3 trends that worry disability advocates as they look ahead to 2025
I’m Raul Krauthausen the founder of SOZIALHELD*INNEN, an NPO and consultancy from Germany, focussing on Disability Mainstreaming. With this newsletter, I share hand-picked links from around the world.
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Thank you,
Raul
Hand-picked news about inclusion, accessibilty and innovation
3 trends that worry disability advocates as they look ahead to 2025 (statnews.com)
Disability advocates are keeping a close eye on potential Medicaid cuts, increasing use of AI in health care, and politicization of masks.
Jimmy Carter's landmark moment: The birth of the disability rights movement (salon.com)
In 1977, people with disabilities occupied federal buildings across America. It was the beginning of something big
How AI, Security, Inclusion Redefined Government in 2024 (govtech.com)
In a pivotal year, governments enacted AI laws, strengthened defenses, bridged the broadband gap, and prioritized accessible, user-friendly digital services. As 2025 nears, most jurisdictions still lack fully mature AI frameworks.
Black representation in tech matters to special ed students (educatingalllearners.org)
It’s an undisputed fact: The number of K-12 special education students is slowly but steadily rising, having increased significantly over the last decade. Studies also show that, of the nation’s roughly 7.5 million special education students, nearly 2 in 10 are Black.
I, Spastic: The Autobiography of Neil Marcus|Paperback (barnesandnoble.com)
While society called his disability an obstacle and limitation, Neil argued that his "flourishing dystonia" allowed him to think, explore, and create art in a way most people cannot. True to his words, Neil embraced every opportunity to experience life to its fullest, from navigating the Alaskan wilderness in a wheelchair to commanding the spotlight on stage.
Nominations Open for the 2025 Rodney Powell Awards! (pocklington.org.uk)
Guess what? Nominations for the Rodney Powell Awards are now open! These awards celebrate our amazing volunteers who are making a real difference to the lives of blind and partially sighted people (BPS) across the UK.
Designer limbs: top pimped-up prosthetics (disabilityhorizons.com)
From the weird to the wonderful, we’ve been looking for the latest, coolest, most innovative and quirkiest prosthetic limbs. Who said disability can’t be beautiful? Prepare to be amazed, shocked, or awestruck… Prosthetic limbs have come a long way since the 16th century, when ‘the father of prosthetics’ Ambroise Pare started practicing in France.
It Is Not a Mystery - Make Banking Accessible (pocklington.org.uk)
Thomas Pocklington Trust is concerned and disappointed by the recent news about Barclays’ mystery shopper programme, which involves paying customers to pretend to be blind or deaf. Pretending to have disabilities for testing purposes does not capture the true essence of living with a disability and does not accurately represent the barriers our community faces.
Projects: Marlon Mullen (moma.org)
There is no mistaking the work of Marlon Mullen. His vibrant paintings, with their lush surfaces and bold color, expand the long-standing tradition of making art about art.
Bradford project to tell hidden history of disabled mill workers (bbc.com)
The project will work with young people with learning disabilities during Bradford City of Culture.
Deny, defend, depose, detain (syllabusproject.org)
The healthcare industry is class warfare. Its most basic level of care comes with a hefty price tag, and even when that price has been paid, services can be denied, pitting patients against insurance companies and providers in their scramble for profit. Across the political spectrum, many celebrated the recent assassination of the UnitedHealthcare CEO. Politicians, journalists, and authority figures wrung their hands over people endorsing murder, disregarding the ways in which private and public health insurance enable slow death.1 In the time since Luigi Mangione was detained as the suspect, his manifesto, selfies, college experiences, and centrist politics have been a popular point of discussion. Reminiscent of summer 2020’s ‘black square’ phenomenon, or the ‘all eyes on Rafah’ trend of February 2024 that featured a machine vision-generated image of a refugee camp city in Southern Gaza, the focus on Mangione’s personality has overshadowed what people claim to care about. It has obscured the reasons that our material conditions must be changed, the potential that we have to change them, along with many current events that concern the very system—further perpetuating delayed knowledge.
Funding disabled creatives: Takeaways from the Disability Futures Fellowship (blog.candid.org)
Discover best practices for funding disabled creatives from the Disability Futures Fellowship--a collaborative, philanthropic initiative at the forefront of supporting a growing movement to help people with disabilities find success in the arts.
Disability Futures Fellows (fordfoundation.org)
The Ford Foundation and Andrew W. Mellon Foundation announce Disability Futures, an initiative that aims to bring visibility to the work of disabled artists and amplify their voices individually and collectively to advance the cultural landscape.
Why do disability stories have only two endings? (bostonglobe.com)
Once you pick up on the pattern of ‘kill or cure,’ you start to see it everywhere.
The shimmering tapestry of disability art (meer.com)
The SMYH Foundation’s Art Competition for students with developmental disabilities challenges us to explore the intersection of disability, creativity, and the contemporary art world. Hosted at the Kate Oh Gallery on New York’s Upper East Side from January 1 to 5, 2025, this exhibition situates disability art within the intricate cultural framework of high postmodernism. The gallery, a refined and prestigious venue, prompts critical reflection on the aesthetics and philosophical dimensions of art when displayed in an elite setting. What does it signify to present works by artists with unique disabilities in such a culturally powerful space? Moreover, how can postmodern perspectives deepen our understanding of the meanings woven into these creations?
Molinaro, narrowly defeated after one term, discusses next steps (wbfo.org)
Republican Rep. Marc Molinaro lost to Democrat Josh Riley in the November election by less than two points. He said now that he won’t be starting another term in January, his focus will be advocating for issues like disability justice.
Congestion pricing will fund subway station accessibility projects across NYC, MTA says (cbsnews.com)
The MTA says much of the revenue it expects to get from congestion pricing will go towards solving subway station accessibility issues.
Some CT wheelchair users continue to see repair delays despite new law aimed at improving wait time (ctinsider.com)
Wheelchair users across Connecticut are reporting repair delays despite a new law meant to reduce wait times and eliminate prior authorization for repairs.
A push for Oregon's 'right to repair' law to include wheelchairs (publicnewsservice.org)
Oregon's right to repair law, which increases consumers' ability to repair their own electronics, takes effect this week. The law requires manufacturers to provide access to replacement parts, tools, manuals, as well as digital keys needed so people can fix their own devices. Charlie Fisher, state director of the Oregon State Public Interest Research Group, helped author the law.
2025 Fellowship Application (selfadvocacyinfo.org)
A SARTAC Fellowship is a one year self advocacy project. The project should help the fellow grow their own skills as a leader. The project might work on finding new ideas to help solve problems many people have. It must end with a report or products others can use after the project is over. The Fellows will work on their projects about 6 hours each week. SARTAC pays Fellows $5,000 to complete their projects. Six Fellows will be chosen this year.
