Channel 4 unveils ground-breaking presenting line-up and biggest-ever broadcast plans for Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
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
We wrote a children’s book (in german)
![Book cover of 'Als Ela das All eroberte' depicting a young astronaut floating in space with planets, stars, and a green bird-like creature around. The astronaut is smiling, holding a book titled 'Space Rules', and is seated in a wheelchair. The title and author names, Adina Hermann & Raul Krauthausen, are displayed at the top. The bottom shows the Carlsen publishing house logo. Book cover of 'Als Ela das All eroberte' depicting a young astronaut floating in space with planets, stars, and a green bird-like creature around. The astronaut is smiling, holding a book titled 'Space Rules', and is seated in a wheelchair. The title and author names, Adina Hermann & Raul Krauthausen, are displayed at the top. The bottom shows the Carlsen publishing house logo.](https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F30b1bff0-323c-4709-a835-9711a0fd4334_740x1005.png)
Hand-picked news about inclusion, accessibilty and innovation
Sophie Morgan's Fight to Fly (channel4.com)
Sophie Morgan holds airlines to account for the shocking mistreatment of disabled flyers
Disability Representation: Embracing the First Blind Barbie® (drdiary.blog)
Today, Mattel has taken a remarkable step forward in the world of toys by releasing the first-ever blind Barbie® doll. Developed in collaboration with the American Foundation for the Blind, this new Barbie® is equipped with a cane, movable elbows for proper and comfortable cane usage, sunglasses to address photophobia (light sensitivity), and even slightly wonky eyes to represent various sight loss conditions. Most impressively, the doll was tested by blind and visually impaired children to ensure it met their needs for texture, feel, and fun.
Barbie® Introduces First Blind Barbie Fashionista Doll (afb.org)
Released as part of this year’s global Barbie Fashionistas lineup, Barbie partnered with the American Foundation for the Blind and National Down Syndrome Society to ensure doll designs accurately reflect the community they are designed to represent.
Announcing the 2024 D-30 Disability Impact List #D30DisList During Disability Pride Month (mydiversability.com)
Today, Tuesday, July 23, 2024 — ahead of the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 26, 2024 — Diversability announced the 2024 D-30 Disability Impact List, honoring the accomplishments of 30 disability leaders across 4 countries. Launched in 2020, the D-30 Disability Impact List is Diversability’s annual list honoring 30 disabled leaders globally.
Bath time is JJs favorite & now we found bubbles to add! (facebook.com)
We love being a #BabyDovePartner and especially with their new launch of @babydovecare bubble bath! Bath time is JJs favorite thing & now we found bubbles to add! Best part, It offers long-lasting bubbles made from a hypoallergenic formula. Plus, it’s pediatrician-tested! Adding this one one product to your little one’s bath time and see their face light up!
Evaluating Adobe’s new cloud-based auto-tagging feature for PDF (abilitynet.org.uk)
James Baverstock is a Principal Accessibility Consultant at AbilityNet, specialising in consultancy, training, and auditing for document accessibility. As a certified Accessible Document Specialist (ADS) from the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP), he is well-versed in the latest advancements in the field.
How do disabled people get about or travel? (happysmilestraining.co.uk)
Read about our week, including asking members of the team the question ‘’ How do disabled people get about or travel?’
India allocates ₹1,225 cr for disability affairs in 2024-2025 budget (disabilityinsider.com)
The Indian government has allocated ₹1,225.27 crore to the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities for the fiscal year 2024-2025. This budget aims to enhance the quality of life for persons with disabilities through various initiatives and programs.
Celebrate the Best of British Diversity at the ‘Golden Globes’ of the diversity world (ablemagazine.co.uk)
Hosted by Clare Balding CBE, the National Diversity Awards returns to Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral this October for a celebration of the outstanding achievements of positive role models and community organisations around the UK.
Mask Bans Grow, Threatening Public Health And Immunocompromised People (forbes.com)
Covid-19 cases are rising, yet a number of cities and states are proposing dangerous mask bans, in the misguided belief that it will improve public safety.
