With a portfolio of nearly 8,700 properties, Marriott International has introduced neuroinclusive practices at events hosting 250 people or more, aiming to accommodate approximately 15-20% of the world's population with neuro differences, including conditions like ADHD, autism, dyslexia and epilepsy. 

Previewed at Marriott’s Corporate Partnership Customer Conference, THE EXCHANGE, which was held Nov. 28-Dec. 1 at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa, Marriott’s neuroinclusive measures will include dedicated quiet rooms, sensory and fidget toys, noise-canceling earplugs, printed agendas, venue maps and closed captioning for main stage presentations. 

This landmark decision stems from its collaboration with The Neu Project, an initiative by Google’s Experience Institute (Xi) that strives to create a more inclusive experience for neurodivergent attendees during meetings and events. In October, Marriott and The Neu Project implemented a quiet room for attendees at IMEX America in Las Vegas.

Google Global Events Strategy Megan Henshall said, "Marriott understands that creating environments where differing perspectives and experiences can come together boosts creativity. We’re excited to continue working with them to create more inclusive experiences."

Related: GOOGLE LAUNCHES SENSORY EVENT KITS FOR A MORE INCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE

How it works

Effective immediately, neuroinclusive practices will be incorporated at Marriott-hosted customer meetings and events of 250 people or more:

• Quiet Room: A dedicated room will be available during Marriott customer events for recovery from sensory overwhelm, restoration and regulation. Designed to foster the physical, emotional and mental well-being of attendees, the room will serve as a calming retreat where guests can break from the event to manage fatigue, overload and/or sensory needs.
• Tools and Resources: At registration, event attendees will have the opportunity to request various tools to better accommodate their needs, including sensory and fidget toys, noise canceling ear plugs, sleep masks, sunglasses, printed agendas and venue maps, and details about loud music, flashing lights or surprise moments taking place during the event.
• Closed Captioning for Main Stage Presentations: Real-time subtitles and captions will be available on-screen during main stage event and conference presentations.

"Grounded in our commitments to innovation and inclusion, Marriott is dedicated to making meetings and events more accessible for everyone,” said Marriott International Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue and Technology Officer Drew Pinto. “The Neu Project is a driving force in this space, and we look forward to working jointly with them to deepen our understanding of neurodivergent needs."

Looking ahead to 2024, Marriott plans to conduct active listening sessions with the neurodivergent community, working closely with The Neu Project to shape future event content. Marriott offers more than 30 leading brands in 139 countries and territories.