SUBMISSIONS — Superfest (superfestfilm.org)
Superfest Disability Film Festival is a curated festival in the San Francisco Bay Area. It celebrates cutting-edge cinema that portrays disability culture in all its diverse, complex, and empowering facets. We will celebrate 40 years of Superfest in 2026 and are proud to be the longest-running disability film festival in the world.
Vision Board for 2025 (disabilityculturalcenter.org)
Join justice-centered artist, producer, and facilitator Claudia Alick to create your 2025 vision board. This workshop encourages us to explore beyond New Year’s resolutions and goals. We’ll imagine our future selves and our vibrant world, then create our own version of a vision board to act as our 2025 guide. You can create using collage materials, Pinterest, paper and pencil, or simply your mind! It’s all about your own journey.
Mad Scholars (fireweedcollective.networkforgood.com)
What does—what could—it look like to claim a Mad identity openly as a researcher, an educator, and a member of a broader intellectual community? Melanie Jones and Shayda Kafai, co-editors of Mad Scholars: Reclaiming and Reimagining the Neurodiverse Academy, are facilitating a discussion space and writing workshop to imagine neurodivergent, neuroqueer, disabled, disordered, and Crip worldmaking within academia and beyond. Using prompts, free-writes, and self-exploration, we will explore our book’s journey, chart new paths for liberatory education, and create expansive Mad manifestos for collective access and care.
Disability Joy and Justice Zine Making Workshop (artbma.org)
Join us for a zine-making workshop with art activist and designer Jen White-Johnson. Create your own colorful handmade art book and engage in conversation around acceptance, accessibility, and disability justice. Participants of all ages are welcome!
Bus Users UK celebrates 50 years championing passengers and improving access to transport (bususers.org)
Set up in 1975 by Dr Caroline Cahm MBE, the organisation was formalised in the 1980s during bus deregulation and known as the National Federation of Bus Users. Its complaints handling service was officially launched in 1985 with the backing of the Confederation of Passenger Transport.
John Willis speaks at launch of new Inclusion Network from TP ICAP (power2inspire.org.uk)
Power2Inspire’s John Willis recently had the honour of speaking at TP ICAP’s launch event for their new Disability, Cancer and Neurodivergence Network.
Accessibility habits everyone should live by (myblurredworld.com)
We’re all privy to penning a list of goals at the beginning of a new year, right? If you’re busy crafting yours but find yourself scratching your head wondering what tangible commitments you can make that go beyond the January clichés, let me present to you some accessibility habits.
How I Became Good At Asking For Help (urukalomaja.substack.com)
And why this highly competitive reality is doomed to fail.
Announcing the Winners of the 2024 AppleVis Golden Apples and David Goodwin Award (applevis.com)
AppleVis and Be My Eyes are pleased to announce the winners of the 13th annual AppleVis Golden Apple Awards and the inaugural David Goodwin Award.
Empowerment and Self-Expression through Photography (facebook.com)
Explore the power of storytelling with photographer and accessibility advocate Maayan Ziv, who wants youth living with disabilities to get out there and see the world through a different lens.
What "Guest Room" Really Says About Disability (meriahnichols.com)
“Guest Room” is a 13-minute award-winning film that follows a couple with Down syndrome from the bedroom to the pregnancy test and a short way beyond.
Guest Room (vimeo.com)
A young woman with Down syndrome questions her place in the world.
Barclays suggested ‘mystery shoppers’ could pretend to be blind or deaf (theguardian.com)
Bank faces criticism over adverts saying people testing its services could ‘fabricate’ conditions for £45 per visit
Getting Started with Designing for Web Accessibility (gdg.community.dev)
Virtual Event - As part of the new accessibility webinar series, we kick of the series with an introduction on how to get started with designing for web accessibility.
Why some Bay Area blind people say Waymos are changing their lives (sfchronicle.com)
Some sighted people say taking Waymos feels like a loss of control. Many blind people say the opposite.
Horsham: Woman had eight organs removed in rare cancer treatment (bbc.com)
Horsham's Fay Louise planned her own funeral after doctors found a tumour in her appendix in 2023.
Want to be a radio presenter? (disabilityhorizons.com)
Ever thought about being a radio presenter? Well now might be your chance. Read on to learn about SWINDON 105.5 community radio from founder Shirley Ludford, and how they’re always looking for new talent. My philosophy is that if something feels right, give it a go as you never know where it will lead.
Fannie Lou Hamer To Receive Presidential Medal of Freedom (fannielouhamersamerica.com)
In one of his last official acts, President Joseph R. Biden will award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 recipients, including a posthumous award to civil rights icon Fannie Lou Hamer who died in 1977.
Supernova Momma on Positive Parenting While Black and Autistic (thinkingautismguide.com)
"I have to be realistic about the community I am nurturing in, for my children & for the parents that I help, as a Black autistic woman."
Disability claims skyrocket, raising new puzzle alongside ‘excess mortality’ (insurancenewsnet.com)
Along with a baffling rise in post-pandemic mortality rates, the number of Americans claiming disabilities has skyrocketed since 2020.
Accessibility Is Worth Investing In: Why Hollywood Must Prioritize Disability Inclusion (variety.com)
Actors, writers and directors participated in a conversation presented by Easterseals Southern California, a nonprofit supporting people with disabilities
“I get asked so many questions about blindness being a superpower” (aop.org.uk)
Blind online content creators Lucy Edwards and Seren Jaye spoke to OT about misconceptions, recurring questions, and educating the next generation ahead of World Braille Day 2025
FTC orders AI accessibility startup accessiBe to pay $1M for misleading advertising (techcrunch.com)
The FTC has ordered accessibility startup accessiBe to pay $1 million over allegations of false advertising and misleading product claims.
US to award $306 mln for bird flu monitoring and preparedness (reuters.com)
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said on Friday it would award $306 million in funds to help bird flu monitoring, as the virus spreads in dairy herds and farm workers across the country.
Perkins School for the Blind opens online academy to share expertise with educators (wbur.org)
The online hub launching next year will offer practical courses on how to deliver high-quality instruction to students who are blind or low vision.
California targets ultra-processed foods in new health initiative (reuters.com)
This order follows Gov. Newsom's previous healthy-food initiatives, including soda and caffeine restrictions in schools and a proposed sugar limit on non-dairy milk, set to take effect in 2025.
Scientists Are Racing to Develop a New Bird Flu Vaccine (time.com)
The most promising approach uses mRNA.
HMPV symptoms as China faces new outbreak (newsweek.com)
Symptoms of the virus are similar to that of other respiratory illnesses that are currently circulating throughout the U.S.
Deaf Film Festival (filmfreeway.com)
This is the second Deaf Film Festival hosted in Austin, TX! Our festival aims to screen and showcase films that were created by Deaf filmmakers, or films that incorporate sign language, Deaf culture, or are about deafness.
