Marriott International launched initiatives to further neuroinclusivity at its large customer events.
The initiatives support those who have neuro differences, including ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, autism, dyslexia, epilepsy and Tourette Syndrome. The initiatives will be implemented with help from The Neu Project, an initiative from Google’s Experience Institute (Xi) that shares resources to help better accommodate and create a more inclusive experience during meetings and events for neurodivergent attendees.
[Related: The Neu Project Champions More-Neuroinclusive Events]
The following neuroinclusive practices will immediately be incorporated at Marriott-hosted customer meetings and events of 250 people or more:
Quiet rooms: A dedicated room will be available during events for recovery from sensory overwhelm. The rooms are designed to assist the physical, emotional and mental well-being of attendees and will serve as a calming place where guests can manage fatigue, overload or any other sensory needs.
Access to tools and resources: At registration, event attendees will have the opportunity to request various tools to better accommodate their needs, including sensory and fidget toys, noise-canceling ear plugs, sleep masks, sunglasses, printed agendas, printed venue maps and details about loud music, flashing lights or other surprise moments taking place during the event that could impact neurodivergent individuals.
Closed captioning for main stage presentations: Real-time subtitles and captions will be available on-screen during main stage events and conference presentations.
“Grounded in our commitments to innovation and inclusion, Marriott is dedicated to making meetings and events more accessible for everyone,” said Drew Pinto, executive vice president and chief revenue and technology officer for Marriott International. “The Neu Project is a driving force in this space, and we look forward to working jointly with them, along with the neurodivergent community, to deepen our understanding of neurodivergent needs in order to truly welcome all.”
Looking ahead to 2024, Marriott will further its neuroinclusion efforts by listening to the neurodivergent community and continuing its collaboration with The Neu Project.
“The Neu Project was born out of a desire to rethink event experiences post-pandemic, and has since grown into a major initiative that is driving change at events across industries,“ said Megan Henshall, global events strategy at Google. “Marriott understands that creating environments where differing perspectives and experiences can come together boosts creativity, and we have witnessed their passion for increasing inclusivity at meetings and events. We’re excited to continue working with them as we strive to create more inclusive experiences with and for the neurodivergent community.”
Read this next: Megan Henshall on Designing Inclusive Events and Attracting the Next Generation
