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

  • We are holding Access Hours from 10 am-12 pm on Sunday, June 15th at Pride in the Park! There will be no amplified sound and masking will be encouraged.

    Click over to our Pride 2025 page for full Accessibility Information

  • 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.