Accessibility is about meeting a range of considerations, including physical, sensory, cognitive, and emotional needs. By addressing these diverse needs, events can ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can fully participate, be seen, and feel valued. And I want to take some time to say that Winnipeg Pride is doing a great job!
Winnipeg Pride is setting a high standard for inclusivity with its upcoming main celebration on June 1st and 2nd. Their commitment to accessibility shines in their event planning and consideration.
Their website’s accessibility page, found at pridewinnipeg.com/accessibility, is a helpful tool providing clear and comprehensive information for all attendees as well as a contact person to reach out to with questions and requests.
The June 1st and 2nd Pride festival at the Forks includes ASL services and a dedicated family-friendly section at the festival stage, a quiet space in a cool indoor room located nearby, accessible entrances and bar, and an information tent to serve as a hub for assistance and information. The Winnipeg Pride Parade on Sunday, June 2nd, has a climate-controlled viewing area that you can access via pre-registration, and described audio.
While I would love to see accessibility information linked to all events and venues used during Winnipeg Pride Week, I understand that the organizers share this goal. I hope the community can collaborate to make this a reality in the future.
I am a queer man with disabilities and a diversity, equity and inclusion champion for the service organization Rotary International. I am proud to join my fellow Rotary members to celebrate and build community at this year’s Pride Parade. This is only possible because of the accessibility work done by Winnipeg Pride.
With Pride,
Peter
