Accessibility and Inclusion

The UCLA Tarjan Center promotes accessibility and inclusion across all our projects and programs. Our commitment extends to timely national and state issues, policies, programs, and resources that impact the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

Our materials that are shared with the public:
  • Create awareness about the experiences and needs of people with disabilities
  • Promote understanding of individuals with disabilities
  • Provide accurate information
  • Share evidence-based information from research
  • Showcase positive images of people with disabilities 
  • Celebrate people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds
  • Highlight differences of human experiences

We engage with diverse and underserved communities. We collaborate with other University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDDs). We also work with family resource centers, state and local agencies, universities, colleges, and media outlets that serve individuals with disabilities and their families.


Universal Design and Accessibility Guidelines:

The UCLA Tarjan Center supports individuals with different needs and preferences. We have developed resources, such as Accessibility Guidelines. We provide this information to presenters at our lecture series and community events. At our on-site conferences and events, we ensure accessible facilities and event space configuration. The Center welcomes and accommodates wheelchair users, individuals who are blind or deaf, and others with specific needs.

Multiple Formats and Accessibility Features:

We provide several different formats to ensure that people can use our information and training materials. These include webinar recordings, PowerPoint slides, captioning, and transcripts. We accommodate diverse needs by providing sign language interpreters and large-print materials during our meetings and training sessions.

Plain Language and Sensitivity to Language:

Faculty and Staff at the Tarjan Center enjoy sharing their work with professional and non-professional audiences. We have developed skills in plain language and have begun serving on national and state committees related to plain language, such as the Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) and the Department of Developmental Services (DDS). We also recognize the importance of using sensitive and respectful language. For instance, we acknowledge the growing movement toward identity-first language, particularly among the autistic community. In all of our communications, we aim to be adaptable. We use language that respects the preferences and sensitivities of people with developmental disabilities, while avoiding pejorative or stigmatizing terms.