Disability rights and experiential use of psychedelics in clinical research and practice (nature.com)
Given the renewed interest in the use of psychedelics for the treatment of mental and substance use disorders in recent decades, there has also been renewed discussion and debate about whether it is necessary or beneficial for those who study and deliver psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) to have had personal experience of using psychedelics. This paper provides a brief history of this debate and brings a disability-rights perspective to the discussion, given increasing efforts to dismantle ableism in medical training, practice, and research. Many psychiatric conditions and psychotropic medications, including ones as commonly prescribed as antidepressants, may preclude one from being able to safely and/or effectively use psychedelics. As such, we argue explicitly mandating or even implying the necessity of experiential training for psychedelic researchers and clinicians can perpetuate ableism in medicine by excluding those who cannot safely use psychedelics because of their personal medical histories. As PAP research and practice rapidly grow, we must ensure the field grows with disability inclusion amongst researchers and clinicians.
Are Workers with a Disability Facing New Opportunities or New Challenges? (stlouisfed.org)
Employment levels for workers with a disability have grown in recent years. What might be driving this?
Half of Employee Disabilities Are Related to Mental Health (shrm.org)
Recent data collected from more than 5 million employees found that people with disabilities make up approximately 7% of the workforce.
ADA Legacy Tour: Get on the Bus! (abilities.com)
The ADA Legacy Tour bus is about halfway through is yearlong trek across the nation, raising awareness and anticipation for the upcoming 25th anniversary of the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act.
In Fierce Loving Memory of Justin Marcus Cooper (cripcrapmedia.com)
A post in memory of Crip Crap podcast producer and host Justin Cooper.
Disability Pride Month Art-Making Program (bbg.org)
Join “Disability Pride, Disability Joy, Exist,” an art-making program that celebrates disability as an integral part of human diversity.
Disability Art Chats (moma.org)
Disability Art Chats provide a community space for folks who identify as disabled, crip, MAD, and/or C/S/X, and those allied with the principles of disability justice. During this free, 90-minute online program, we use a crip perspective to unearth fresh interpretations of MoMA’s collection and foster friendship through creative discussion. Together, we learn from and about the impact of modern artistry on disabled experiences, and vice versa. Each session focuses on a topic specifically connected to a guest speaker. No specialized understanding of art, art history, or crip theory is required.
Sight Loss Charities Open New Get Set Progress Internships Initiative (pocklington.org.uk)
TPT’s successful Get Set Progress Internship Programme in collaboration with The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) is launching 30 new paid internship for blind and partially sighted jobseekers to Get Set Progress.
Disability Art Chats: Crip Pride with Riva Lehrer (moma.org)
Please join us for Disability Art Chats, a community space for folks who identify as disabled, crip, MAD, and/or C/S/X, and those allied with the principles of disability justice. During this free, 90-minute online program, we use a crip perspective to unearth fresh interpretations of MoMA’s collection and foster friendship through creative discussion. No specialized understanding of art, art history, or crip theory is required.
Feisty Disabled Artists (publictheater.org)
Feisty Disabled Artists is a disabled cabaret which builds on the work of shows like How to Dance in Ohio and Ryan J. Haddad’s Dark Disabled Stories.
Medical gaslighting (jboccupationaltherapy.co.uk)
Medical Gaslighting - What is it? How does it impact healthcare? Student Physiotherapist Mike takes a little look at the research.
Open Letter: When Competition Leads to Addiction (publications.ici.umn.edu)
I have a confession: I am what people call a competition junkie. I compete to succeed and want to do well in whatever I am challenged to do, whether it is my career as a researcher/artist/self-advocate, wrestling someone on the mat, or winning at MarioKart and Uno.
Better Help Through DSPs and Peer Mentors (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Westside Regional Center is a private, nonprofit agency dedicated to serving children and adults with developmental disabilities living in the western area of Los Angeles County. As one of the 21 regional centers under the California Department of Developmental Services, Westside Regional Center provides assessment and determination of eligibility for services and early intervention services for at-risk infants and their families. In addition, the center provides lifelong individualized planning and service coordination, along with education and advocacy for the protection of legal, civil and service rights. Other services include developing and purchasing services according to each person’s Individual Program Plan.
Hiding Only Makes It Worse (publications.ici.umn.edu)
When I was 6 years old, I remember finding empty bottles under the sofa. An older member of my family was trying to hide how much he was drinking. He did his best to keep it away from us, but the reality was, the bottles were coming out as we were walking out the door after we would visit.
