Blind & Low Vision
Our commitment to access for Blind and Low Vision members of our community.
Quick Start Guide
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All films include audio description.
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Headphones are available at the Front Desk before screenings.
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Arrive a few minutes early to pick up your headset.
Why Accessibility Matters
Film largely speaks through image and sound, and everyone deserves full access to both.
Every film at QWOCFF is audio described for people who are Blind and Low Vision. Headphones are available at the Front Desk at the start of each screening. We cover the cost of audio description so filmmakers don’t have to — a practice that pushes the film industry toward our standards.
We include image descriptions and text captions so QWOCMAP’s internet presence can be understood by those using screen readers. It also lets colorblind community members understand the nuances in our images.
Our commitment to accessibility ensures that every audience member can fully experience the power and richness of LBTQIA+ BIPOC storytelling.
"We cover the cost of audio description so filmmakers don’t have to"
How To Prepare For Your Visit
Before You Arrive
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Request a tactile map mailed to your home in advance — contact Liz Murray at the Presidio Theatre: lmurray@presidiotheatre.org or (415) 960-3910 ext. 1002.
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Review the Festival Schedule for screening times.
Day of the Festival
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Pick up headphones for audio description at the Front Desk.
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Ask Ushers or the Front Desk for guide dog seating and venue orientation.
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Ushers are briefed on emergency procedures for your safety.
Need extra assistance?
Contact us at festival@qwocmap.org in advance and our team will personally assist you with any accommodations you need.
Accessibility Features
QWOCMAP is working hard to increase accessibility for Blind & Low Vision people year after year. As we learn and improve, please let us know what other needs you might have.
All Films Audio Described
All films are audio-described in English. We provide headphones at the Front Desk at the start of each screening. Arrive a few minutes early to pick up a headset.
Tactile Maps
Tactile maps of the venue are available at the Front Desk. To request a tactile map mailed to your home, contact Liz Murray at the Presidio Theatre: lmurray@presidiotheatre.org or (415) 960-3910 ext. 1002.
Seating for Guide Dogs
QWOCMAP staff, Accessibility Mavens, and venue Event staff can support Blind & Low Vision community members with guidance to front row and barrier free seating.
There is also a guide dog section that is separate from the service animal section. If your guide dog is hypoallergenic and you are fragrance free, you may also sit in the Fragrance Free section. See the Seat Map or ask Ushers or the Front Desk.
Festival Program
The printed program is available to download as a screen-reader-friendly PDF. Screening information is also on the Festival Schedule page.
Emergency Lights
Emergency lights flash but do not make sound. Ushers are briefed on emergency procedures for Blind and Low Vision audience members. In the event of an emergency, all disabled people will exit the theater (house left) first.
Screen Reader Friendly
The QWOCMAP website is screen reader friendly and undergoes an accessibility audit for information, forms, and logins. We provide text captions and image descriptions for all images on our website, social media, email blasts, and more. This allows colorblind community members to understand nuance in images. We also create materials in alternate formats such as large print.
| RESOURCE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Audio Description Headphones | Available at the Front Desk before each screening. |
| Tactile Venue Maps | Available at the Front Desk or mailed in advance. |
| Guide Dog Seating | Separate from service animal seating. Ask Ushers for assistance. |
| Screen-Reader Program | Downloadable PDF on the Festival Schedule page. |
| Emergency Procedures | Ushers trained for Blind and Low Vision needs. Disabled audience members exit first. |
| Advance Accommodations | Contact festival@qwocmap.org or the Presidio Theatre before your visit. |
Key Things to Remember
"Arrive Early"
Get oriented and pick up headphones before the screening begins.
"Request in Advance"
Contact Liz Murray at the Presidio Theatre ahead of time for a tactile map: lmurray@presidiotheatre.org or (415) 960-3910 ext. 1002.
More Guides & Links
Accessibility Guides
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QWOCFF Accessibility Overview
Full overview of accessibility at the festival.
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QWOCFF Transportation
Directions, parking, paratransit, and accessible transit options.
External Resources
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Descriptive Video Works
Audio description services for film and media.
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Lighthouse for the Blind
San Francisco-based services for the Blind and Low Vision community.
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World Health Organization
Fact sheet on vision impairment and blindness.
