Pretty ProgressiveWhen hosting larger events such as concerts and festivals, you should make sure the event is as inclusive as possible. When events are inclusive, the highest number of people can enjoy themselves. You are also required to make events ADA-compliant in many cases. One of the best ways you can assure you are as accommodating as possible is to follow ADA-compliant guidelines. Read on to learn ways to keep events ADA-compliant.
What Is ADA?
ADA stands for the Americans with Disabilities Act and bans discrimination against disabled persons in various settings. There are hundreds of different types of disabilities that fall under the ADA. Examples of disabilities that events can be structured around include wheelchair users and people with visual, hearing, cognitive, and mobility disabilities.
Talk To Guests
Depending on the size of your event, you may be able to ask guests directly if they need any specialized accommodations. For example, suppose you are selling tickets online. In that case, you can leave a survey for people to take afterward that can inform you of any specific needs they may have. You can also include a checklist in notices, emails, fliers, or other messages that let people mark down what they will need to participate.
Take Care When Choosing a Venue
When searching for places to host your event, you should consider guests who have disabilities. Choose areas that are highly visible with plenty of signs pointing people in the right direction, easy access to public transportation and parking, and a well-lit space. If there are no ADA-compliant facilities onsite, consider renting ADA-compliant portable restrooms to accommodate guests. There should also be clear pathways, ramps, and debris-free travel areas.
Add Accessible Touches
Once your event starts, there are plenty of ways you can help enhance your presentations, like concerts, theater shows, and more. Providing a well-lit stage with monitors surrounding the area can help people with visual impairments. Make it simple and easy for anyone performing to be able to reach a stage. Have a sign language interpreter on the stage or sidelines or make assistive listening systems available. The more thought and effort you put into your accommodations, the more likely it is that everyone will enjoy your event.
When looking for ways to keep events ADA-compliant, there are many resources such as laws, regulations, historical precedents, and advocates to help you out. The more we strive to be inclusive, the easier it will become.