Airbus and French National Sports Agency Develop Cutting-Edge Equipment for Disabled Athletes Ahead of Paris Paralympics (assistivetechnologyblog.com)
Discover how Airbus and the French National Sports Agency are revolutionizing equipment for disabled athletes, aiming to enhance performance for the Paralympic Games.
When Addiction Strikes Loved Ones (publications.ici.umn.edu)
When I was asked to help develop a curriculum on mental health and substance use disorder (MH/SUD) in people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD), there was no doubt in my mind that I needed to do it. As a person with IDD who works in advocacy, I always am looking for gaps in understanding and support for my community. There is unquestionably a gap in the space of treatment for MH/SUD in the IDD population. Perhaps far more important, however, is the fact that one of the people closest to me is in recovery from alcoholism. This loved one doesn’t have IDD, and they have been sober for, aside from a very short “slip” towards the end of last year, about the last year and a half. I have seen both sides of the journey. I saw this loved one at their absolute lowest, where the abuse of the alcohol turned them into a person I barely recognized. At the same time, I am now seeing the beauty in their recovery, the strength of the human spirit when a person fights the addiction and begins to take their life back. I have also seen other loved ones tragically succumb to their addiction. I take the scourge of addiction extremely seriously and knowing that I had an opportunity to improve the system of support for people with IDD was something I couldn’t possibly miss.
My Autistic Special Interest Became an Addiction. It Also Helped Me Recover (publications.ici.umn.edu)
I discovered running long before I discovered I was autistic. I fell in love with the feeling of freedom, of momentary flight, and of being fully in my body. Wearing my hat, sunglasses, and headphones regardless of the time of day or weather, I engrossed myself in the repetitive strike of my foot against the pavement, my rhythmic breathing, and the pulsing of the music. Repetitive and consistent—an autistic’s dream come true. I turned to running to help me self-regulate. On several occasions, I avoided a meltdown by running as hard as I could for as long as I could. Looking back, it makes a lot of sense. After all, it’s not that different from eloping; I had the same need to run when I became overwhelmed as other autistic kids did. I just had enough wherewithal to put shoes on and not get hit by traffic. But by my junior year of high school, my relationship with running had changed. I got injured, but kept running anyway. It wasn’t until the pain in my shin became intense and continuous—even at rest—that I took a little time off. I never saw a doctor for my injury or had it imaged, but it wouldn’t surprise me if it had been a stress fracture. My senior year, I woke up at 5 a.m. every day to run before school. I very rarely looked forward to it. It had become something I had to do more than something I wanted to do. I got injured again, and again I stubbornly ran through the pain until I couldn’t. All of these are symptoms of exercise addiction, although I didn’t know it at the time.
I'm Not Alone (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Alfred Hodges started coming to the Milieu Center for addiction treatment in 2016 after serving time in a correctional facility after a burglary conviction. Recently, he spoke with Lori Ann Eldridge, one of the founders of the Milieu Center, about his experiences with addiction. The following is an edited transcript of that conversation.
Mending Systems, Breaking Barriers (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Imagine seeking a lifeline in a moment of crisis. You turn to a well-regarded mental health treatment program, only to realize it is not accessible because you have a disability. Too many people are finding themselves in this situation. How could this happen in a system built on the philosophy of health, inclusion, and accessibility? With today's high rates of co-occurring mental illness within the intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) community, how can our systems of care continue to ignore an entire population in crisis? The fields of disability and addiction services must do better.
PIE: Fighting Addiction in the IDD Community (publications.ici.umn.edu)
In the heart of Mississippi, we’re taking much effort to forge a path for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who face the often-overlooked challenge of addiction. The Prevention Includes Everyone (PIE) program, a pioneering initiative under The Arc of Mississippi, is not just an intervention—it's a movement reshaping perceptions and creating inclusive spaces in the realm of addiction prevention and treatment.
Trauma and Disability Addressing Addiction and its Underlying Issues (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Following the death of his mother, a boy with an intellectual disability was left out of grief counseling that his sibling received. A counselor told the boy’s father that counseling wouldn’t be effective due to the disability. And so, the boy suffered in silence, and eventually began using NyQuil to take the pain away. He was eventually able to stop using it, but the pain was still there.
