For events

When designing events, you will need to consider your programme, event design and audience. Events present a high-visibility opportunity to bring diverse perspectives to the table. Different insights lead to innovative ideas with inclusive outcomes.

When it comes to choosing your moderator, ensure they align with your approach to your topic.

Your moderator should act as your spokesperson by actively encouraging diverse participation, including from the floor, where relevant. Hiring a moderator with a diverse background is a good starting point to lead the way for a richer discussion.

From there, consider the gender balance of your panels. When taking questions following a talk, keep your language gender-neutral to avoid misgendering. For example, say ‘Can I hearfrom the person in the green shirt?’

Consider other guiding questions.

  • Have you reviewed the registration form for an event to ensure that it meets the needs of everyone?
  • Are your panels and speaker compositions gender balanced to cover wider perspectives?
  • Do the questions for the participants cover different grounds and angles for a balanced view on the topic?

Improving an event registration form to have a gender-inclusive tone

Original text

EVENT NAME – Registration form

Please enter your information.

Contact information:

  • Full name:
  • Email address:
  • Phone number:
  • Additional information:
  • Are you bringing any guests? [Yes/No]
  • If yes, please specify the number of guests: [Number of guests]
  • How did you hear about this event? [Options to choose: social media, friend/family, website, other]
  • Any comments?

Terms and conditions: by submitting this form, you agree to abide by the rules and regulations of the event. You also consent to receive communication regarding this event.

Revised text

EVENT NAME – Registration form

Please enter your information.

Contact information:

  • Full name:
  • Pronouns:
  • Email address:
  • Phone number:
  • Additional information:
  • Are you bringing any guests? [Yes/No]
  • If yes, please specify the number of guests: [Number of guests]
  • How did you hear about this event? [Options to choose: social media, friend/family, website, other]
  • Any comments?
  • Any dietary restrictions? [Yes/No]
  • If yes, please specify:
  • Do you require any accommodations for a disability? [Yes/No]
  • If yes, please specify:

Terms and conditions: by submitting this form, you agree to abide by the rules and regulations of the event. You also consent to receive communication regarding this event.

Inclusivity and respect disclaimer: we are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all participants. We expect all attendees to treat each other with respect and kindness, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, religion or any other characteristic. Discrimination or harassment of any kind including sexual harassment will not be tolerated. By attending this event, you agree to uphold these values and contribute to a positive and respectful atmosphere.

Event design

When choosing venues and materials, you should consider accessibility. This could include ramp access, gender-neutral toilets, baby-changing rooms for both parents and other considerations, such as the event programme being accessible for the visually impaired. Some suppliers are more sensitive to these topics than others, so ensure that you have a thorough briefing with them. Consider the following guiding questions.

  • Is your venue accessible to all? Consider providing gender-neutral toilets alongside male and female toilets, as well as toilets for those living with disabilities.
  • Does your event include a session related to gender-equality issues?
  • Is the programme formulated in a gender-inclusive way in how it addresses the reader and topics?
  • Does your event include sign-language interpreters for participants who are deaf or hard of hearing?
  • Are you taking extra steps for people to feel welcome? This can include the option to establish pronouns at the event registration and identify any additional needs that participants may have.