COVID Safety

Many events and businesses have dropped masking requirements. However, we also recognize that while transmission rates are down, large gatherings are still a source of potential infection and are unsafe for many. A fully masked event is far safer and more inclusive than a mask-optional one.

To that end, face masks are required in Netroots Nation rooms when not actively eating, drinking or presenting (though presenters are welcome to keep their masks on if they choose).

Why mask?
Masking works! Masking is most effective in reducing airborne illness when everyone wears one. That means that each attendee does their part to keep our community and the spaces we convene safe and healthy. By wearing your mask, you help make Netroots Nation more inclusive and accessible for all.

Masking is a simple act of love—a sign that the person wearing the mask is considering the needs of others, especially the high-risk people who have been most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and who have undergone the most isolation and trauma. Netroots Nation would be incomplete if only people who are insulated from the impacts of COVID were able to attend.

What about offsite events or in the hallways?
We know there may be moments during the conference where some will be unmasked, such as during happy hours or in the hotel hallways. We ask that you mask up during official conference programming to protect the community at large, even if you don’t mask up during your normal activities at home.

If you are offsite or in the hotel’s common spaces and another attendee is wearing a mask, it is courteous to put yours on as well—we should not put the burden of asking on those who are at-risk. To provide another layer of protection, we encourage you to wear a mask during your travels to and around Chicago.

What if I feel ill while at Netroots Nation?
If you experience symptoms of COVID-19 (or other illnesses like the flu) while in Chicago, please stay home or in your hotel room and take a test (antigen or PCR) as soon as possible. If you need a test or extra masks, text the staff at 415-737-6389 and we can bring one to you.

What kind of masks are best?
We recommend N95 or KN95 masks and will have a limited supply for those who need them.

A note about personal space
While many of us are looking forward to seeing and hugging friends, remember that others may not be comfortable with close proximity. So before you hug, look for the red or green button on the other person’s badge as an indicator of their comfort level and be respectful of their boundaries.

This policy was thoughtfully created by Netroots Nation staff and stakeholders and incorporates feedback from community members who are immunocompromised or at-risk.

Safety acknowledgement
By attending Netroots Nation, you agree to comply with all rules and safety guidelines put in place by the event organizers and voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19, waiving all claims and potential claims against the event organizers, and their affiliated companies relating to such risks.

DO NOT attend if either of the following is true:

  • You test positive for COVID-19;
  • You are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 ( a fever of 100.4F or higher, cough, headache, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, pink eye, fatigue or other symptoms associated with COVID-19)