Deaf & Hard-of-Hearing
Creating accessible film experiences for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing attendees since 2014.
Quick Start Guide
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All films include English open captions.
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ASL interpreters are on site for opening remarks, Q&As, and the Festival Reception.
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Assistive listening devices can be checked out at the Front Desk.
Why Accessibility Matters
We share in the effort to end audism and the social isolation of the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing community.
Accessible communication ensures everyone can fully engage with films and live events. Captions, interpretation, and assistive technologies remove barriers and create an inclusive festival experience.
“Interpretation is for hearing people too: otherwise, you can’t access really cool Deaf people, and you’re missing out.”
— Elena MF Ruiz-Williams
How To Prepare For Your Visit
Before You Arrive
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Note that all live events have ASL interpretation.
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Review the Seat Map for ASL viewing areas.
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Familiarize yourself with available services, including open captions and assistive listening devices.
Day of the Festival
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Sit in the designated ASL viewing area for the clearest sight lines to interpreters.
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Ask Ushers or the Front Desk for seating with unobstructed views.
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Request assistive listening devices from the Front Desk.
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Reach out to ASL liaisons or Interpreters for any support during screenings or events.
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
All Films Open Captioned
All films have English open captions displayed on screen for all audiences. No special device needed.
ASL Interpretation
ASL interpreters are on site for all opening remarks, filmmaker Q&As, and the Festival Reception. Seating for ASL visibility is available in the orchestra section near the stage.
We prioritize hiring ASL interpreters who are LBTQIA+ people of color access workers, and those who have a specialization in vocabulary for people of color, queer and trans culture, and social justice.
Assistive Listening Devices
ListenTech devices with headphones and neck loops for Telecoil are available at the Front Desk.
Emergency Support
Emergency lights flash but do not make sound. Ushers are briefed on emergency procedures for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing audience members.
| Resource | Details |
|---|---|
| Open Captions | On-screen captions for dialogue, speaker identification, and sound description. |
| ASL Interpretation | Live sign language interpretation at opening remarks, Q&As, and the Festival Reception. |
| Listening Devices | Enhanced audio via ListenTech devices, available at the Front Desk. |
| Visual Alerts | Flashing emergency lights throughout the venue. |
| CART | Live captions for spoken panels, opening remarks, Q&As, and similar events. |
Key Things to Remember
"Arrive Early"
Pick up assistive listening devices before the screening begins. Let us know if you want to connect with one of the ASL interpreters.
"Request in Advance"
Contact festival@qwocmap.org ahead of time for additional accommodations.
How to Avoid Being an Audist Jerk
LEARN
to say “Hello, my name is” and your name in ASL.
INCLUDE
people in your conversation through an ASL interpreter.
TALK DIRECTLY
to and MAKE EYE CONTACT with the person you’re talking to. Do NOT address the ASL interpreter.
FIND
alternate ways to communicate. Use your phone to text a message, or just write a note.
REMEMBER
that many disabilities are hidden, and that some people who are Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing don’t wear hearing aids.
COMMIT YOURSELF
to ending audism and the social isolation of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing people.
More Guides & Links
Accessibility Guides
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QWOCFF Accessibility Overview
Full overview of accessibility at the festival.
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Transportation
Directions, parking, paratransit, and accessible transit options.
External Resources
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Deaf Queer Resource Center
National resource hub for Deaf LGBTQIA+ community members.
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Bay Area Asian Deaf Association
Community organization for Asian American Deaf individuals in the Bay Area.
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Bay Area Black Deaf Advocates
Advocacy and community for Black Deaf individuals in the Bay Area.
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Rainbow Alliance of the Deaf
Promoting Deaf culture and providing support for the Deaf community.
