XR Principles of Inclusivity

Disablity Access Training | Disabled Rebels Network | June 2023

In order to build an inclusive approach towards involving all sections of society in the struggle to highlight the Climate Emergence, it is necessary for XR to pay particular attention to five activity areas:

Please also read Diversity and Inclusivity at XR Actions when planning an action.

Dyslexia Friendly Style Guide

What is inclusivity?

An inclusive product, service or environment does not exclude any section of society. Inclusive solutions consider all users and participants, including disabled people, and is a positive step towards a holistic, universal system.

The Principles of Inclusivity
Organisation and running of meetings or activities

When considering an accessible and inclusive meeting, there are three aspects you need to think about:

  1. Planning and preparation
  2. The equipment and information
  3. The conduct of the meeting.
1. Planning - Choosing a Venue

When considering whether a venue is accessible, the first thought may be to avoid entrances with steps. There are many other aspects to consider or options that you can provide to make the venue accessible. The information below covers a variety of suggestions however it doesn't cover every aspect. You will also need to think about different religions / faiths, backgrounds and cultures, e.g. different faiths have specific approaches to alcohol, as well as considering if attendees might be in recovery and possibly won't attend if alcohol is being served on the premises - the best practice is to consider your potential attendees / rebels and if after reading this guide you're unsure of their needs, please search the internet for information:

2. Providing Information and Equipment
3. Conduct - During the meeting
The Production of Documentation – Including Leaflets

Here are some tips on good practice:

When considering lay-out and design for posters and leaflets (as well as the points above):

Take care to avoid, where possible:

General Good Practice in Communication and Information

Written Communication:

Audio information:

Audio information is especially important for people with a visual impairment, dyslexia, learning difficulties, non-English speakers and people who struggle to understand maps; non-disabled people may also find it reassuring and helpful.

Etiquette for producing your own audio CD: use people with clear speaking voices. Give an introduction and a summary e.g. this is an annual report of 20 pages. Have gaps between sections; state page number at appropriate points so that people can retrieve information; give contact details at the end; if pictures are important to the text describe them. Allow time for taping to be done in stages so that the reader does not sound bored.

Accessibility of the XR websites: Accessible website design

Text:

Use a sans serif typeface, like Karla as it is easier to read. A large font equivalent to Karla 14 is a good size – the alternative is to have a Large Print button at the top of the home page.

The text should be colour-contrasted with its surroundings – like black/white, yellow/blue, green/white. Many visually impaired people find it easier to read reverse coloured text – e.g. white characters (#FFFFFF), on racing green (#006600) background

Images:

Pictures/pictograms/icons help many people with learning disabilities, but can be a hindrance to people using voice software like Hal/Supernova (text-reader software). Where pictures are included, make sure the alt tags say what they are or what they do (e.g.: click here for Toyota cars)

Frames:

Do not use them!.

Tables:

Tables are inaccessible for many with visual impairments and some screen readers. If tables are necessary, provide both a caption and a summary of its contents.

Forms:

Web-based forms can usually be read by text readers, but it’s worthwhile including a “print” button, for people who can’t use the online version.

Document downloads:

Ensure documents are available as both a Word document and as a PDF.

Structure:

Make sure website pages have a clear and logical structure.

Accessibility of demonstrations and other activities

There have always been disabled people engaged in political activities but never to the extent that they are today. It is not possible or practical for organisers of demonstrations or certain other political activities to consider the access needs of all the disabled individuals who may want to take part. Disabled people for their part equally need to understand that with rights come responsibilities and this includes their own safety. Nevertheless in order to be able to make informed choices as to whether or not they can participate, disabled people require as much information as is possible to give.

Disabled people would find it useful to know for example:


Revision #27
Created 20 April 2021 04:36:18 by Alix Emery
Updated 10 August 2023 14:30:22 by Cat Cloud