Accessibility & Inclusion
The Ithaca Pride Alliance is committed to creating accessible events and materials as part of our overall commitment to supporting an inclusive LGBTQ+ community. We’ve heard from the community that accessibility is a key issue, and that many events & spaces - including some we have been a part of - still need improvement. We’re listening.
We are sharing our draft accessibility standards and guidelines written and published in February 2025. They encompass existing frameworks such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) best practices, but also less formalized and equally important approaches such as providing low-stimulation participation options for neurodivergent individuals. Finding a way to meet many needs in our small, often under-resourced community will be a challenge we know we can tackle, together.
Now, we need your help to set a roadmap for how we achieve these goals, or work to prioritize and improve them. We are an all-volunteer organization, and your voice is needed! Join the IPA Accessibility working group or provide feedback on these documents to accessbility@ithacapridealliance.org.
The Ithaca Pride Alliance is committed to creating accessible events and materials as part of our overall commitment to supporting an inclusive LGBTQ+ community. Accessibility means removing barriers and providing accommodations so that everyone has equitable access and opportunity regardless of physical, cognitive, cultural, or other capacities.
Our definition of accessibility
Ensuring everyone, regardless of ability, can equally participate.
Our definition of inclusion
Fostering a welcoming environment where individuals and families, regardless of race, culture, religion or identity, feel valued, respected, and empowered to fully participate.
Accessibility means removing barriers and providing accommodations so that everyone has equitable access and opportunity regardless of physical, cognitive, cultural, or other abilities, while inclusion focuses on ensuring the safety, comfort, and full integration of all identities in ways that are comfortable and empowering for each individual. These complimentary values ensure everyone, regardless of background or ability, can connect, learn, and grow together through shared and diverse experiences.
Accessibility & Inclusion Policies
Our standards and guidelines are under development. The Ithaca Pride Alliance (IPA) launched in 2024 with a commitment to hosting accessible events. Draft accessibility guidelines to support this goal were developed in February 2025. We invite your input to refine these guidelines further and establish goals for inclusive and accessible spaces, education, and community resources.
Note that these guidelines represent draft goals and actionable items and function as a working checklist for our Board and teams to implement. Many items are in progress, while others will require additional volunteers and resources. The IPA Accessibility Committee will help further shape this work.
Accessibility Standards & Guidelines
Currently, our guidelines for supporting accessibility encompass existing frameworks such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) best practices, but also less formalized and equally important approaches such as providing low-stimulation participation options for neurodivergent individuals. While these guidelines incorporate some cultural and identity inclusion considerations, further development is needed to create a fully comprehensive framework for addressing all aspects of inclusion.
Your voice is needed to shape this work.
Ithaca Pride Alliance is a 100% volunteer organization. Help make a difference in your community by joining or leading the IPA Accessibility & Inclusion Working Group. This group will work to improve standards and guidelines for community partners and set goals for accessibility education, inclusive policies, and overall access for events like Pride and year-round. Everyone is welcome to participate in the ongoing work to create a more accessible LGTBQ+ community.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
All Y’All Clothing Swap 3/8/25 10 am-2:30 pm
Access Hour: 10 am- 11 am
Our access hour is set for individuals who are COVID-conscious, need more time/space to engage with the swap, need a low sensory experience, or would like help. All set-up volunteers, resource individuals, and other team members will be masked during set-up and during the access hour. No amplified sound will be played during this hour. Helper volunteers will be available for those who desire additional help.
General Access Information
Building Access: Martha Hamblin Hall is on the 3rd floor of CSMA. There is elevator access at the rear of the building, and signage with directions will be posted. A volunteer will also be posted at the exterior door to ensure access.
A floor plan of our event will be posted at least 72 hours before the event. The layout will be set up with a minimum of 36” of travel access. Restrooms have at least one ADA-accessible stall.
Changing spaces will be set up, and at least one will have a bench and room for a wheelchair/powerchair to maneuver.
There is limited street parking outside the building. It is a short walk from the Green St. and Seneca St. parking garages and the Seneca St. TCAT bus stop.
Quiet Space: A low sensory room will be available throughout the event with soft lighting, no amplified sound, soft seating, and fidget toys.
Accessibility aids: the following items will be available for the duration of the event:
earplugs
grabber tools
folding/collapsible stools
masks
Refreshments: all refreshments will be clearly labeled with common allergens, and there will be options for those who are gluten-free, vegan, and nut-allergic.
Have accessibility questions that are not answered here?
-
Please reach out to our Accessibility Coordinator at accessibility@ithacapridealliance.org
Please allow up to 24 hours for our Accessibility Working Group to return your inquiry.