Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent the space?
We offer competitive rates for events in the Equality Forum and Conference Center spaces. To obtain a rate quote, please email us directly at equalitycenter@hrc.org.
Do you offer discounts to non-profit groups?
We offer an automatic discount of 20% to non-profit organizations.
Do you have in-house catering?
The Equality Center does not have in-house catering, but we work closely with many local caterers who can meet your food and beverage needs. Please refer to the catering section of this website for a list of suggested caterers and their contact information.
Am I required to use a caterer from your preferred vendor list?
While the Equality Center highly recommends choosing your caterer from our preferred vendors list, you are not required to do so. Full-service catering companies that are not on the preferred vendor list must provide the Equality Center staff with proof of their liability insurance, as well as a bartending license if alcohol will be served at the event. Additionally, we recommend that the caterer schedule a site visit prior to the event date.
May alcohol be served at our event?
Alcohol may be served, provided it is being served by a DC Alcohol and Beverage Regulation Association certified catering or bartending company. The caterer/bartender is required to provide a copy of their alcohol license to our events staff prior to the event. For events during which alcohol will be served, we require a security guard to be on site at customer expense (for a minimum of four hours; we will set this up for you).
Is our event required to end at a certain time?
All events must end by 12:00AM. Bartenders must stop serving alcohol a minimum of 60 minutes before the event's end time.
Do you have overnight accommodations?
While we do not offer on-site overnight accommodations, we do have preferred rates with several area hotels who will meet your overnight stay needs. For more information, please consult your Equality Center event coordinator.
Where can I park when I visit?
The HRC Building does not have on-site parking. However, there is a surface lot adjacent to the building operated by PMI Parking that is open Monday through Friday for a fee. For night and weekend events, our events staff will be happy to help you arrange valet parking for your guests at other garages within walking distance of the Equality Center.
May I play music at my event?
Music may be played at your event; we simply ask that you keep the volume to a reasonable level. External sound systems — sound systems set up on the outside grounds of the HRC Building — are not permitted.
Does the Equality Center offer any audiovisual equipment?
We do offer audiovisual amenities; please refer to the audiovisual section of this website for available amenities.
Does the Equality Center recycle or have green policy?
The HRC Foundation is actively working towards becoming an Energy Star certified building and we encourage patrons of the Equality Center to utilize the provided recycling bins at every event held in the Equality Center. The Human Rights Campaign also employs a Green Committee and is one of only two buildings in the District with a green roof.
