From 05.08-07.08.2022, we came together as ticket helpers in the inclusion team under the experienced leadership of Darleen (Humbert) before the start of the event and started the attempt to make the PRAERIE accessible with little to no financial resources.
The festival offered so-called participation tickets for people with a class B disabled pass, including free assistance. With a great deal of personnel commitment, we expanded the infrastructure of the site to include wheelchair-accessible paths and charging stations for electric wheelchairs. We also built a barrier-free shower and toilet ourselves.
Nevertheless, the site presented us with a number of challenges. As the number and size of barriers was still very high despite our work, radios were distributed to guests with a participation ticket on request so that we could provide support in case of doubt. This meant that we were also available 24/7 during the event. This was gladly taken advantage of.
The experience as a team of having created access to this great event for a few guests with a participation ticket despite financial hardship and a lack of time inspired us to continue. This gave rise to the desire to tackle the discrepancy between our accessibility requirements and the general conditions at cultural venues.
