SXSW

22 SXSW wants to ensure patrons with  disabilities have an enjoyable experience.  Everyone at SXSW should be versed in  respectful and effective ways to work  with this group of patrons. The best way  to understand our policies is to read the  accessibility web page at sxsw.com/ accessibility-sxsw.  A couple of things right off the bat that are  EXTREMELY important:  • If you are uncomfortable with anything,  immediately contact your crew manager  and have them call Frank Schaefer or Cari  Wieland on their conference phones. • Accessibility information is available at all  of the info booths in the Austin Convention  Center.  • LEGALLY, WE CANNOT ASK WHAT  A PERSON'S DISABILITY IS. If it is not  obvious what someone's disability is the  proper procedure is to ask, "How can we  accommodate you?" Volunteers can go over print material  with patrons and provide maps for their  companions at the info booths.  • Do not touch a person with a disability.  Wait for them to ask for help. They will tell  you exactly what they need. • Be respectful. For example, don't say,  "a blind guy." Try to say "the patron who  is blind." This establishes the patron as a  person first and foremost who also happens  to have a disability. In general, direct patrons to the website  when possible at sxsw.com/accessibility- sxsw. Basic types of disabilities and ways  we will accommodate: FOR PATRONS WHO HAVE MOBILITY DISABILITIES Patrons with mobility disabilities who  require the assistance of a companion  can get a specially marked badge at  Registration when they pick up their badge  and big bags. The badge will have an "A"  with a circle around it to identify their need  for a companion, and the companion will be  given a "plus 1" accessibility wristband to  wear during the duration of the event. The  patron with disabilities must have a proper  badge, but the companion only requires  the wristband that is given to them at the  Registration Info Desk, and can only gain  entrance to events when accompanying the  patron with credentials. FOR PATRONS WHO ARE BLIND Patrons who are blind that require the  assistance of a companion can get a  specially marked badge at Registration  when they pick up their badge and big  bags. The badge will have an "A" with a  circle around it to identify their need for  a companion, and the companion will be  given a "plus 1" accessibility wristband to  wear during the duration of the event. The  patron with disabilities must have a proper  badge, but the companion only requires  the wristband that is given to them at the  Registration Info Desk, and can only gain  entrance to events when accompanying the  patron with credentials. Volunteers can go  over print material with them and provide  maps for their companions at the info  booths. FOR PATRONS WHO ARE DEAF SXSW has engaged LotuSIGN Interpretation  Services to provide quality American Sign  Language interpreters when needed at  our events. Seating at SXSW events fills  up quickly. Seats located for interpreter  viewing will be saved until an event starts,  after which seating will be opened up to  the general audience on a first-come, first- served basis. ACCESSIBILITY INFORMATION

• Cover