Holding a meeting without barriers in Berlin
Meetings and events that are accessible to wheelchair users and other people with disabilities are increasingly in demand within the event industry. Berlin is playing a leading role when it co...
Diversity and Inclusion in the Event Industry: How DE&I Can Enrich Your Event
Summary of the blog post
DE&I (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) are principles gaining increasing importance in companies and organisations. They represent respectful and fair treatment of individuals, regardless of origin, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or other characteristics.
Although these principles seem self-evident, there is much room for improvement in practice. This is why many companies are increasingly implementing measures and established organisational structures emphasizing the values of tolerance, equality, and collaboration, thereby strengthening their corporate culture. Specialised DE&I teams, workshops, and dialogue with those affected by discrimination are just a few examples of the numerous steps companies can take in this regard.
In the events industry, enhancing DE&I holds significant potential. More inclusive and diverse events ensure that all participants—whether attendees or service providers—feel more valued and can reach their full potential. This, in turn, demonstrably increases engagement and fosters a positive atmosphere.
How can an event with a DE&I focus be implemented? From straightforward adjustments to more
Inclusive Registration
Menschen mit Hörbehinderungen im Deutschen Historischen Museum
Inclusion begins with the event registration process. Consider your target audience, their potential needs, and the information you can provide through digital communication in advance to ensure barrier-free participation. For instance, consider the need for sign language interpreters, mobility aids, or information on food intolerances.
Name badges created based on information from the registration process offer the opportunity to include gender pronouns. This simple measure can have a significant impact, making some participants feel more visible and valued.
Accessible Communication
Before and during the event, ensure an accessible flow of information. Make sure your event website is available in an accessible format, as well as all on-site communication materials. The German Federation of the Blind and Partially Sighted recommends using Sans-Serif fonts and sufficient font sizes. If materials need to be specially produced, it’s important to ask beforehand how many participants require accessible communication materials due to sustainability considerations. This ensures that economic and ecological aspects are considered, and excess-production of printed materials is avoided.
Selected Visual Content in Communication
When selecting photos, use images that reflect a cross-section of society, so that as many target groups as possible feel represented and included.
visitBerlin@silent green 2023
Choosing the Location
The choice of location is a crucial factor for the inclusive nature of your event. The accessibility of the venue plays a key role. Barrier-free and sufficiently wide paths for wheelchair users, proximity to elevators and parking spaces can make a significant difference in ensuring the event is accessible and safe for everyone. The restrooms and other facilities should also be accessible.
Gender-neutral restrooms and free hygiene products can further contribute to a welcoming atmosphere. Careful planning of these aspects allows participants, regardless of mobility or other limitations, to easily reach and navigate the location, ensuring they feel safe and comfortable.
Future of Festivals 2022
Catering
The catering offering plays a crucial role in the satisfaction of your guests. Provide vegan, vegetarian, kosher, halal, and gluten-free options. Non-alcoholic beverages should also be part of the offering. Capture participants' dietary preferences during registration to make the appropriate selections.
Tip:
Donate leftover food to organizations or facilities that redistribute meals to those in need. Apps or local initiatives offer numerous simple and reliable donation opportunities.
Find additional tips and Sustainable Guidelines for your event here.
The Green Market Berlin - Autumn-Edition
Program Selection
The core of any successful event is a well-thought-out program. Ensure a balanced representation of people from various groups among the speakers. Include individuals of different genders, experts from diverse cultures, as well as representatives of the LGBTQI+ community to gain a wide range of perspectives and ideas.
This benefits your event as well because diverse viewpoints make discussions more engaging, and participants can gain new insights.
Bestival 2023
BESTIVAL 2023
At the same time, always consider that your efforts are authentic and in line with the goals of the organisers. A program compiled solely for the sake of diversity, without establishing a connection to the message and purpose of the event and without demonstrating genuine appreciation, can lead to mistrust and skepticism. Authenticity is key to providing both participants and speakers with a positive experience and to avoiding the accusation of minority tokenism or "Diversity Washing."
Conclusion:
There are many aspects to consider when organising diverse and inclusive events. Many measures can be implemented by simple means, but larger efforts are also worthwhile. Every action taken not only enhances your image as a company or organisation genuinely committed to diversity and inclusion but also contributes to fewer people feeling excluded and fosters positive new connections.
By integrating considerations of equality, diversity, and inclusion among event participants early and consistently into your event planning, you create spaces where people feel welcome regardless of their background, gender, or other distinguishing features. This not only increases participant engagement and satisfaction but also allows you to establish a connection with your target audience, enabling you to have an even greater impact on your audience, thus making your efforts even more sustainable.
ITB 2024
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