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Accessibility and Safer Practices

Consult all available access-related information about the SAT

Inclusive spaces

At the Society for Arts and Technology [SAT], we are committed to providing a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful experience for everyone, regardless of their abilities, identities, or lived realities. Accessibility is an ongoing process. Our space is partially accessible, and we work with experts in inclusion, accessibility, and harm reduction, such as GRIP, to identify current barriers and continuously improve our practices. We also value feedback from our community to help evolve our spaces and events.

Safer spaces

Our teams are trained and sensitized to issues of inclusion and are committed to creating safer environments, particularly for LGBTQ2SIA+ communities and individuals in vulnerable situations. We uphold a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of harassment, discrimination, or harmful behavior. At certain events, harm reduction resources may be available to provide neutral and factual information about substance use, its effects, and ways to reduce associated risks. Calm, low-stimulation rest areas - away from sound and visual intensity - may also be set up to allow attendees to relax in a more soothing environment.

What We Expect from Our Community

To help maintain a safer and more inclusive environment, we ask everyone present to:

  • Respect the consent and boundaries of others;
  • Treat staff, artists, volunteers, and attendees with respect;
  • Contribute to a welcoming and caring atmosphere;
  • If consuming substances, do so with moderation, discretion, responsibility, and respect;
  • Refrain from any form of harassment, discrimination, intimidation, or violence (zero tolerance);
  • Report any situation that may compromise someone’s safety or well-being.

SAT reserves the right to deny entry to or remove any person whose behaviour violates these principles or compromises the safety, comfort, or experience of others present.

Consent and Respect for Boundaries

Consent is at the heart of creating a safer environment. We encourage everyone attending the SAT to respect the physical, emotional, and social boundaries of others. Consent must be freely given, clear, and ongoing. A lack of response or silence does not constitute consent. We also encourage our community to remain attentive to the verbal and non-verbal cues expressed by others and to act respectfully in all interactions.

Sensory environment

Some performances may include loud sounds, strobe lights or intense visual effects, as well as variations in temperature or air quality. Whenever possible, these elements are indicated in advance to allow everyone to make informed choices. Free earplugs are available on site upon request at the reception desk.

Harm Reduction and Well-Being

Depending on the nature of the events, harm reduction initiatives may be implemented to support the well-being of attendees. These resources may take different forms, including:

  • the presence of specialized harm reduction teams or partners;
  • the sharing of neutral and factual information about substance use and ways to reduce associated risks;
  • rest or decompression spaces where attendees can temporarily step away from sensory stimuli such as sound or visuals;
  • unlimited access to free drinking water;
  • support resources or referrals to appropriate services when needed.

Need Help During an Event? How to Report a Situation

If you experience an uncomfortable or concerning situation, or if you witness behaviour that compromises someone’s safety or well-being, we encourage you to speak with a member of our team wearing a fluorescent wristband or a pink T-shirt, or with any member of our staff.

After the event, you can contact us at [email protected] for confidential support, assistance, mediation services, or referrals to external resources.

Accessibility

Access to the venue

  • Main entrance accessible at ground level
  • Easy-to-open doors
  • Located near public transportation (near Saint-Laurent station)

Interior circulation

  • Elevators accessible on all floors
  • Wide, unobstructed corridors (minimum 92 cm width)
  • Clear and readable signage
  • Rest areas available

Services and Facilities

  • Wheelchair-accessible spaces in performance areas, upon request
  • Adapted seating available depending on the  configuration, upon request
  • Service animals are welcome
  • Staff available to provide support and respond to specific needs
  • Accessible washrooms on the ground floor (SAT space) and 2nd floor

Some services are in development or offered depending on the event

  • Adapted reception desk (currently being developed)
  • Quebec Sign Language (LSQ) interpretation, available upon request
  • Live captioning, available upon request
  • Audio description, available upon request

Financial Accessibility

We recognize that access to culture also depends on inclusive financial conditions. Depending on our programming:

  • Some events may be offered free of charge;
  • Reduced rates may be available (including for students, artists, and groups);
  • Occasional initiatives may help facilitate access for people with limited income;
  • People with disabilities may be accompanied at no additional cost (according to current guidelines).
©
Laboratoire vivant (photo: Rachel Germain)

Continuously improving

Accessibility is a shared and evolving responsibility. Your feedback is essential in helping us improve and better meet the needs of our community.
Share your experience

Event experience

Some events may include: high sound levels, strobe lighting or intense visual effects, variations in temperature or air quality. When possible, these elements are communicated in advance so that everyone can make informed decisions. Earplugs are available on request at the reception desk. Free water is also available to support everyone’s well-being.

Financial accessibility

We recognize that access to culture also depends on inclusive financial conditions. Depending on the programming:
- Some free events may be offered.
- Discounted rates may be available (for students, artists and groups).
- Occasional initiatives may support access for low-income individuals.
- People with disabilities may be accompanied at no additional cost, according to current policies.

Prepare your visit

If you have specific needs or would like to plan your visit, we encourage you to contact us in advance. We will do our best to support you.

By phone