MIDDLE EAST CRISIS LIVE: Security Council holds emergency meeting on collapse of Gaza health system (news.un.org)
The UN Security Council met on Friday morning in New York to debate the collapse of health services in Gaza. The meeting was called by Algeria, the leading voice for the Arab world on the Council which has just taken the gavel as president for the month of January. Senior official from the World Health Organization (WHO) Rik Peeperkorn briefed ambassadors alongside High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk. App users can follow here.
Debunking the “COVID-19 Autism Risk” (autisticltd.co.uk)
A new news article entitled: COVID pregnancies may have boosted autism risk, study shows outlines the recent research of Dr. Karin Nielsen, a Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Infectious Diseases, UCLA Children’s Hospital.
'Pretty Cripples' and the people turned on by disability (bbc.com)
Emily Yates investigates the world of "devotees" - people sexually aroused by disabled people and their struggles.
10 Things Only Wheelchair Users Would Understand (themobilityresource.com)
When living the life of someone with a disability, you get a very unique perspective of the world and this perspective can only be shared by other people in your very same situation. If you use a wheelchair especially, there are several things that happen, some good, some funny and only someone else in a wheelchair can understand what it's like.
I’m Disabled, but My Body Still Belongs to Me (claimingcrip.blogspot.com)
Where storytelling, culture, and identity collide because disabled isn't a bad thing, it's just one part of the story.
US surgeon general sounds alarm about link between alcohol and cancer (edition.cnn.com)
US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy issued an advisory Friday warning Americans that alcohol consumption can increase their cancer risk and called for an updated health warning label on alcoholic beverages.
5 Ways to Support New School Leaders (educatingalllearners.org)
Structured opportunities for professional learning go a long way to help ensure the long-term success of new administrators.
NeuRx Diaphragm Pacing System (newmobility.com)
A: The NeuRx DPS is a groundbreaking treatment to reduce or eliminate dependence on mechanical ventilation which may significantly improve your quality of life if you have a spinal cord injury. It involves using a small, implanted device to stimulate your diaphragm, the main muscle used for breathing. This can help you breathe more naturally, reducing your reliance on a ventilator, which has an impact on helping restore your sense of smell and taste, your mobility, and overall sense of independence.
Fable: Earn Money From Home as an Accessibility Tester (newmobility.com)
Fable is a platform that provides companies with on-demand access to people with disabilities for research and testing. Researchers run user research and prototype reviews with members of the disability community, empowering companies to build awareness and empathy across their organizations, leading to impactful change. People with disabilities can join Fable’s Community and be paid a competitive rate to test digital products and provide feedback or to respond to surveys.
A Comprehensive Guide to Air Travel for Powered Wheelchair Users (simplyemma.co.uk)
Flying with a powered wheelchair doesn't have to be stressful. This comprehensive guide covers essential tips on navigating airline procedures, battery regulations, assistance codes, and preparing your wheelchair for travel.
How to Be Seen and Heard as a Wheelchair User (newmobility.com)
Surround me with friends in a casual setting and I’ll enjoy myself and my company, with laughter and gab washing over us in a bright, babbling feedback loop. But transplant the same crew to a big, buzzing room for a show or event, where spirits are flowing and the living is large, and I turn into the invisible man. Energy is up, excitement is up, and the party’s blowing the roof off the place, but I’m down here — at butt-level — in my power wheelchair. You can’t hear me, and I can’t hear you.
How autism spectrum disorder made Amanda a poet (disabilityhorizons.com)
Amanda, who never enjoyed writing, found that poetry helped her to understand her diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder three years ago. She's now training to become a life coach to help others.
Creator’s Promises Coming True! (disabilitydaily.substack.com)
Even if just After Seeing is Believing. I did the work; I did the light codes — New Earth, Lion Gate, and Twin Flames. I registered for the Fall Equinox. I unblocked my kundalini. I prayed the rosary while using my Medjugorje shirt for three days straight, as I was supposed to, even if just the thought of it grossed me out.
Innovative Accessibility Practices in Higher Education: Takeaways (abilitynet.org.uk)
At TechShare Pro 2024, AbilityNet's Accessibility Consultant, Lucy Woodcock hosted a panel discussing on Tech Access, gaining innovative accessibility practices in higher education.
Disability Is Human (disability-visibility-newsletter.ghost.io)
Is it just me or is it wild that it's 2025? I'm pleased to offer so many books by disabled writers to you through this newsletter. I can offer 3 Kindle or paperback copies of Disability Is Human: The Vital Power of Accessibility in Everyday Life by Dr. Stephanie Cawthon to anyone in the US. Details below.
Clinician-Associated Trauma Series (chronicpainpartners.com)
A series of articles by Chronic Pain Partners' staff writer Kate Schultz explaining trauma concepts, discussing the clinician-associated trauma study, going deeper into the causes of clinician-associated trauma, and, lastly, suggesting efforts to help prevent and heal from clinician-associated trauma.
Tethered Cord in EDS: A Patient Guide to Symptoms, Diagnostics, Treatments, and Risks (chronicpainpartners.com)
A deeper, more medical look designed for EDS patients to better understand tethered cord and occult tethered cord, the symptoms, diagnostic tests, doctors to see, treatment options, and risks in the hypermobile community of patients. Not medical advice.
Low-Dose Naltrexone: Possible Pain Relief in a Small Package (chronicpainpartners.com)
What EDS patients should know when considering low-dose Naltrexone (LDN) as a chronic pain relief off-label treatment.
It’s Worth a Shot: Prolotherapy, PRP & Regenerative Therapy - A Medical Overview for Curious EDS Patients (chronicpainpartners.com)
Learn about regenerative medicine as an option for EDS patients, including prolotherapy and PRP.
Digesting the Facts: Tackling Gastrointestinal Challenges in EDS (chronicpainpartners.com)
For patients managing EDS-related gastrointestinal issues (GI), the day-to-day can include discomfort, disrupted routines, and the challenge of finding solutions that work for basic life requirements with simple eating and going to the bathroom. This article dips into some of the complexities of GI issues in EDS and hypermobility, providing simple insights and tips for practical diet, nutrition, and symptom management.
EDS and Neurodiversity: The Connection (chronicpainpartners.com)
Recent research indicates a notable correlation (not causation) between Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), particularly the hypermobile type (hEDS), and neurodevelopmental disorders. Studies have found that over 50% of individuals diagnosed with ASD, ADHD, or Tourette syndrome exhibit elevated levels of joint hypermobility, compared to about 20% in the general population. Learn more in our series on neurodivergence starting with this overview, then in future issues as we dive deep into autism and ADHD.
