2015/FAQ

What is WikiConference USA?
WikiConference USA is the national conference of Wikipedia contributors and enthusiasts in the United States. The conference will be held on October 9–11 at the National Archives in Washington, DC. WikiConference USA’s program will be devoted to topics concerning the Wikimedia movement in the United States, as well as related topics of free culture and digital rights.

What will happen at the conference?
At any given time, there will be multiple presentations given, which may be lectures, panels, workshops, or interactive demonstrations. If you do not want to attend a scheduled presentation then you can go to the chill lounge and do Wikipedia with other people.

How much does the conference cost?
The registration fee for WikiConference USA is $10. Registration is on Eventbrite.

Who should attend WikiConference USA?
This conference is open to everyone, but is particularly geared for those who have an interest in Wikipedia, the Wikimedia movement, open knowledge, free culture, and/or free culture. A primary goal of the conference is to bring together those with a diversity of experiences and expertises. Any active contributor to a Wikimedia project and/or Wikimedia volunteer in any other capacity, from anywhere in the United States, is considered eligible. Participants in other free knowledge, free software, collaborative and/or educational initiatives are also encouraged to apply.

Do I have to be a Wikipedia editor to attend WikiConference USA?
You do not have to be a Wikipedia editor to attend. New contributors and those not yet contributing, but interested in becoming an editor are as welcome as well.

We invite newcomers to experience The Wikipedia Adventure, a beginner’s introduction to Wikipedia.

Is the conference just for English Wikipedia?
This conference targets Wikipedians in the United States, but anyone is welcome attend, particularly, people interested in Wikipedia/Wikimedia from all over North America.

The conference will be conducted in English, but those editing other language Wikipedias are welcomed to attend.

Do I need to register for the conference in order to attend?
We ask that attendees register in advance to facilitate planning.

Those planning to attend should plan their travel arrangements and accommodations as soon as possible. Even expensive hotels can be sold out months well before a planned visit.

Who can I contact about bringing a large group?
Please contact info@wikimediadc.org if you want to bring a group.

What is the hashtag to be used for social media?
The hashtag for WikiConference USA is: #wikiconusa.

How do I get to the conference venue?
The National Archives is located on Pennsylvania Avenue NW, between 7th and 9th Streets NW. It is recommended you take public transportation, as parking may be hard to come by. The Archives is served by the Archives–Navy Memorial Station on the Green and Yellow Lines; the Archives is also a short walk from the Gallery Place–Chinatown Station on the Red, Green, and Yellow Lines.

Is the Conference venue compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements?
The National Archives is fully ADA compliant. If you have any specific questions or require special accommodations, please contact info@wikimediadc.org.

Will there be food at the conference?
Yes! A light breakfast and a sandwich lunch will be served during the first two days of the conference. Water, coffee, and other beverages will also be served.

Who do I contact for special dietary restrictions?
Please contact info@wikimediadc.org if you have any special dietary restrictions. We will try and accommodate your needs.

Will there be WiFi available at the conference?
Yes.

Will the conference be recorded and livestreamed?
We have plans to record conference sessions.

Is there a code of conduct for the conference?
The Safe Space Policy applies to WikiConference USA. All conference attendees are expected to read and agree to the policy.

Where can I stay near the conference?
We are looking to find an official conference hotel. Stay tuned.

The cheap accommodations are all taken! Where can I find an inexpensive hotel?
Consider visiting the Wikivoyage guide to Washington, D.C. for suggestions.

Scholarships
How do I apply for a scholarship to attend the conference? See the scholarships page.

How do I know if I qualify for a scholarship?
See the scholarships page for more details, but in general, have some history of participation in a Wikimedia project and be ready to describe that to the scholarship committee.

What should I do if I have an idea for a workshop or panel?
Propose it! There are multiple conference tracks and the conference is being organized so that attendees of the conference can present to each other. We invite you to be creative with your proposals and welcome proposals for workshop, panels, case-studies, group editing and tech trainings, and other formats you can think of!