Supporting People in Recovery (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Working as a peer mentor in mental health and substance use disorder projects for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) has been both challenging and rewarding.
Responding to Different Learning Styles in Addiction Treatment (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Vinland National Center is a non-profit, substance use disorder (SUD) program focused on treating individuals with mental health issues, intellectual and other disabilities, and traumatic brain injuries. Our approach has proven beneficial for a wide variety of individuals who can benefit from slower-paced treatment plans that use more repetition than traditional treatments. If clients have struggled to keep up with group material or assignments at other treatment programs, this could prove to be a positive change for them.
Hiding in Plain Sight Excessive Sugar Consumption and IDD (publications.ici.umn.edu)
An alarming number of people consume more sugar daily than is recommended by established guidelines. This is gravely concerning because several research studies have linked excessive sugar consumption to serious behavioral, emotional, cognitive, social, and physical health consequences. While it is different from addictions to alcohol and other drugs, excessive sugar consumption is a habit that should be considered a serious threat to human health and well-being.
A Holistic Approach to Substance Use Treatment (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Spurred by Olmstead v. L.C. (1999) , a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision affirming that people with disabilities have the right to receive services in their community rather than in an institution, California began engaging in community placement practices for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) instead of relying on state developmental centers in the early 2000s. As the number of people admitted to state centers decreased, many of those who remained experienced significant health and behavioral needs, including mental health issues, substance use disorder, criminal justice involvement, or sexual maladaptive behaviors.
Tips for More Accessible Treatment (publications.ici.umn.edu)
This project was made possible by Grant Number 93.959 (CFDA) from the NC Department of Health and Human Services, through funding support from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the SAMHSA or NC DHHS.
Improving Outcomes at the Intersection of Substance Use Disorder and Developmental Disabilities (publications.ici.umn.edu)
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) experience health inequalities compared to the general population, and these inequalities likely leave people with IDD vulnerable to substance use and abuse. Research on substance use disorder (SUD) among people with IDD is limited, and estimates of the prevalence of SUD among people with IDD vary greatly. There are gaps in knowledge about prevention of SUD for people with IDD, best treatment practices, and comorbid mental health conditions commonly seen in individuals with both IDD and SUD. Our team set out to answer these questions and help fill some of these gaps. We have a multi-disciplinary team that consists of researchers and practitioners from the University of North Texas Health Science Center (Fort Worth, Texas), JPS Health Network (Fort Worth, Texas), and UT School of Public Health San Antonio that works alongside healthcare professionals, community members, people with lived experiences of IDD and SUD, and caregivers. Our goal is to conduct research to help ensure people with IDD who experience a substance use disorder receive culturally competent treatment from healthcare professionals adequately trained to work with these comorbid conditions.
Finding the Truth in My Addiction (publications.ici.umn.edu)
I was a late drinker. I didn’t start until my 30s, which is really late, and I never even experimented with alcohol before that. At first it was just having a few drinks while at a bar or up at the cabin. When difficult things started happening, though, I started to notice that alcohol was a really good painkiller. I used it to calm my nerves and try to forget about problems in my relationship with my parents. Over time, my addiction manifested, and it just took off.
alancing Act One Family’s Perspective and Experiences (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Experiencing substance abuse alongside family or friends who are working hard at recovery is challenging under any circumstances. Adding intellectual disability, autism, and a variety of co-occurring mental health issues to the challenges experienced with substance abuse disorder and related support needs is extremely challenging for the person with addiction issues and the people who love them. This came full circle for our family when it became clear that Nathan had an issue with abusing alcohol to resolve his pain and anger. The journey has been hard, dealt many natural consequences for Nathan, and maxed our ability as a family to support him in his community. And to be honest, the timeline gets fuzzy for all of us. It was, and is, a long journey but despite numerous relapses, Nathan has been sober for nearly eight years and we are very happy about that outcome.