Understanding the EDS Pain Maze (chronicpainpartners.com)
September is Pain Awareness Month. Research shows that 90% of EDS patients endure chronic pain, often creating a relentless shadow impacting every facet of life.
Surviving the Rollercoaster of EDS and Chronic Fatigue: Tips and Tricks for Managing the Boom-and-Bust Cycle (chronicpainpartners.com)
If you're living with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) and the often-accompanying chronic pain and fatigue, you're probably all too familiar with the "boom-and-bust" cycle of overexertion and subsequent physical and mental exhaustion. Here is how to avoid it.
The Six Steps of Proper Pacing (chronicpainpartners.com)
Pacing is important for people with chronic illnesses such as the Ehlers-Danlos syndromes. Christie Cox explains the six steps to successful pacing.
A New Way to Get Along with Fatigue: Set Up Your Personal Fatigue Scale (chronicpainpartners.com)
Stop the boom-and-bust cycle with a fatigue scale plan to be able to stop yourself before you’ve overdone it, because only you know how you might pay for it in a new pain flare cycle.
Website Revamp: Chronic Pain Partners – A New Look for EDS Awareness (chronicpainpartners.com)
As a nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and providing vital resources to the community, we have always strived to offer comprehensive support to patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers. With the recent website overhaul, we're excited to take our mission to the next level.
The curious connection between hypermobility and neurodivergence (sedsconnective.org)
Funded by the MRC, MQ Mental Health Research and Versus Arthritis, I led a team of researchers at Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) on this exciting research project. This year we were able to publish the paper that reported the results, ‘Joint Hypermobility Links Neurodivergence to Dysautonomia and Pain.’
How Rebecca Yarros’ “Fourth Wing” Embodies Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (chronicpainpartners.com)
What if the hero of a bestselling novel shared your struggles—and your strength? Rebecca Yarros’ Fourth Wing, the first book of a fantasy series, follows Violet Sorrengail, a young woman forced to join a brutal dragon rider academy and fighting her way through life-threatening challenges, fierce rivalries, and the unrelenting physical toll of her training. Besides being a dragon rider, Violet also lives with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.
MUSC Health welcomes arrival of its first upright MRI machine, thanks to determined EDS patient (web.musc.edu)
MUSC welcomes arrival of its first upright MRI machine.
Crip Life™ (bizbubble.co.uk)
Crip Life™ is an online magazine that champions a community that is often marganalised and stigmatised; the disabled population that makes up 20% of us. Our aims to overcome disabling social barriers to allow everyone in this community to live the life they want to.
The Creation Of Preventable Harm Impacting On The Disabled Community Is A Political Choice (criplife.co.uk)
Researcher Mo Stewart gives an overview of how the UK’s welfare system has negatively impacted disabled community.
My First Christmas Living With A Disability (criplife.co.uk)
Charlotte Croft – who was diagnosed with FND earlier this year – shares her honest thoughts and feelings on celebrating Christmas and navigating the festive period with a disability for the first time.
Mad Different (lachimusic.com)
In an America hell-bent on assigning beauty, defining "normal" and skewing power in the name of tradition, Mad Different is a four-part acoustic concert series celebrates multi-identity individuality, featuring award-winning artist/activist Lachi and Counter-Cultures co-artists: fighting for justice while finding joy in what makes us most unique.
PBS American Masters Renegades (lachimusic.com)
PBS American Masters Renegades, hosted by Lachi. A series exploring disability, disabled rebels and revolutionaries.
Ministers plan biggest shake-up of adult social care in England for decades (theguardian.com)
But final report on reforms would not emerge until 2028, which health leaders say is kicking crisis ‘into the long grass’
Fixing UK social care will be biggest challenge yet for Louise Casey (theguardian.com)
Troubleshooter for four previous prime ministers is charged with saving troubled national care sector
Take control of your memories, thoughts or pain... It’s really possible! (disabilityhorizons.com)
Spokz People are a non-profit organisation in Staffordshire and the West Midlands providing 1-2-1 and group support to adults with physical disabilities and their families. They provide support with things like relationships, sex, pain and fatigue, anxiety, confidence, low mood and much more.
As pace and severity of human H5N1 cases accelerate, NIH leaders call for more action on bird flu (edition.cnn.com)
Most human cases of bird flu in North America have been mild, a fact that’s underscored by a new study of the first 46 confirmed human H5N1 infections in the United States this year. But the case of an ill Canadian teen stands out because of its severity and because the source of exposure remains a mystery.
Geena Davis Institute (GDI) Gaming Playbook (gdiplaybook.org)
Geena Davis Institute (GDI) Gaming Playbook facilitates unlocking the power of inclusive storytelling and character development in gaming. The GDI Playbook offers research-driven guidance for game developers seeking to create diverse narratives, break stereotypes, and foster authentic representation in the games they create.
Remembering Steve Silberman (thinkingautismguide.com)
NeuroTribes author Steve Silberman centered autistic voices, and was just a mensch. Anne Borden King and Shannon Rosa discuss his legacy.
These Five American Women Are Being Honored on Quarters in 2025 (news.artnet.com)
The U.S. Mint and Smithsonian American Women's History Museum have unveiled the last set of American Women Quarters, to circulate in 2025.
A little-known law to fight disabled poverty just turned 10 (motherjones.com)
The Obama-era ABLE Act is simple, popular, bipartisan—and it works.
What disabled people know about making better New Year’s resolutions (washingtonpost.com)
Many disabled people say their experience of coming to terms with their disability fundamentally shifted the way they approached goal-setting.
I wanted a piercing at Accessorize. What I got was pure ableism (thetimes.com)
Employees ignored me, spoke only to my friend then demanded a doctor’s note because they had ‘doubts’ I could look after myself
How Katz’s Deli’s Legal Woes Started With the 2011 Zagat Guide (nytimes.com)
The Lower East Side institution agreed to make renovations to accommodate people with disabilities, long after a “most popular” restaurants list put it under Justice Department scrutiny.
New Yorkers Deserve More Public Restrooms (nytimes.com)
Just don’t force people to pay to use them.
Guggenheim Offers the Poetry of Motion: Sign Language Verses (nytimes.com)
The museum’s poet in residence for 2024 is putting poetry by deaf and hard-of-hearing artists on display.
Health insurers limit coverage of prosthetic limbs, questioning their medical necessity (cbsnews.com)
Advocates say it is discrimination and are arguing for "insurance fairness" on the grounds that people who have joints surgically replaced typically don't face the same kinds of coverage challenges.
What will 2025 bring for disabled people? (bbc.co.uk)
A look at the year ahead for disabled people and mental health service users
Let's keep it Civil! (visualisetrainingandconsultancy.com)
In one episode our podcast series, we had the privilege of interviewing Hayley, a visually impaired civil servant, about her experiences concerning workplace
Dining in the Dark: A Journey of Empathy Through Daniel's Eyes (visualisetrainingandconsultancy.com)
Dining in the Dark: A Journey of Empathy Through Daniel's Eyes
Celebrating 10 Years of Visualise Training & Consultancy (visualisetrainingandconsultancy.com)
Visualise Training and Consultancy celebrates a decade of dedication, overcoming challenges to empower those with visual impairments and foster inclusivity.
