ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES AT PRIDE

We understand that our Festival Site at the Garrison Grounds is not accessible to everyone. We have been trying new efforts each year for the past number of years to make it as accessible as possible, but we recognize it will never be completely accessible to everyone, as many spaces are not. We engage the community and our Accessibility Coordinators each year to find ways to make the grounds physically accessible such as flattening the entrance gate, installing Mobi-mats, and filling holes on the field.

ACCESSIBILITY COMMITTEE & COORDINATORS

One of our many planning committees is the Accessibility Committee. The community meets monthly throughout the year to discuss current accessibility plans, changes, and improvements that can be made. The committee is made up of a Committee Lead, and community members who act as committee members.

During, and leading up to the festival, we contract an Accessibility Coordinator. This individual implements the recommendations of the committee, consults on existing Pride work and plans, and works on-site to ensure accessibility efforts are being prioritized.

Contact information for the Accessibility Coordinator will be available in the spring. Please reach out to fiona@halifaxpride.com with any immediate concerns or questions.

Accessible Festival Site Space

Drawing on community feedback from previous festivals. We have made several changes to our accessible space located on the Garrison grounds. We understand the challenges presented by the festival site, And actively encourage feedback from the community. This year, we are pleased to offer a dedicated accessible entrance to the site. We will also be offering a dedicated area for those needing to access flatter areas of the festival grounds, or more space. This space offers views of the main stage as well as a small bar to purchase beverages. Accessible washrooms will also be located throughout the festival site.

Information Booth

The Info Booth is located at the Sackville St entrance to the site, right beside the street before entering the gates. Volunteers at the booth are able to provide information about accessible entrances and exits, ASL interpretation, accessible seating on-site, sighted guides, and much more. They are also able to answer any questions you may have about the festival or site.

ASL INTERPRETATION

American Sign Language interpretation is offered at all live, in-person entertainment events as well as all online events. We always try to centre ASL interpreters in a place that is easily viewable for guests, and place signage that easily indicates accessible viewing areas on-site.

SOBER SPACE

After feedback from sober community members, we are introduced a Sober Space at all nighttime entertainment events in 2022. Returning in 2024 and 2025, the space will be under the large Community Tent on site each night, and will offer mocktails and non-alcoholic beverages for sale. The space will be staff by volunteers and will offer a space for folks to still enjoy the on-site entertainment.