Best Practices, Emerging Questions Treating Addiction Among People with IDD (publications.ici.umn.edu)
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) facing addiction confront the same consequences as everyone else, yet treatment systems often struggle to know how to best serve this community. This is especially troubling, as the evidence suggests that the consequences of substance use in this community are greater due to high levels of psychiatric comorbidities (matched with use of prescribed psychotropic medication) and greater challenges accessing appropriate treatment due to ableism and the lack of an evidence-base for treatment. Historical research, as found in a 2017 study by Christos Kouimtsidis and colleagues, often supported the idea that people with IDD were a community to be excluded from traditional psychotherapy due to cognitive differences that impair the ability to learn new information or to generalize that learning. Difficulties identified in the literature relate to the articulation of emotional states, challenges mastering abstract concepts, managing expressive or receptive speech difficulties, and potential delays in processing or retrieving information, according to research done by William Lindsay and colleagues and Marita McCabe and colleagues . Caroline Everington and Solomon M. Fulero note that this community may be more suggestible and display acquiescence bias, for example by changing answers to questions in response to negative feedback. Further, Angela Hassiotis and colleagues identify that people with IDD may also try to mask their challenges in comprehending and following verbal communication by using set phrases that they know are appropriate to the context.
Addiction and Disability What We Know and Need to Know (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Alcohol and drug use is quite common in the United States, yet substance use has health risks and other potential consequences, including death. Opioid overdose is often highlighted in the media, with 81,083 opioid-related deaths in 2023, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention . Yet more than twice that number, 178,000 people, die annually from chronic or acute alcohol use, according to the CDC’s most recent data. In 2022, 48.7 million people aged 12 or older (17.3%) had a substance use disorder, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health , conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a U.S. Health and Human Services agency. About 11% of the U.S. population aged 12 and older has an alcohol use disorder (or addiction to alcohol) and 10% has a drug addiction, SAMHSA data show. People may be addicted to only alcohol or one drug, alcohol and drugs, or multiple drugs.
Mattel introduces Blind Barbie and Black Barbie with Down syndrome (disabilityinsider.com)
Mattel announced on Tuesday, July 23, the addition of a blind Barbie doll and a Black Barbie doll with Down syndrome, created to allow even more children to find a doll that represents them and inspire all children to tell more stories through play.
Queensland failed to act on report into ‘devastating’ experiences of people with disability in justice system (theguardian.com)
Exclusive: Guardian Australia obtained the full, unpublished report, more than a year after it was tabled, via a Right to Information application
‘A positive step forward’: Mattel launches first blind Barbie (theguardian.com)
Toymaker created the doll, which carries a cane, to create a ‘sense of belonging’ for children with vision impairment
EU publishes new guidelines to clarify air passenger rights (disabilityinsider.com)
The Commission is publishing revised interpretative guidelines on air passenger rights that will facilitate compliance with regulations and harmonise enforcement by national bodies. Since 2016, the Commission has been providing guidelines to address common concerns raised by national enforcement bodies, passengers and their associations, and industry representatives. This revision notably takes into account rulings by the Court of Justice since 2016 that clarify certain provisions, allowing for more effective and consistent enforcement of the rules. A new section on massive travel disruptions has also been added.
Sophie Morgan’s Fight to Fly review – the degradation of disabled people is jaw-dropping (theguardian.com)
From the women manhandled out of their wheelchairs to the man forced to drag himself along a plane floor, this searing documentary is packed with horrors that will be painfully familiar to many people with disabilities
Anubha Singhal, an Architect & Universal design professional & Peter Gibson, an Accessibility Knowledge Custodian (axschat.com)
A passionate architect and a nature lover, I am a committed Accessibility & UD professional with a positive attitude & a comprehensive approach to problem solving. I have over 5 years of experience in Interiors and Architecture. As an architect, I am working on the sensitivities of Universal design Accessibility and advocating for the Accessible and Inclusive environments for all including person with disabilities through public education.
Lara Davis & Sarah Bartlett (axschat.com)
Sarah is a freelance media relations consultant and content writer. She has worked as a communicator in the disability sector for 20 years and currently leads Business Disability Forum’s media and press work.
Listeria Outbreak Hits 12 States—Especially New York, Maryland—2 Deaths Reported (forbes.com)
No foods have been recalled as a result of the latest listeria outbreak, though the CDC said most cases have been tied to sliced deli meat.
Advocates urge for more independent living for persons with disabilities in Nevada (disabilityinsider.com)
Disability advocates in Nevada are intensifying their efforts to promote independent living for persons with disabilities. The focus is on enhancing accessible housing and community services, enabling people to live autonomously rather than in institutional settings.