Vienna Airport apologises to Scots 'abandoned' (bbc.com)
A Scottish family were left "stranded" in Vienna without luggage and had to pay for a hotel and replacement flight.
Call for Workshop Proposals - National Council on Independent Living (ncil.org)
The theme of this year’s conference is LEVEL UP: Building Tomorrow Together. It is a powerful reminder that advancing disability rights, justice, and Independent Living requires both individual dedication and collective effort. Together, we can level up our skills, partnerships, and impact, knowing that while the work may never be fully complete, our contributions today are vital steps toward building the better tomorrow we envision.
As pace and severity of human H5N1 cases accelerate, NIH leaders call for more action on bird flu (edition.cnn.com)
Most human cases of bird flu in North America have been mild, a fact that’s underscored by a new study of the first 46 confirmed human H5N1 infections in the United States this year. But the case of an ill Canadian teen stands out because of its severity and because the source of exposure remains a mystery.
‘A Part of Some Other’s Experience’: Dark Victory, Interdependence, and the Limits of ‘Normalcy’ in the 1930s (tmgonline.nl)
TMG Journal for Media History wants to promote research in media history and publish the results of that research. It offers a platform for original research and for contributions that reflect theory formation and methods within media history. TMG Journal for Media History wants to represent media history across the board: contributions may focus on film, radio, TV and the press, but also on new media, photography and printmaking – provided that the historical perspective is central.----------TMG Journal for Media History wil onderzoek op mediahistorisch terrein stimuleren en de resultaten daarvan publiceren. Het biedt een platform voor origineel onderzoek en voor bijdragen die reflecteren op theorievorming en methodes binnen de mediahistoriografie. TMG Journal for Media History wil de mediageschiedenis in de volle breedte representeren: bijdragen kunnen zich richten op film, radio, tv en de pers, maar ook op nieuwe media, fotografie en prentkunst, mits de historische invalshoek centraal staat.
Cancer vaccines will have a pivotal moment in 2025 (economist.com)
After decades of disappointment, efforts to create jabs that can stimulate the immune system to fight cancer are showing renewed promise
For seniors with hoarding disorder, a support group helps with stigma and isolation (npr.org)
Concern is growing about the prevalence of hoarding disorder among seniors, and the lack of access to effective treatments. Some have found coping strategies — and community — in a support group.
Let's Talk About Why My Autistic Son Is Fully Vaccinated (thinkingautismguide.com)
If you have concerns about vaccines and autism, please listen to my story of becoming—but then un-becoming—an anti-vaxxer autism parent.
Stampedes: Why does charity turn deadly in Nigeria? (trtafrika.com)
There have been recurrent deadly stampedes during the distribution of food and other palliatives to less privileged Nigerians, including children.
Amazon.com: Neurodiversity For Dummies eBook : Marble, John, Chabria, Khushboo, Jayaraman, Ranga: Kindle-Shop (amazon.com)
Neurodiversity For Dummies is your essential guide in understanding neurodivergent conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more. This quick and easy guide is perfect for anyone needing to know more about neurodiversity. And that’s all of us—because recent estimates say that 15-20% of the world’s population have some form of neurodivergence. Your life is filled with neurodivergent people that you know and love, whether you realize it yet or not.
‘Bill of the Month’: The Series That Dissects and Slashes Medical Bills (kffhealthnews.org)
Since 2018, readers and listeners sent KFF Health News-NPR’s “Bill of the Month” thousands of questionable bills. Our crowdsourced investigation paved the way for landmark legislation and highlighted cost-saving strategies for all patients.
National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) (ndss.org)
Human Rights Organization for Individuals with Down syndrome
After a long lull, Covid-19 levels are surging in the US (edition.cnn.com)
After a relatively slow start to the respiratory virus season, Covid-19 levels in the United States began ramping up just ahead of the winter holidays.
Drugmakers to raise US prices on over 250 medicines starting Jan. 1 (reuters.com)
Drugmakers plan to raise U.S. prices on at least 250 branded medications including Pfizer COVID-19 treatment Paxlovid, Bristol Myers Squibb's cancer cell therapies and vaccines from France's Sanofi at the start of 2025, according to data analyzed by healthcare research firm 3 Axis Advisors.
I love to travel Europe by train. But here's what a joined-up 21st-century network needs (theguardian.com)
Passenger numbers are rising, but competing with budget airlines will take work on ticket prices, infrastructure and integration, says Guardian Europe columnist María Ramírez
The Work Couch: Disability inclusion at work (Part 1): The lived experience, with Samantha Renke (rpclegal.com)
Welcome to The Work Couch, the podcast series where we explore how your business can navigate today's tricky people challenges and respond to key developments in the ever-evolving world of employment law.
The taboos we still need to bust around disability, sex and dating (glamourmagazine.co.uk)
Disabled people, like you, deserve love, respect and dignity
Perkins School for the Blind Launches Virtual Academy to Bridge Special Education Training Gap (assistivetechnologyblog.com)
Perkins School for the Blind introduces a groundbreaking virtual academy, offering specialized training for educators working with visually impaired students. Learn how this online platform aims to address the critical shortage of trained teachers and transform special education through accessible, practical courses starting January 2024
Dying a “Good” Death: Disability and the Assisted Suicide Debate (disabilityvisibilityproject.com)
Like most disabled people, I am well acquainted with death. Death and dying are constant companions in my own life and the life of disabled community members. When I was first diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome at 19, my geneticist was primarily interested in determining what type of EDS I had. Ruling out vascular EDS was the first thing that we needed to do. Veiled under that comment was the whispered implication “because if you have vascular EDS you might die, so why invest in your care if you’re actively dying?” Pain relief for dislocations, digestive support for gastroparesis, fluid support for orthostatic intolerance – these were less important, the geneticist argued, than determining whether I was dying. In the past decade, medical professionals have been far more interested in tracking my potential death than supporting my daily life.
Thinking Forward (touretteshero.com)
It’s New Years Eve, a time when it’s natural to reflect on the year just gone and on what we’ve achieved. When I was planning what to include in my end-of-year post, everything that came to mind made me to think about things we’re due to do in the year ahead. So as well as looking back over 2024, I’m also going to share some of the exciting things coming up in 2025.
Be Like Boye (wheelieoutthere.blogspot.com)
This has been a hard one to post. I wrote most of it a couple weeks ago, but for some reason, have been putting off posting it.
