Just as with documents, websites, or emails; you want to ensure what you are planning is experienced equally and enjoyed by all. This tutorial will show you many things (many low-cost and no-cost things) you can do to make your event more inclusive. When planning an event, you must ensure that your event or meeting is accessible to all your participants. Remember – accessibility is not just about addressing existing barriers…it’s also important to anticipate potential barriers. Accommodation is often simple, inexpensive and ensures persons with disabilities have equal opportunity to fully participate in your event or meeting.
Organizers must allow enough time to properly plan and budget for an event to allow time to arrange any accommodations. Any accessibility related costs should be included in the overall event budget. It is best practice to plan in three steps: Step 1: Before your event or meeting, Step 2: During the event or meeting, and Step 3: After the event or meeting.
Please review the checklist on Planning Accessible Events (PDF 262 KB) during the initial planning stage.
Booking Translation, Interpretation and American Sign Language (ASL)
Whether for an event, a meeting, or a job interview; you or your department may receive a request for an ASL Interpreter that you can book through different sources.
- The Canadian Hearing Society (CHS) Interpreting Services provides interpreters that are professionally trained in sign language and knowledgeable in the language and culture of both Deaf and hearing people. They provide communication in American Sign Language (ASL)- English, or la langue des signes québécoise (LSQ)- French.
- The Canadian Association of Sign Language Interpreters offers a directory of Interpreters you can search and find an interpreter: CASLI – Interpreter Directory
ASL Interpreters
ASL Interpreters are in high demand and should be booked at least 3 weeks before your meeting or event to ensure availability. Interpreting is demanding work and as such, if your event’s duration is more than 60 minutes, you may need to book more than one.