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I had the privilege of giving a talk at #vcea2021 today and it was by far the most accessible (in terms of finances, physical accessibility, and length of conference) that I have ever attended. And that's because it was virtual. 1/7
For once I didn't need to spend money on accommodations. I didn't need to spend time traveling. I could eat and hydrate and use the loo at my leisure. In a space that I know is free of allergens and has an accessible layout. 2/7
I didn't have to stand to chat in between sessions. I didn't have to get special accommodations for foods. I didn't have anxiety that despite my allergen requests there may still be something unsafe in my food. 3/7
There was acknowledgement about zoom fatigue in a way that is never discussed in physical in-person conferences. There was an ability to turn cameras off and lay down and listen to panels. Essentially it was perfect for me. 4/7
And it hurts when academics say things like "hopefully this can be in person next year." Because this, for me, is the most accessible a conference has ever been. And I worry that conferences will turn their back on virtual events and accessibility measures quickly. 5/7
I would not have been able to attend or give a talk today had the conference been held in person based on my current health. Virtual programming IS access for some of us (although certainly there are accessibility improvements to make). 6/7
I hope next year that scholars in conferences everywhere have a CHOICE to attend in person or virtually. And I hope that both of those options present equitable chances to network, present research, and engage with the academic community. 7/7 #AcademicChatter #DisabilityTwitter
