Enhancing Accessibility: AuSM’s Commitment to Inclusion
Over the past two years, AuSM has made significant strides in improving accessibility across our events, online spaces, and office environment. As a disability organization, we know that it is essential to model inclusivity and accessibility in a truly meaningful way. Too often, organizations view accommodations as a simple checklist instead of a way to build spaces that welcome individuals, no matter their needs. By removing barriers, AuSM not only creates opportunities for individuals with disabilities but also enriches our entire community. Accessibility ensures that everyone’s voices and contributions are valued, fostering a culture of acceptance and belonging. It also reflects our fundamental commitment to the idea that every person has the right to be in community, and that it is everyone’s responsibility to make that a reality.
Being truly accessible and inclusive means having deep conversations with our community members and acting on the feedback we hear, which is why AuSM is constantly making adjustments and improvements to our accommodations. Here are some of our most recent updates.
Inclusive Events for All
While AuSM has always prioritized accessibility, we have added new accommodations to allow our events to include more people. These enhancements include:
- ASL Translation and CART Captioning: Available by request at all events, ensuring access for individuals who are Deaf or hard of hearing.
- Auto-Captioning: Implemented universally at events for broader accessibility.
- Hangout Spaces: Introduced as an alternative to quiet rooms, these spaces welcome socializing and noise, catering to individuals who need a break but prefer a more dynamic environment.
- Air Filtration Systems: Deployed at the Minnesota Autism Conference to promote health and comfort for all attendees.
- Social Narratives: Designed for our camp programs to help participants navigate their experience with confidence and ease.
- Free and Discounted Rates for DSPs: Extended to direct service professionals supporting individuals with disabilities, removing financial barriers to participation.
At the heart of all these changes is direct dialogue with our community to learn what will make autistic community members feel welcome and included in our spaces.
Accessible Online and Physical Spaces
In addition to events, we have prioritized accessibility in our online and office environments:
- Alt Text for Images: Incorporated into all graphics and images on our website and social media, ensuring content is accessible to individuals using screen readers.
- Community Collaboration: Partnered with community members to plan events and brainstorm innovative accessibility solutions.
- Office Enhancements:
- Sensory Space: A calming area equipped to support sensory needs.
- Improved Lighting: Replaced overhead fluorescents with softer, more accommodating options.
- Fidgets: Readily available to support focus and comfort for all visitors.
Empowering Others with the Accessible Events Toolkit
AuSM’s commitment extends beyond our organization with the creation of the Accessible Events Toolkit. This comprehensive resource provides practical strategies, checklists, and templates to help others integrate accessibility into their events. It emphasizes key principles, such as:
- Accessibility as a Mindset: Beyond checklists, accessibility requires a commitment to inclusivity as a core value.
- Involving Disabled People: Engaging individuals with disabilities throughout planning processes ensures meaningful inclusion.
- Clear Communication: Transparent and consistent communication helps set expectations and empowers participants.
- Flexibility: Offering a variety of accommodations acknowledges the diverse needs of attendees, speakers, and staff.
- Innovation: Thinking outside the box allows for creative solutions that address unique challenges.
Click here to view the toolkit.
Looking Ahead
AuSM remains dedicated to expanding our accessibility efforts, guided by feedback from the community and a steadfast commitment to equity and inclusion. Together, we can continue to create spaces where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.