View Topic - Accessible Events

Abdul-Baha, the perfect exemplar and extoller of all of the virtues of what it means to be what we are intended to be as humans, was the host of many gatherings and events.  From the many stories of his travels and engagements, we know that his attention, care, and focus, was on Unity and Justice, and always on Inclusion of those who were considered to be historically marginalized populations, including those with disabilities. 

For Baha'is, almost everything that happens in our communities can be considered an event. When organizing a community or other event, regardless of its size, it's essential to incorporate accessibility at all levels. 

The on-line meeting has become a common way of getting together virtually. Since the Pandemic of 2020 it has become even more prominent.  This has made it possible for many of us to continue to meet and conduct business and have our gatherings and even reach out to larger numbers of people across vast distances.

As you plan your virtual or on-line event, also be sure to see: Tips and Suggestions for how to Plan for a Welcoming and Inclusive Accessible Event or Gathering. This will help with more information regarding the overall event planning process for Accessibility in general. There are many recources included.

There are different types of on-line meeting of conference apps and utilities that are commonly used.  Some are more accessible than others.

Ever since the advent of the On-line Conference and the addition of the Chat feature, both Event Speakers and Conference Attendees have struggled with this common problem.  That is rude and distracting side conversations taking place in the chat during the presentations.

Many, if not all of us have witnessed this problem.  We sign up for a Conference and look forward to a particular Speaker.  That Speaker comes on and begins their presentation.  Just then a pop up on the screen to Everyone says something like,  “Hello from Judy from Sunny Florida!  How is the weather where you are?  Who is this guy that is talking?  Anybody heard of him?”  Then of course several friends of Judy are compelled to respond, creating a side conversation during the presentation.