Add notes on accessibility beyond the ADA

[Mramir-bounteous]

What does it mean to have inclusion of people with disabilities beyond just physical limitations

[helenasue]

I love that this is here! We have a bunch of different types of disabilities, and I think it's important that we find a way to include anyone who wants to participate as much as possible.

Like crasx said, not all disabilities are physical, and those matter too. There was quite a bit of talk at TCDC about how to create a welcoming environment to include people with social anxiety, Aspergers, sensory issues, etc.

Some of the ideas that were mentioned (or inspired by that conversation later):

• Choosing after-party or recreational gathering spaces that aren't necessarily at a bar. Spaces like these are often very confined, loud, and have a lot of lighting that can be difficult for people with sensory issues, and the exuberant 'drinking party' vibe can be a bit much for people with a lot of social anxiety, particularly those who don't or can't drink. Having somewhere to socialize without having to shout or be pressed in with others can make that experience much more welcoming.

• A sensory cool-down room would be a great option at DrupalCon. People with Autism or sensory feedback disorders would have a quiet space to retreat and gather themselves before going back out into the loud busy areas.

As far as physical disabilities go, I think there are some great accommodations that some camps are making that would be wonderful to see at DrupalCon as well. Disregard it and add a ++ from me if we already are. :)

• Penny Arcade Expo allows individuals with physical disabilities that might make them move more slowly (crutches, wheelchairs, CP, etc) onto the expo floor 15 minutes early to allow a head start toward booths and swag that gets crowded out quickly. There's also priority access at high-demand events like keynotes.

• Sign-language interpreters. I know some camps have struggled with this or asked for notice if it will be needed. How does DrupalCon handle that need?

• Adequate space in session rooms for wheelchair users. Does each room have space for individuals using wheelchairs to attend? I ran into this one at FLDC where an attendee of my session in the auditorium mentioned that she didn't know if she would be able to attend my session later that day in a classroom over concerns that her wheelchair would not fit. It indeed would not have fit if she hadn't said anything with ample notice to allow me to rearrange the room.

There are just a few off of the top of my head, but I hope others will contribute to this conversation so that Drupal events can be as inclusive as possible. :)

[ksenzee]

Game nights with no drinking, in a comfortably lit environment, are a great option to add to an event. They're an accessible alternative for people with anxiety and sensory issues, but they're also just plain more fun for people who don't like the party scene.