Community Care and Covid-19
“Through the Portal” acknowledges the interconnectedness of our communities and the collective responsibility to protect the most vulnerable among us. COVID-19 mitigation is not just a health protocol; it’s a fundamental expression of solidarity, inclusion, and respect for every person’s health and well-being. These measures ensure that our convening is inclusive and accessible to everyone, especially people with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or compromised immune systems.
Why COVID-19 Mitigation is Important
- Community care emphasizes the inherent value of each person and the importance of taking actions that affirm this value.
- Masking and testing are practical steps that significantly reduce the risk of virus transmission. They protect attendees, particularly those more susceptible to adverse health outcomes.
- Without proper COVID-19 mitigation, individuals at higher risk may be forced to exclude themselves from participation to protect their health, leading to inequitable access to opportunities for engagement, networking, and learning. To transform society, we must create welcoming and safe environments where all participants can engage fully and authentically. Fostering a stronger sense of belonging and community means making a collective effort to protect one another.
We are implementing COVID-19 mitigation measures as part of our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants at the “Through the Portal” convening.
Pre-Arrival Testing Encouraged
We strongly encourage all attendees to take a COVID-19 test before traveling to Chicago. This step is crucial in ensuring your safety and that of other participants.
Masks Indoors
For the safety of all participants, masks are encouraged in all indoor spaces throughout the convening, except when eating and drinking. Please bring your own N-95/KN95 masks, although a limited supply will be available on-site for those who need them.
Accessibility
We are committed to making “Through the Portal” an accessible and inclusive event for everyone. The venue is fully equipped with elevators, ramps, and designated rest areas, and is ADA compliant. This includes accessible stalls, gender-neutral and private restrooms, and dedicated space for breastfeeding or pumping.
We are arranging accessible transportation options, with details to be provided as the event nears. Ample parking is available at the venue, including designated accessible spots, and we will share comprehensive parking details, including costs, before the event. A scent-free policy will be in place to ensure the comfort and safety of all attendees, especially those with chemical sensitivities.
Professional interpreters for Spanish and, if requested during registration, CART and American Sign Language (ASL) will be available to ensure everyone can fully engage in the event. Should you have any additional accessibility needs or questions, please contact us throughtheportal2024@gmail.com.
Hotel & Transportation
Transportation
- General Location
- This conference is happening on or near the main campus of the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) in the City of Chicago just southwest of Downtown Chicago.
- UIC sits among many culturally rich neighborhoods, such as Greektown, South Loop, West Loop, Pilsen, Little Italy, and Chinatown.
- The exact addresses for conference locations will be shared with registrants, after registration and the information will be available on the official conference app.
- Driving Directions
- UIC is located very close to the Jane Byrne Interchange, where the Dan Ryan (I-94), Kennedy (I-90 E), Eisenhower (I-290), and Stevenson (I-55) meet.
- Parking will be available for a special flat fee near conference sites for conference attendees. The exact location and details will be shared with registrants.
- CTA/Public Transit
- UIC’s campus is served by a number of Public Transportation options that are fully ADA compliant: Chicago Transit Authority (e.g. Blue Line, Pink Line, Halsted Bus, Roosevelt Bus), Metra (Halsted Stop between 15th and 18th St), and a number of rideshare scooter and bike options.
Hotel
The hotel designated for conference attendees is in the West Loop within 1 mile of the conference locations. Parking is not included in the group rate. There are paid parking options available near the hotel.
The exact hotel location and booking information is available after Registration and available in the Conference Platform.
Group rate: $240.67/night including taxes and fees, space is limited and only guaranteed through August 23, 2024 be sure to register early and reserve your hotel rooms soon!