Avatar Robot Cafe DAWN review - Tokyo Japan (havewheelchairwilltravel.net)
Avatar Robot Cafe DAWN in Tokyo Japan offers employment opportunities for people living with disability & unique dining for diners.
‘We’d be stuck’: alarm as UK’s last braille typewriter repairer ponders retirement (theguardian.com)
Alan Thorpe is Britain’s last certified fixer of the Perkins, a machine vital for teaching blind children to read and write
MacArthur genius Alice Wong on resistance in the new year: ‘Life is a dumpster fire, but I’m not alone’ (theguardian.com)
The activist and ‘disabled oracle’ reflects on a moment that changed her life – and why she finds solace in sci-fi
How the European Accessibility Act is Shaping Tech Leadership: Insights from TechShare Pro 2024 (abilitynet.org.uk)
At TechShare Pro 2024, AbilityNet's Accessibility Consultant, Vayia Malamidou hosted a panel discussing the European Accessibility Act's implications for organisations trading in the EU, emphasising
During the holidays, reports of domestic violence surge. But what if next year could be different? (theguardian.com)
Labour has promised to halve violence against women. As another year of grim statistics beckons, that’s a speck of hope worth grasping, says Guardian columnist Frances Ryan
Decarcerating Disability (upress.umn.edu)
This vital addition to carceral, prison, and disability studies draws important new links between deinstitutionalization and decarceration
Sitting-in for disability rights: The Section 504 protests of the 1970s (americanhistory.si.edu)
For 25 days in April 1977, a group of roughly 150 disability rights activists took over the fourth floor of a federal building in San Francisco.
Statement on the Disabled Published in "Exceptional Parent" (presidency.ucsb.edu)
I will implement the Education for All Handicapped Children Act (Public Law 94—142) as swiftly as possible, to insure that all the children in this nation can receive a high quality public education. I believe that this is an important and worthwhile use of our limited public funds. We must attempt to enable all of our people to reach their full human potential.
The Marathon And On: Disability, Endurance, Aspiration (repository.upenn.edu)
This dissertation explores the ways ableism maintains itself in the latter 20th century U.S. through public dramas of the body staged as rituals of endurance that employ the marathon suffix, the -thon. The project focuses on some of the most legible, popular, and innovative -thons of the past several decades – the telethon, walkathon, danceathon, and hackathon – and uses archival and interview methods to trace the interlocking political agencies that make the -thon a potent cultural nexus. We offer that -thon rituals mediate notions of charity, independence, and pity not simply through speech and representation but through the management of the collective and conspicuously effortful body. In the end, we propose a way of thinking about the breath as an analytic, connecting the valences of the word “aspiration” so that we might imagine other, just aspirations.
How President Jimmy Carter Brought Running to the White House (runnersworld.com)
In 1979, he invited Joan Benoit and Bill Rodgers to a state dinner at the White House and cornered them for private training advice.
The Runner: Phenomenon Of the '70s (washingtonpost.com)
He is white, white collar and well off. He earns about $30,000 a year and probably has a graduate degree. He eats meat, does not smoke and his resting pulse is 52 1/2 beats per minute.
Access Works - Usability and Accessibility Testing (access-works.com)
Access Works offers usability and accessibility testing that connects businesses with users with disabilities.
Embracing Change in AAC Technology (communicationfirst.org)
Tim Jin’s presentation, “Embracing Change in AAC Technology: The Keyboard to My Success,” was first given at the Future of AAC Research Summit on May 14, 2024, in Arlington, Virginia. Tim is a member of CommunicationFIRST’s Board of Directors and is a strong proponent of self-direction, recognizing its crucial role in empowering individuals with disabilities to have greater control over their lives. Mr. Jin is employed by California’s Department of Developmental Disabilities’ Self-Determination Program to advocate for these principles state-wide. His work has been featured by both TEDx and ABILITY Magazine. Mr. Jin graduated from California State University in Long Beach with a degree in speech communication.
Having cancer gave me so many gifts in 2024 (even though it was a very hard time) (carlyfindlay.com.au)
My 2024 was filled with amazing moments a particularly 7.5 weeks of life changing travel; and so many people showed such kindness and generosity supporting me.
Online dating: staying safe and having the best date (disabilityhorizons.com)
The series delves into the world of disability, exploring sex and relationships. Tuppy, an agony aunt known for running Outsiders, a private club geared towards helping disabled individuals find love, shares her thoughts. This time, the focus is on online dating safety.
NHS ombudsman criticises CQC for failing to fully investigate boy’s death (theguardian.com)
Exclusive: Care Quality Commission did not act on evidence casting doubt on care provider’s version of events, ruling says
EmpowHer Expressions (disabilityempowhernetwork.org)
EmpowHer Expressions is an eight-week virtual public speaking and career coaching program for disabled women to improve their public speaking, soft skills, and confidence to achieve career goals and succeed in the working world. The program features weekly 90-minute virtual group classes along with weekly one-on-one mentoring sessions and regular assignments. Participants receive guidance and mentorship from successful disabled women throughout the program. If selected, participants commit to joining our virtual classes every Monday 7pm to 8:30pm ET starting March 10, 2025 and running for the duration of the program.
Reaching every child: Community-level vaccination in El Salvador (unicef.org)
The daily journey of a community health promoter to build resiliency, one vaccination at a time.
Obamacare Sign-Ups Lag After Trump Election, Legal Challenges (kffhealthnews.org)
The number of new and returning enrollees using healthcare.gov — the federal marketplace that serves 31 states — is well below last year’s as of early December. Also, a Biden administration push to give “Dreamers” access to Obamacare coverage and subsidies is facing court challenges.
A Restaurant Is More Than a Workplace for People Often Shunned by Employers (nytimes.com)
A popular restaurant in Buenos Aires is staffed almost entirely by workers with neurological challenges, tapping into often-overlooked talent and harnessing their skills.
Mastering The Conversation Around Advertising & Disability (advertisinganddisability.com)
It seems like in our industry marketers and agencies often clamor to be the first-to-market or the next big thing or want to ride the newest trend where CMO’s and creative directors will pontificate all day long on generalist statements about content being king and that we need to move on from millennials to a younger, hipper audience, but conversations are quieted within the industry when disability is brought into the mix.
How Apple Saved My Life (youtube.com)
Growing up blind, the resources I had to help cope with my visual impairment were quite limited. It wasn't until I learned of Apple's efforts to make their products as accessibility friendly as possible, that I truly was able to perform stronger in school, online, on the streets, and with my art. This is the story of how Apple saved my life at a time when my mental illness was the worse it had ever been.
