Keystone Centre becomes sensory-inclusive facility
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 28/02/2024 (675 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
The Keystone Centre is opening doors for people who have sensory needs that prevent them from attending some events.
Staff at the Keystone are now trained to recognize fans who are experiencing sensory overload and can provide them with items to ease the situation.
The training and certification were provided by KultureCity, an American non-profit organization that promotes awareness and understanding of people with invisible disabilities.
Sensory bags equipped with noise cancelling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads will be available to all guests at the Keystone Centre who may feel overwhelmed by the environment.
Making the Keystone Centre accessible to everyone is the goal, said Keystone CEO and general manager Connie Lawrence.
Families and individuals can now participate in and enjoy live events, entertainment and public spaces, which goes a long way to “modernize the fan experience at the Keystone Centre.”
“Comfort is a fundamental building block in the fan experience, and recognizing the diverse ways that people experience the events we hold makes the Keystone Centre a more effective host venue and puts it at the very forefront of Canadian live event venues when it comes to welcoming fans with diverse sensory experiences,” Lawrence said in a news release.
Individuals with autism, dementia and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can experience sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation. They might also be overwhelmed by the crowds, lights, sounds, smells or other external stimuli at the Keystone Centre, according to a joint news release from both the Keystone and KultureCity.
Before attending an event, people are encouraged to download the KultureCity app. It will list the sensory features available at the specific location with an explanation of what to expect and how to access the items, said Uma Srivastava, executive director of the company.
“Empowering communities through inclusion and innovation, the Keystone Centre is aligned with the same visionary spirit as KultureCity and is championing a world where every individual, regardless of ability, is not just accepted but celebrated for their unique contributions to the tapestry of humanity,” Srivastava said.
Other sports teams and facilities that have completed the sensory inclusive program include Scotiabank Arena, home to the Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Raptors, and BMO Field, where the Toronto Argonauts play.
And in the United States, the NHL’s New Jersey Devils and NBA’s Detroit Pistons are also sensory-inclusive environments.
» The Brandon Sun