Accessible scientific conferences for blind and low vision professionals and researchers: a necessary step for achieving STEMM equity

Scientific conferences and meetings are an integral part of careers in research, medicine, education, and many other professional arenas. Such meetings allow professionals and researchers to share their findings, support expansion of professional networks, enhance professional development, and foster new collaborations. However, barriers throughout the conference experience lead to the exclusion of experts with disabilities, deepening existing inequities in the STEMM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine) workforce. This is especially problematic for STEMM experts with blindness or low vision, who remain significantly under-represented throughout the health and science ecosystem.