Accessibility Statement

The Global Economic Alliance (GEA) is committed to ensuring that the AGI Global Summit Portland and our website are accessible to all attendees, including individuals with disabilities. We strive to provide an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone.

This Accessibility Statement outlines our ongoing efforts to ensure full accessibility and compliance with applicable accessibility standards and regulations.

1. Our Commitment

GEA is dedicated to:

• Providing equal access and opportunity to all attendees
• Ensuring our event venue is fully accessible
• Maintaining website accessibility in compliance with WCAG standards
• Offering reasonable accommodations to meet individual needs
• Continuously improving accessibility across all aspects of our events
• Training staff and volunteers on accessibility best practices

2. Venue Accessibility

The AGI Global Summit Portland will be held at a fully ADA-compliant venue that meets or exceeds the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

2.1 Physical Accessibility Features

• Accessible Entrances: Step-free, wheelchair-accessible entrances with automatic doors
• Elevators: Accessible elevators with audio announcements and braille indicators
• Ramps: Wheelchair ramps throughout the venue where applicable
• Restrooms: Fully accessible, gender-neutral restrooms on every floor
• Seating: Wheelchair-accessible seating areas in all event spaces
• Pathways: Wide, clear pathways and corridors for easy navigation
• Signage: Clear, high-contrast signage with large print and braille where appropriate
• Lighting: Adequate lighting throughout the venue

2.2 Parking and Transportation

• Accessible Parking: Designated accessible parking spaces near the entrance
• Drop-off Zone: Accessible drop-off and pick-up areas at the main entrance
• Public Transit: The venue is located near accessible public transportation
• Shuttle Service: Accessible shuttle service (if provided) with wheelchair lifts

2.3 Event Space Accessibility

• Accessible Seating: Reserved accessible seating in all presentation rooms
• Stage Access: Wheelchair-accessible routes to stages and presentation areas
• Clear Sightlines: Unobstructed views for wheelchair users and individuals of varying heights
• Quiet Spaces: Designated quiet rooms for attendees who need sensory breaks

3. Assistive Services and Accommodations

We offer a range of assistive services to ensure all attendees can fully participate in the event:

3.1 Communication Access

• Sign Language Interpreters: American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters available upon request
• Real-Time Captioning (CART): Live captioning for keynote sessions and major presentations
• Assistive Listening Devices: Available for individuals with hearing impairments
• Large Print Materials: Event materials available in large print format upon request
• Braille Materials: Select materials available in braille upon advance request

3.2 Mobility and Physical Support

• Wheelchair Accessibility: All event areas are wheelchair accessible
• Seating Accommodations: Reserved seating for attendees with mobility limitations
• Service Animals: Service animals are welcome throughout the venue
• Personal Care Attendants: Complimentary registration for personal care attendants/companions
• Accessible Tables: Height-adjustable tables in networking and dining areas

3.3 Sensory and Cognitive Accommodations

• Quiet Rooms: Dedicated spaces for sensory breaks and decompression
• Reduced Stimulation Seating: Seating areas with reduced visual and auditory stimulation
• Clear Schedules: Detailed, easy-to-read event schedules and maps
• Fragrance-Free Policy: We encourage attendees to refrain from wearing strong fragrances

3.4 Dietary Accommodations

• Dietary restrictions and allergies accommodated (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, halal, etc.)
• Clearly labeled food items with ingredient information
• Staff available to answer questions about food preparation

4. Website Accessibility

We strive to maintain our website in compliance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA standards.

4.1 Website Features

• Keyboard Navigation: Full website functionality accessible via keyboard
• Screen Reader Compatibility: Compatible with popular screen readers (JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver)
• Alt Text: Descriptive alternative text for all images and graphics
• Color Contrast: Sufficient color contrast ratios for text and background elements
• Responsive Design: Mobile-friendly and adaptable to various screen sizes
• Clear Navigation: Logical, consistent navigation structure
• Readable Fonts: Clear, legible typography with adjustable text sizes
• Form Accessibility: Properly labeled form fields with error identification
• Skip Links: "Skip to content" links for efficient navigation

4.2 Ongoing Improvements

We regularly audit and test our website to identify and address accessibility barriers. Our development team follows accessibility best practices and stays current with evolving standards and technologies.

5. How to Request Accommodations

If you require specific accommodations, auxiliary aids, or services to participate in the AGI Global Summit Portland, please contact us as early as possible.

5.1 How to Submit a Request

Contact our Accessibility Coordinator at:

5.2 Information to Include

When submitting your request, please provide:

• Your name and registration confirmation number (if registered)
• Specific accommodation(s) needed
• Any relevant details that will help us meet your needs
• Preferred method of contact

All accommodation requests are handled confidentially. We will respond to your request within 3 business days to confirm arrangements.

6. Companion and Personal Care Attendant Policy

Attendees who require a personal care attendant or companion to assist them during the event may register their attendant at no additional charge.

To register a companion, please contact accessibility@agiglobalsummit.org with your registration details.

7. Service Animal Policy

Service animals are welcome at the AGI Global Summit Portland in accordance with the ADA. Service animals must:

• Be under the handler's control at all times
• Be harnessed, leashed, or tethered (unless these devices interfere with the animal's work)
• Be housebroken and well-behaved

Service animals in training and emotional support animals may be subject to different policies. Please contact us in advance to discuss specific circumstances.

8. Accessibility Feedback

We welcome your feedback on the accessibility of our event and website. Your input helps us identify areas for improvement and better serve all attendees.

If you experience any accessibility barriers or have suggestions for improvement, please contact us at:

9. Compliance and Standards

Our accessibility efforts are guided by:

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) - Title III
• Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act
• Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA
• International Building Code (IBC) accessibility provisions

10. Third-Party Content

While we strive to ensure accessibility across all aspects of our website, some third-party content, plugins, or embedded media may not be fully accessible. We are working with our vendors and partners to improve accessibility of all integrated services.

11. Limitations and Ongoing Efforts

Despite our best efforts, some accessibility challenges may persist. We are committed to:

• Conducting regular accessibility audits
• Implementing user feedback and recommendations
• Training staff on accessibility awareness and best practices
• Staying current with evolving accessibility standards and technologies
• Prioritizing accessibility in all planning and development decisions

12. Contact Information

For accessibility-related questions, accommodation requests, or to report accessibility barriers, please contact:

We will respond to all accessibility inquiries within 3 business days.

13. Updates to This Statement

This Accessibility Statement may be updated periodically to reflect changes in our accessibility practices, venue information, or applicable standards. The effective date at the top of this page indicates when this statement was last revised.