Biden dialed back Covid safety—then got it (motherjones.com)
The president's diagnosis should be a wake-up call: there's still a public health emergency.
New disabled MP pledges to fight for inclusive education, and praises Commons staff (disabilitynewsservice.com)
One of at least three new disabled MPs to be elected to parliament at this month’s general election says she hopes to help address the “depressing and unhappy legacy” left to disabled people by 14 years of Conservative-led governments.
Study reaffirms that masks prevent COVID-19 transmission (wsws.org)
A new study in The Lancet demonstrates that face coverings dramatically reduce the load of SARS-CoV-2 in exhaled breath from infected persons. The reductions reached as high as 98 percent, with variations according to the type of face covering worn.
Uno To Be Colorblind Accessible As Mattel Aims To Adapt 80% Of Its Games (forbes.com)
Being colorblind doesn't change a desire for people to want to play and enjoy games with their loved ones. Mattel's shift shows how values and co-creation can drive success.
CDC report: Cognitive disability tops list of disabilities in US adults (mcknights.com)
Cognitive disability emerged as the most prevalent disability in the United States in 2022, affecting 13.9% of adults. This is according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s annual update to the Disability and Health Data System (DHDS) released last week.
B.C. families with adult special needs children say they have no support from government (globalnews.ca)
Families with special needs children who have aged out of high school say they have been left in the lurch with no support because of funding shortages from the NDP government.
Sighted guides needed to help visually impaired enjoy Lakes (bbc.com)
Lee Hodgson, regularly travels from St Helens, Merseyside, to enjoy the beauty spots of Windermere.
Brittanie Hernandez-Wilson leads the conversation on ableism and intersectionality (mprnews.org)
Brittanie Hernandez-Wilson is equity and justice director for The Arc Minnesota, an organization advocating for the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
In Constant Battle With Insurers, Doctors Reach for a Cudgel: A.I. (nytimes.com)
As health plans increasingly rely on technology to deny treatment, physicians are fighting back with chatbots that synthesize research and make the case.
Celebrating 34 Years of the ADA and Explaining the Latest DOJ Web Accessibility Regulations! (blindinstituteoftechnology.org)
Join us Tuesday, July 30, 2024 at 11:30 MT for a very special webinar! We will be celebrating the 34th year since the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and exploring the latest DOJ regulations! We will be joined by Ken Nakata, former senior DOJ trial attorney to discuss the past and future of web accessibility regulations!
“BITS” of Brilliance Salesforce Org Jam Edition (blindinstituteoftechnology.org)
Join us on July 24, 2024 at 11:00 AM MST for a friendly competition as 6 Salesforce Administrators with disabilities show off and give a live demo of their demo orgs! This is going to be a ton of fun you won't want to miss!
Fall Digital Accessibility Analyst Course (blindinstituteoftechnology.org)
Applications for the fall 2024 Digital Accessibility Analyst course will be opening soon! Stay tuned for important news and updates including close date, open houses, deadlines, and start dates!
Statement on the death of Muhammed Bhar in Gaza (ds-int.org)
Down Syndrome International (DSi) is profoundly shocked and appalled by the tragic death of Muhammed Bhar in Gaza, as reported by his family.
Beyond 6 Seconds: South Asian Mental Health Stories – with Mrinal Gokhale (sites.libsyn.com)
Mrinal Gokhale is an author, speaker and creative consultant based in Wisconsin. She has collaborated with organizations and media outlets such as Brown Girl Magazine, ADDitude Magazine, Medical College of Wisconsin, and more. Her most recent book is titled “Taboo: South Asian Mental Health Stories.” During this episode, Mrinal talks about: What inspired her to write about mental health in South Asian communities How she found people to interview for her book Common mental health themes that she noticed in her interviews How her own mental health journey inspired her writing and advocacy Find out more about Mrinal and her writing on her page. Support or sponsor this podcast at ! *Disclaimer: The views, guidance, opinions, and thoughts expressed in Beyond 6 Seconds episodes are solely mine and/or those of my guests, and do not necessarily represent those of my employer or other organizations.*
I’m obsessed with ocean sounds: ‘I can’t see but I can hear the whole reef, like an orchestra’ (theguardian.com)
Padi’s first South African blind scuba diver describes how her other senses enhance her experience underwater
Danielle Connolly Wins Health Union’s Rookie of the Year for the Social Health Awards (mydiversability.com)
Danielle Connolly (she/her) was recently named the Health Union’s Rookie of the Year for Social Health Awards.
