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Gentle reminder to all festivals and organizations who are, understandably, experiencing virtual event fatigue and longing for when things "return to normal"--normal is not and never was better. The "normal" events that you used to hold left so many people out. 1/
2/ This has been a hard & difficult time, yes, but the lessons have also been invaluable. When the literary world goes back to in-person events, ask yourself: is this event truly as inclusive as it can be? How can you ensure optimal accessibility for all of your guests?
3/ If you have found yourself depressed because virtual events don't offer the kind of community you crave, consider: how many others might have been depressed for *years* because the literary world has traditionally shut them out?
4/ How can we be better, do better, reach for more in this new world? I'll be the first to say that in-person events are important. I love the community they engender, the energy they bring. But in-person events aren't everything. There are so many ways to create community.
5/ As we go forward, and (hopefully) as the world continues to open up, think about how we might combine the best of both of these things--the accessibility of virtual events and the in-person magic of traditional events that are ALSO as accessible as they can be.
6/ I won't lie--this is a long road. My work as an advocate and with @TheFOLD_ has taught me that accessibility, especially, is a long and disheartening fight. But it's worth it all the same. If you can't make sweeping progress, make a progress that inches along. Always forward.
7/ If you're planning events, plan them with accessibility first and foremost in mind. Do not let ASL or captions or wheelchair accessibility be an afterthought. THINK: who can't access this space? How might you change the environment to make that access possible?
8/ If you're looking to plan hybrid events, make sure that both elements are inclusive. Don't take the easy way out: virtual access for those who can't physically enter a space is not equal accessibility. Make your physical space accessible. Full stop.
9/ Build accessibility (both for your events and for your artists) right into your budget. Set money aside every year for accessible travel and accommodations for artists who might require it.
10/ Beaming a disabled author or artist in via Zoom when everyone else is gathered together physically isn't accessibility--it's setting the disabled person apart from the rest. It's saying, "This wasn't good enough for the others, but it's good enough for you".
11/ (Note, of course, that this becomes different when multiple people take part in a video conference event. The key is: same options and access for all.)
12/ Again--this is a long road. Figuring it all out is difficult. This is why reaching out to the disability community is so important. Hire accessibility consultants. Speak to disabled people in yr communities. We can welcome a new literary world together. 