Snoop Dogg and Dr Dre sample song by London learning disabilities charity (theguardian.com)
Prolific US hip-hop artists have used the track Watermelon Fantasy, created in 2018 by Daylight Studio
Early intervention is vital to end the special needs crisis (theguardian.com)
Letters: The national curriculum isn’t working, say former teachers Pauline Silcock and Celia Roberts. Plus a letter from Coram CEO Dr Carol Homden
Toys Like Me dolls: a good or bad idea? (disabilityhorizons.com)
“Raggy Dolls, Raggy Dolls, dolls like you and me…” the theme to one of my old childhood’s favourite cartoons – ‘Raggy Dolls’ sprang into my head as I heard about ‘Toys Like Me’. Raggy Dolls was a children’s cartoon where the dolls that did not meet the factory’s standards got sent into a recycle section.
Autism was still topical in 2024 (life-with-aspergers.blogspot.com)
A blog about living with Asperger's Syndrome and Parenting Children with Asperger's Syndrome.
And the UK winners of the 2024 awards for appalling customer service are … (theguardian.com)
Reflecting on a year of unfair decisions and shoddy treatment, we put the worst-offending firms on the podium
How Accessible Cycling Helped One Woman Regain Her Independence (criplife.co.uk)
Debbie Cooper Jones has experienced the “sheer joy and freedom” of getting out on the National Cycle Network. An RAF veteran who regained her independence through accessible cycling hopes to inspire others.
Sarah Kuttner über ADHS: „Es ist keine Störung, sondern nur eine Varianz von Mensch“ (editionf.com)
Die Moderatorin Sarah Kuttner gibt im Interview einen offenen und ehrlichen Einblick in ihr Leben mit ADHS. Sie erklärt, warum die Diagnose für sie ein „Game Changer“ war und was sie sich im Diskurs über Neurodivergenz und insbesondere ADHS von der Gesellschaft wünscht.
How ProPublica Missed Crucial Points About ABA Therapy (thinkingautismguide.com)
Why it is so disappointing to see the recent ProPublica feature promoting hefty insurance mandates for Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA).
Employers Press Congress To Cement Health Price Transparency Before Trump’s Return (kffhealthnews.org)
Donald Trump’s first administration advanced rules forcing hospitals and insurers to reveal prices for medical services. Employers don’t want to risk backtracking during Trump’s second administration.
We Can Shine From Institutions to Independence (youtube.com)
A documentary about people with developmental disabilities, how things began for them in institutions and how things have changed for the better.
Barbie Doll Adventures | Barbie Swallows A ‘B’! (youtube.com)
NDSS and Barbie have partnered to bring the newest doll with Down syndrome to life in the Barbie Doll Adventures series on YouTube! We are so excited to see our community represented in this kids content.
Hey Comic Book Writers! Stop “Curing” Our Disabled Heroes! (popcultureuncovered.com)
Over the years, there have been many comic book heroes who are/have been disabled. Here’s the thing, though: as we all know, what dies in comic books (even if it’s the use of a body part), doesn’t always stay “dead”, and it pisses me right off. Let me give you some examples.
How Much Does Our Language Shape Our Thinking? (newyorker.com)
English continues to expand into diverse regions around the world. The question is whether humanity will be homogenized as a result.
Amy of Elijah's Baby Bucket List (youtube.com)
This Thursday, November 21st, we’ll have another of our tabifolk talks live events where Danielle will be interviewing Amy Tarpein, mother to a delightful young boy called Elijah, who has complex medical needs, and also the founder of Elijah's Baby Bucket List - a blog which not only documents the amazing adventures that Elijah and his family have undertaken but also champions the need for greater inclusive travel and the removal of barriers.
Living in New York City with a disability (dw.com)
New Yorker Milagros Franco has been living with a disability since birth. She works for an NGO in Brooklyn that supports people with disabilities, and her journey to work is a daily challenge. We find out what hurdles she faces every day.
DOT’s New Protections for Airline Passengers with Disabilities: What You Need to Know (theworldisaccessible.com)
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has announced groundbreaking protections for airline passengers with disabilities, marking the most significant expansion of rights for this group in decades. Led by Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, the new rules aim to ensure safer, more dignified air travel for millions of Americans who use wheelchairs or other assistive devices. Here’s a breakdown of what this means for passengers and airlines alike.
Travelling with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome: how to make your holidays smooth (disabilityhorizons.com)
Travel with a disability poses its challenges, but it’s far from impossible. Helen York, living with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome that causes chronic pain, shares her best advice on getting ready for a journey and ensuring it flows smoothly.
Axess Lab - Digital accessibility consultants, reviews and development (axesslab.com)
Digital accessibility consultants, reviews and development
Infinite Flow Dance : Advancing Disability Inclusion, One Dance at a Time (infiniteflowdance.org)
Infinite Flow Dance is an award-winning Los Angeles-based professional dance company and nonprofit that employs disabled and nondisabled dancers with diverse identities, with a mission to advance disability inclusion, one dance at a time.
Dating Paraplegics the Ultimate Guide (streetsie.com)
There are many reasons for and against dating paraplegics and wheelchair users. We answer the common and complex questions people have in “Dating Paraplegics the Ultimate Guide”. Some answers may surprise, we cover all you need to know dating wheelchair users in short easy to understand terms.
New ‘disability-forward’ housing in S.F.’s Civic Center pays homage to nearby protest site (sfchronicle.com)
New ‘disability forward’ housing in San Francisco’s Civic Center pays homage to nearby protest site.
Former Montana Health Staffer Rebukes Oversight Rules as a Hospital 'Wish List' (kffhealthnews.org)
The push-pull in Montana reflects a national tension as states try to decide what counts as fair checks on tax-exempt hospitals and industry players weigh in. The debate centers on whether nonprofit hospitals do enough good to earn their charitable status.
'Rollettes' wheelchair dance team promotes inclusion and community (youtube.com)
Wheelchair dance team the “Rollettes,” which aims to empower women from around the globe through a love of dance, held their annual “Rollettes Experience” in Los Angeles.
How disasters and extreme weather events can make housing even more unaffordable (edition.cnn.com)
The larger and more expensive homes that are built after a disaster or extreme weather event underscore how unexpected catastrophes can change the character of areas in short order.
Digital Accessibility Bootcamp (afb.org)
In today’s tech-driven world, the impact of our creations extends far beyond visuals and lines of code. Accessibility is not just a feature; it’s a fundamental right.
Kurdish educator brings Quran to life for deaf Muslims (newarab.com)
This historic achievement grants the deaf community the opportunity to study Islam's holiest text in a way once unimaginable.
We ‘have our head in the sand’: Health experts warn US isn’t reacting fast enough to threat of bird flu (edition.cnn.com)
The US hasn’t learned lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic that it could use to mitigate the threat of pathogens like H5N1 bird flu that keep showing signs of their own pandemic potential, health experts told CNN Friday.
A Message from Theo Braddy: New Beginnings (ncil.org)
This is Theo Braddy, Executive Director of the National Council on Independent Living, bringing you a new message. This one I am calling “New Beginnings”.
