Dignity Support Services

It all begins with respect…

“It is the belief of this department that everyone, regardless of any disabilities they may have, should be able to attend and enjoy all that IndyFurCon has to offer without hinderance, and with dignity and respect for all attendees. – Ashiera / 2026 D.S.S. Team Lead

Our Purpose

The purpose of this department is to do what we can, within reasonable expectations, to aid people with disabilities in the freedom of movement, understanding, and enjoyment of IndyFurCon, with dignity and respect. We shall do what we can within our abilities to provide ADA compliant convention space, assistance, quiet and safe areas for those who need them, and facilities that are welcoming and free of hinderances or obstacles that may otherwise detract from their experiencing all that IndyFurCon has to offer.

The Roots of DSS. How did it start, and why?

The idea for Dignity Support Services (DSS) originally hatched from a defining moment. At another convention, second-floor elevator access was temporarily disabled to manage crowd control by having all attendees queue on the ground floor. While well-intentioned, the lack of an accessible alternative to the nearby escalators left an attendee in a wheelchair stranded and in tears. That heartbreaking oversight sparked a core belief for our team: every attendee deserves a convention experience full of joy, respect, and zero barriers.

We know that labels like ‘disability support’ can sometimes carry a stigma that makes it hard to reach out for help. That’s why we intentionally focus on dignity. From those who need physical accommodations like wheelchair access, to those who simply need to trot away to a quiet nest to recharge from social anxiety, DSS is here to ensure nobody ever feels like an afterthought or a burden.

Determined to weave this level of care into the very culture of IndyFurCon, Convention Chair Storm Gryphon asked Ashiera Pony to help launch this initiative, knowing Ashiera had faced her own mobility challenges at past conventions. Ashiera eagerly took the reins, blossoming into her role and discovering a lifelong passion for leading the DSS herd. Because many of us on staff—including Storm and Ashiera—navigate our own disabilities, we are deeply spurred by our lived experiences to get this right.
By flocking together and treating every individual with equal care, our DSS family is working hard to ensure everyone can spread their wings and truly belong.

Come fly or trot on over and experience the inclusive magic of IFC in 2026!

The Spirit of D.S.S.

Providing a Safe & Welcoming attendee experience for All

Elevator Access & Safety

We have crafted these guidelines with the welfare of all attendees in mind, ensuring ease of access in returning to hotel rooms. By working together, we can ensure a comfortable experience for all… and keep our elevators working 🙂

Advocacy & Accommodation

Our team is committed to listening to partnering with you to make your IndyFurCon experience the best it can be! We understand each person’s needs are unique, so please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Line Access Accommodation

D.S.S. works to provide those in need the ability to attend programming events without the need physically to wait in line.

Our 2026 D.S.S. Services

Priority Badge Pickup

You’ll be able to pickup your badge without having to physically stand in line waiting.

Seating Priority

You’ll be able to enter key programming panels prior to standard attendees to allow for additional time to find a comfortable seat.

Line Priority

You’ll be able to attend popular events without having to physically stand in line. Either via Priority Access or by utilizing a Time Return Pass.

Other Services

For those with limited vision, a limited number of braille conbooks will be available at the D.S.S. desk.

How to Request Services

If you feel you are in need of our Services, please stop by the D.S.S. Table.
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We will announce our 2026 location prior to con and will be listed on the map!