All George Mason University entities are responsible for ensuring that programs, services, and activities are accessible. To uphold the letter and spirit of the law it is important that all students, employees, and community members have equal access to all events and programming on campus.
Provide participants with information on where to request an accommodation prior to the event. When organizing a university event, always include an accommodation statement in the marketing materials (i.e., registration forms, social media, flyers). Provide participants with information on where to request an accommodation prior to the event. Below is recommended language for an accommodation statement:
We strive to host inclusive and accessible events that enable all individuals to engage fully. Please be aware that 1-week notice is requested as some accommodations may require time for the University to arrange. If you have a disability and require accommodations to fully participate in this activity, please contact, (insert name and contact information).
If you require an accommodation to participate in this event, please contact, (insert name and contact information). Please be aware that a 1-week notice is requested as some accommodations may require time for the University to arrange.
George Mason University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations in its services, programs, and activities. Accommodation requests related to a disability should be made by contacting, (insert name and contact information) at least 1-week prior to the event.
When receiving a request for an accommodation, focus on the request and not the disability. Determine if you can implement the accommodation (i.e., chair placement, physical access, food allergy). Should you need assistance with the implementation or the request (i.e., closed captioned videos, sign language interpreter, Braille, Communication Access in Real Time), contact Disability Services or the ADA Coordinator for the necessary next steps. Should you receive an accommodation request it is important to engage with the person right away, as it can take time to plan for some accommodations.
If a sign language interpreter is requested, complete the Interpreting Services Request form and for all other requests complete the Event Accommodations Request Form.
Creating accessible websites, registration forms, and event materials (i.e., closed captioned videos) is critical to ensuring the everyone will have equal access to the event.
Mason refers to the accessibility standards specified in *Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and *WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) 2.0, appropriately tailored to the specific circumstances of the University. The WCAG 2.0 Standards are set by the *World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). The mission of W3C is to lead the web to its full potential which includes accessibility.
For resources and support on technology accessibility, please utilize the resources from the office of Assistive Technology Initiative.
Know where and how to direct an individual to the designated ADA parking spots.
Have clear signage for the route of travel to the event. If possible, have one route that is accessible for all.
Have a ramp available anytime there are stairs.
Direct everyone through an easy open door or ADA accessible door.
Have seating near the front for participants who are Deaf or hard of hearing.
Have a removable chair at the front for an ASL interpreter.
Make sure the stage and projector screen are easily visible with closed captioning (CC).
Have clear signage to restrooms that include accessible stalls.
A Planning Guide for Making Temporary Events Accessible to People With Disabilities
How to Make Your Events More Accessible and Inclusive
Accessible Events: Planning and Preparation Are Key
Americans with Disabilities Act What Exhibition and Event Planners Must Know
Contact Disability Services
Student Union Building I (SUB I) - Suite 2500
Phone: 703.993.2474
Fax: 703.993.4306
Email: ods@gmu.edu