Community Agreements & Accessibility Guidelines

Community Agreements

What do you need to participate fully? 

  • Introduce ourselves (name & organization) before speaking
  • Ask questions! (e.g., on terminology)
  • Treat each other with respect, especially in conflict/disagreement.
  • Have open-mindedness to different perspectives.
  • Be Present:
    • Have your phone on silent.
    • Focus on your breath.
  • Feel confident to share what you bring
  • Remember that we are here to share and learn
  • Encourage a diversity of voices and opinions
  • Hold the vision!
  • Have fun!

Accessibility Guidelines

In order to be as inclusive as possible, please keep the following guidelines in mind:

  • If you are using the microphone, please state your name and organization when you start speaking.
  • If someone who is blind asks you who is speaking, please share the speaker’s name & organization to the best of your ability.
  • When convening in a small group for the first time, please share a round of names.
  • Please describe any visual content.
  • If you think someone who is blind may need help navigating, ask first.
  • If your help is accepted, allow them to grasp your arm just above the elbow.
  • If you see someone who is blind or visually impaired about to encounter danger, be calm and clear when you warn the person.
  • Identify yourself when approaching someone who is blind, or when entering a room with them. Also identify when you are leaving the room or conversation.
  • Don’t pet or distract a working guide dog. Ask the handler for permission before interacting with the dog.
  • When in doubt, use “people first” language  e.i. “person with a disability” vs. “disabled person”.