Proto Himbo EuropeanI'm at an academic conference. A presenter just said "surprise! Workshop!" We are all supposed to discuss some issues and develop some recommendations then switch tables and do it again a few times.
The audience seems mostly cool with this and enthusiastic. I have a lot of difficulty understanding speech in many situations (bc hearing loss) so I made an excuse and left.
I guess this is about disability and accessibility but I don't have even a little criticism for the presenter. There are a lot of experiences that work for many people but not for others. I don't think we should stop providing experiences just because not everyone can benefit equally or participate. I would also have left the room if there was a special hearing amplification system available--i have some in my ears already and don't want to become someone's logistical problem.
Typing this I realized what I do want: to explain my exit to the speaker so he doesn't feel bad.