Parents on Legal Addiction Meds Face Discrimination in Family Courts (imprintnews.org)
Parents managing addiction under doctor’s orders with methadone or similar medications are often set up for failure in foster care courts.
New Yorkers should mask up as RSV cases spike, health officials say (gothamist.com)
Covering coughs and sneezes and washing your hands can help prevent infections, according to the New York City health department.
US FDA proposes standardized testing to detect asbestos in talc products (edition.cnn.com)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is proposing that cosmetic products containing talc should be tested using standardized methods to detect asbestos, a potential contaminant, according to documents posted on the federal register on Thursday.
For young adults, caregiving isn't just hard. It can shape you for life (npr.org)
Caregiving responsibilities can cut young people off from peers and interrupt their emerging life story. And there's been little research or support directed at this group. That's starting to change.
December 2024/January 2025 (ablenews.com)
Already a subscriber? Log in here. Archived full editions of Able News are available to subscribers. Join our subscriber community today. Subscribe now for unlimited access to all of our content.
Able News Column December 2024 - Ending Solitary Confinement for People with Disabilities in New York State Prisons (dralegal.org)
The topic I’m writing about today is one of critical importance, as the discrimination that disabled people experience in prisons is literally locked away from the rest of society. DRA is working tirelessly on behalf of people with disabilities who are incarcerated, and we are eager to share the story of a case we filed in May of this year on behalf of incarcerated New Yorkers with disabilities against the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (“DOCCS”) and the New York State Office of Mental Health (“OMH”).
Black cancer patients in England less likely to feel supported in hospital, says charity (theguardian.com)
Macmillan Cancer Support criticises unacceptable variations in people’s cancer care
Year In Review: 2024 (disability-visibility-newsletter.ghost.io)
Hi everyone, In July 10 years ago I founded the Disability Visibility Project. I still have trouble believing all that I’ve done and how much has changed. I was happy working as a research associate at UC San Francisco but my side project, collecting oral histories in partnership with
5 practical and stylish Christmas stocking fillers for disabled people (disabilityhorizons.com)
If you're looking for the perfect stocking filler for someone who finds using everyday products tricky, we've got the perfect solutions. Read our round up of five stylish and practical gifts for people with dexterily issues and mobility problems.
Gavin and Stacey’s Christmas special was a joyful reminder that TV can still be a shared experience (theguardian.com)
As people fall out of love with streaming, they’re rediscovering the collective pleasure of ‘event television’, says Guardian columnist Frances Ryan
My Health Service: how can citizens be encouraged and enabled to play a greater role (disabilityhorizons.com)
Daniel Jennings shares a thought provoking article on a new initiative to help people take control and co-ordinate the management of their healthcare. “Harnessing the energy of patients and the public, who have a unique interest in improving their health, is a huge untapped resource. It could make the NHS sustainable once more.”
Blind people excluded from benefits of AI, says charity (theguardian.com)
New president of the Royal Society for Blind Children calls for better design of AI-driven technology
We can be heroes: the inspiring people we met around the world in 2024 (theguardian.com)
From an exuberant mountaineering woman to a boy representing unheard refugees, here are some of the brave individuals that gave us hope
Year In Review: 2024 (disabilityvisibilityproject.com)
In July 10 years ago I founded the Disability Visibility Project. I still have trouble believing all that I’ve done and how much has changed. I was happy working as a research associate at UC San Francisco but my side project, collecting oral histories in partnership with StoryCorps, lit a fire in me. It was so gratifying to encourage the disability community to participate and record their stories and have them archived at the Library of Congress. The idea of leaving something behind for future generations of disabled people about who we are and how we lived was something that gave me a lot of joy and purpose. Thus, the Disability Visibility Project was born. In the early years it was self funded by me and a true labor of love. I didn’t have a detailed plan or clear idea of what it would become and I think that was a gift because it gave me space to explore, experiment, and learn from my mistakes. Fast forward to today and the DVP expanded to a podcast, guest essays by over a hundred disabled writers, two anthologies, a memoir, a newsletter, and a bunch of partnerships with other disabled artists, activists, and scholars. I don’t know what’s in store for the DVP in the next ten years but I know it’ll champion disability culture and address the pressing issues of our time.
Freak. Burden. Worthless…At times I found myself hiding in the closet just to avoid people calling me these names (lilmisty.com)
If you follow me on social media, you probably know that I do a lot of races and meet a lot of great people, including some amazing kids with Spina Bifida…who I adore. I love to travel, set new goals and try new things. Some people say I’m the energizer bunny, but I really just love to stay busy and have fun.
DREDF Celebrates DOT’s Adoption of PROWAG as a Milestone for Accessibility (dredf.org)
Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund
Disabled People Face Renewed Threats to Autonomy After Dobbs Decision (nationalpartnership.org)
Discussions about abortion access and the impact of Dobbs on disabled people are often overlooked. Let's examine the ways that reproductive freedom and access to abortion care are critical to the economic security, health, well-being, dignity, and autonomy of disabled people and their families, particularly disabled women of color.
The family of a Deer Lake First Nation boy who was denied medical transportation coverage because he didn't yet have an Indian status card is calling for changes to the Non-Insured Health Benefits program. It comes as health-care workers and community leaders in northwestern Ontario say problems with the federal program are leading to poor health outcomes for First Nations people.
Endometriosis: Woman with years of pain says symptoms cost her job (bbc.com)
Dee Montague-Coast left her job after colleagues questioned whether her symptoms were fabricated.
Support me in reframing the disability narrative in 2025 (reframingdisability.substack.com)
Readers on why this newsletter matters to them, and ways to support me to help those who want to be inclusive
Naidex 2022: NEW Disability Horizons Marketplace (disabilityhorizons.com)
July 6th and 7th come with something exciting! Naidex returns, and Disability Horizons makes its mark yet again. This time, though, there is a twist. It’s all about the buzz surrounding lifestyle. Don’t miss out!
ONWARD Transcutaneous Stimulation Device Offers Functional Return After SCI (newmobility.com)
People with spinal cord injuries will soon have a new treatment option to improve neurological function and sensation. On Dec. 19, ONWARD Medical announced that it received FDA authorization to market its ARC-EX transcutaneous stimulation device — making it the first transcutaneous stimulation system available for clinical use in the United States.
Thoughts on community at Christmas (carlyfindlay.com.au)
Christmas makes me reflect on the year that’s been. What a year! This year’s been a hard one. I didn’t expect a cancer diagnosis, and certainly not major surgery and the brutality of chemotherapy - the latter causing the worst skin pain I’ve ever had. I didn’t expect to be off work for so long.
2024’s Disability highlights (bbc.co.uk)
Disabled people share their highlights of the year