Introducing our newest accessibility webinar series highlighting the experience of disabled patrons at film festivals and the impact that good (and bad) accessibility can have on a patron with a disability.

Structured around the theme of a dinner party, each session brings together guests with lived experience & unique perspectives on disability for a candid conversation around accessibility in the festival space. 

Each webinar is presented in two parts:

The Narrative — A conversation with a patron who has experienced festival accessibility, or inaccessibility, firsthand, offering insight into their perspective.

The Solutions — A discussion of practical strategies and best practices festivals can adopt to improve the experience for disabled patrons.

This series is led by Mikaela McParlan (FFA Accessibility Advisor), Michael McNeely (writer, advocate, and film enthusiast), and Melissa Simpson (FFA Board). Registration is free and open to the public here

Part 1: Setting the Table - In our inaugural session, we are laying the groundwork for festival accessibility, exploring what true access looks like, why it benefits everyone, and how to build a roadmap that survives seasonal staff turnover.