The task of creating a welcoming event for everyone is not only a challenge nowadays but also a necessity for event professionals. We are living in a time when, even though we have more ways and freedom to express our preferences and needs, there is also a greater risk of excluding some of while organizing a reunion. This is why you need to pay special attention to every detail when organizing an event.

Promoting inclusivity at events goes beyond simply providing accessibility to the venue or informing attendees that every community is welcome. Actually, enhancing respect for everyone who might attend begins long before the event itself. Ideally, it should commence as soon as you start planning out the reunion:

• Diverse Team
  One of the best ways to ensure the inclusivity of your event is to assemble a team composed of individuals who understand and represent the communities your attendees are part of. This will make it easier to avoid overlooking important details, even before selecting the venue and opening the online registration. Another important point is to ensure that every speaker and brand you wish to work with is supportive of these communities and aligned with your inclusive goals before finalizing any agreements.
  
  
• Quote Collection
  You can create a designated space online (through the event’s page or a hashtag) or physical (inside the venue or at the entrance) for attendees to share a quote, an idea, or a thought that represents their community or that has been said by someone important for them. These quotes can be shared on a screen at the venue or shared digitally before, during, or after the event.
  
  
• Representative Kit
  It's not uncommon to provide attendees with a small kit of specific products during a corporative, incentive, or even social event. If you already had this in mind, you could enhance it by crating a special kit with products created or produced by supportive brands or small businesses run by people from these communities.
  
  
• Inclusive Menu
  Many people believe this is solely a matter of preference, but often, allergies, medication, health issues, or being intolerant to certain products are the primary reasons people cannot eat the food you prepared for an event. To avoid this, offering different menu options could be an excellent choice. Moreover, the people who choose not to consume certain will not feel excluded, which result in a more favorable opinion of your event and even of your company.

• Empathy Activities
  One of the most efficient ways to raise awareness about the needs and discrimination faced by some communities every day is t help participants see the world from another person´s perspective. A brief tour around the venue while blindfolded, a soundproof activity, or a route in a wheelchair will foster a connection among attendees and keep them mindful of the needs of others throughout the day.
  
   At IBTM Americas, you will find different forums and conferences presented by experts in every area, designed to help you learn more about innovations in event planning and MICE news. Sign up now and join us on September 13^th and 14^th at IBTM Americas so you don’t miss out anything.