Wikimedia New York City/COVID-19 notice

Wikimedia NYC is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all attendees while fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for our community. As we continue to navigate the evolving COVID-19 situation, our event policies will be reviewed on a per-event basis, depending on general public health conditions and our ability to implement effective safety measures at specific venues. For any concerns or comments, reach out to info[at]wikimedianyc.org

Guidelines

Vaccination & health

We strongly encourage all participants to be fully vaccinated and up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccinations, including boosters. If you are feeling unwell or exhibiting any symptoms of illness, we ask that you attend remotely. Your health and the health of others is our top priority.

Remote participation

For large or informational sessions, we will offer live streams or recordings for those who cannot attend in person. This will help ensure that those unable to be physically present due to health concerns can still participate and access important content.

Masks & personal space

Respect personal choices regarding masks and social distancing. We will continue to provide high-quality KN95 masks at all events, and we encourage anyone who wishes to wear one to feel comfortable doing so. Please do not ridicule or pressure anyone for their personal decisions around mask-wearing or distancing.

At events where we can designate separate spaces, we may implement a "COVID-conscious zone" with a mask mandate, air filtration, and other safety measures. These spaces will provide a safer environment for those who are more cautious about exposure.

Health & hygiene measures

Air purifiers: We aim to use air purifiers at large indoor events to improve ventilation and help mitigate risks. While evidence on their effectiveness in eliminating very small viral particles is still evolving, they are a widely recommended measure to help improve indoor air quality.

Spacious venues & fresh air: When possible, we will select venues that provide ample space and good airflow, especially for larger events. We will also ensure easy access to outdoor spaces, where participants can take breaks, eat, or socialize without wearing masks.

Event-specific policies

Policy flexibility: Our policies will vary depending on the nature of the event, venue, and the prevailing health conditions. For example, at venues like the Brooklyn Public Library, where specific policies may not be allowed to be enforced, we will adapt accordingly.

Peak periods & flu season: We may adopt stricter COVID-19 policies (e.g., mask mandates, reduced capacity) during periods of heightened risk, such as during peak COVID-19 waves or the flu season.

Sick attendees

If you are feeling unwell, please stay home and participate remotely. This is crucial to protect the health of everyone in attendance. We will remind attendees of this policy before and during each event.