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Accessibility at Convocation
Accessibility at Convocation
Accessibility at Convocation
Western strives to actively address the needs of our graduating students, their guests, and our volunteers who require accommodations to participate in a ceremony, including but not limited to physical disabilities, dexterity/mobility impairments, medical disabilities, sensory disabilities/impairments, neurodiversity, psychological/emotional disabilities, family supports, and gender inclusivity.
We appreciate being advised of any accessibility requirements at least two (2) weeks prior to the ceremony so that we can ensure everyone is able to fully participate in a way that acknowledges equity, inclusiveness, and celebration.
- For guests requiring accessible seating, please arrive at the venue at Gate 1 an hour before the ceremony begins and speak with an Usher; guests will be directed to one of the three accessible seating areas in Canada Life Place.
- For graduates requiring accessibility support, please email convosec@uwo.ca explaining the support you require.
- For volunteers requiring accessible support, please email convosec@uwo.ca explaining the support you require.
Making Accessibility Arrangements
If you are a graduating student who requires accessibility arrangements for your ceremony, please email convosec@uwo.ca. You will be contacted and provided with more information to make the day as smooth as possible for you.
Please note:
- Convocation is a celebration that involves crowds – before, during, and after the ceremony.
- During assembly, graduates can expect speeches and announcements.
- Graduates can expect to stand in line for an extended amount of time as they process into the ceremony area and across the stage. The arrival and assembly portion is on one level; stage access is by stairs with rails or by stage ramp (we appreciate knowing in advance if you plan to use the ramp).
- During the ceremony, attendees can expect a mixture of speeches, live performances, and video presentations. Live captioning and live ASL interpretation will be presented on large screens beside the stage.
- We welcome accompanying assistants or interpreters and encourage a scent-free environment to accommodate all attendees.
If you arrive at your ceremony and determine that you require support, please speak with a volunteer.
- For guests requiring accessible seating, please arrive at the venue at Gate 1 and speak with an Usher; guests will be directed to one of the three accessible seating areas in Canada Life Place.
- A livestream of each ceremony will be available.
- We welcome accompanying assistants or interpreters and encourage a scent-free environment to accommodate all attendees.
- During the ceremony, attendees can expect a mixture of speeches, live performances, and video presentations. Live captioning and live ASL interpretation will be presented on large screens beside the stage.
If you require accessibility accommodations as part of your volunteer responsibilities, please contact the Convocation Team.
Venue Information
Get to know the accessibility features of the venue before you arrive.
- Wheelchair accessible seating for guests is available on various levels of Canada Life Place. Please inform your ticket-taker of your need for accessible seating and someone will assist you to these locations.
- For guests requiring accessible seating, seats in an accessible seating location will be provided for themselves and one companion. Additional guests within the same party will be provided with seats in general guest seating as close as possible to the accessible seating location, often located directly in front.
- There are two public elevators available inside the arena at Gates 1 and 6 that provide access between levels. There is an escalator located near section 109/110.
- Each ceremony is closed captioned and will have an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter. ASL interpretation is provided by live interpreters within the venue and is presented virtually on screens beside the stage.
- Should you require ASL interpretation in another format, contact the Convocation Team.
- Medical First Responders are present for each ceremony and are available to assist guests with accessible needs. Once you arrive at a gate, inform your ticket taker that you require a wheelchair and someone will assist you to your seat and pick you up after the event. You can also check in at the Guest Services Desk at Gate 1 and someone will gladly provide you with wheelchair assistance.
- You can store your mobility device at the Guest Services Desk at Gate 1 during the ceremony to eliminate congestion in the seating areas and hallways.
- All washroom facilities at Canada Life Place are wheelchair accessible. In addition, accessible family services washrooms are located on all levels. Baby changing tables are located in the family services washrooms.
- Drinking fountains are located throughout Canada Life Place and are all wheelchair accessible.
- There are two public elevators available inside the arena at Gates 1 and 6 that provide access between levels. There is an escalator located near section 109/110