Why is this important?
Inclusive physical spaces should be safe, accessible, and comfortable for D/deaf and D/disabled participants. This includes step-free access, clear signage, good lighting and sound, quiet areas, and accessible restrooms.
Actions
Explore actions for making physical spaces inclusive and accessible to everyone:
Choose accessible meeting spaces
Quick Actions
- Select venues with accessible entrances, restrooms, elevators, and parking.
- Provide seating for wheelchairs, quiet areas, and easy access to exits.
- Use lighting so that people can see faces and interpreters.
- Reduce background noise where possible.
- Offer breaks and allow people to step away without judgment.
- Provide quiet rooms where assistive technologies can be used.
- Ensure access to tech support, adapters, charging stations, and different plug types.
- Avoid working discussions over meals in noisy or informal spaces unless accommodations are provided.
- Remind members not to hold important conversations unless the full committee is present.
Barriers these actions address
- Inaccessible hybrid meetings
- Inaccessible in-person meetings
- Lack of training and support for chairs and facilitators