information accessibly in web-based and electronic materials for survivors with disabilities. We define reading order, and explain why it matters for accessibility. Finally, we demonstrate how to use Microsoft Office to create accessible reading order.

Designing Accessible Resources Tip Sheet Series

The Designing Accessible Resources Tip Sheet Series for people with disabilities and Deaf people was created to help organizations plan print and digital resources that are accessible to people with disabilities and Deaf individuals. The series contains tip sheets on key aspects of materials and resources creation from beginning to end. Each tip sheet provides user-friendly information on creating accessible print materials, websites, webinars, and e-docs.