LanzAbility Sensory Programme: Supporting Blind And Visually Impaired People Access Lanzarote (criplife.co.uk)
The team at LanzAbility has started working on a special Sensory Programme for holiday guests who are blind and visually impaired.
Empower your customers with an accessible community choice aggregation website (publicceo.com)
Creating a compelling, accessible website is an essential way for Community Choice Aggregators (CCAs) to engage with the communities they serve. However, maintaining a balance between full transparency and content readability can be challenging, especially in an industry where the CCA model is unfamiliar to most customers. This article explores key strategies to design websites that both comply with regulations and maximize accessibility, allowing your community to access key information at the click of a button.
Ensuring Equal Access: The Growing Need for Wheelchair-Accessible Taxis (ashby.nub.news)
By improving these services, we can promote equality and enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities
Accessible & Inclusive Communication (informalscience.org)
The best practices outlined in this page are borrowed from the REVISE Center’s Inclusive Communication Strategy, developed by the Center’s Communications team. This page seeks to serve as a resource for the informal STEM education field and it is intended to be updated regularly—evolving as we learn. In our commitment to equity and inclusivity, the guiding principles outlined here are intended to serve as a roadmap to guide communication efforts and support fostering an environment where all feel acknowledged, welcomed, and empowered.
Key reasons to prioritise accessibility testing in app development (etedge-insights.com)
In today’s technologically driven landscape, mobile applications have effortlessly integrated into our daily routines, offering convenience, entertainment, and valuable services with the mere tap of a screen. With millions of apps available across various platforms, developers face heavy competition to create innovative and user-friendly applications. However, when it comes to creating feature-rich and visually appealing apps, one essential component is sometimes overlooked: accessibility.
How Google is approaching the European Accessibility Act (EAA) (abilitynet.org.uk)
The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is a crucial European Union (EU) legislation aimed at ensuring products and services are accessible to disabled people. Covering a broad range of items like computers, smartphones, banking services, e-books, and e-commerce platforms, the EAA sets unified accessibility standards across member states.
Accessibility for Startups: How to Gain Competitive Advantage (fintechzoom.com)
In today’s fast-paced business environment, the ability to adapt quickly is crucial. Startups, in particular, need to focus on creating an inclusive and accessible product from the beginning. By prioritizing accessibility, startups can not only comply with legal requirements but also tap into a broader customer base.
Should the town reassess its approach to accessibility? (marbleheadcurrent.org)
Town Administrator Thatcher Kezer emphasized that accessibility compliance with federal and state laws must be a primary consideration from the outset of municipal projects, following a series of oversights for the town and business owners. Most recently, problems with a front ramp delayed the reopening of the Abbot Library after a $10 million renovation.
How you can have your say on improving transit accessibility (metrolinx.com)
Metrolinx hosts its annual Virtual Accessibility Consultation and wants to hear from you.
Enhancing Digital Accessibility: A Guide to Future Trends (cioreview.com)
The potential for digital accessibility in the future is promising, as new technologies and advancements are set to enhance the inclusivity of digital content and services like never before. This article lists some of the future trends in digital accessibility.
3 ways to evaluate the accessibility of your products (fastcompany.com)
It’s time to show your target audience that you truly “get” them by looking at your sales pipeline and products through an accessibility lens.
Ensuring Patient Empathy In Long COVID Coverage (reframingdisability.substack.com)
Hallo, Community! Excited to share that Reframing Disability now has over 500 subscribers! Thanks so much for reading, and offering feedback. Your emails and texts keep me motivated to work on this newsletter. Please keep writing and sharing your thoughts on the content, inclusion, your favourite reads, or anything else - I write back.
TASSCC 2024: Is Accessibility an Obligation or Opportunity? (microassist.com)
Are you attending the TASSCC 2024? Don’t miss our CTO, Hiram Kuykendall, and Tammy Gardiner, CISA – Executive Director of Digital Accessibility at the University of Houston System. They will present on “Is Accessibility an Obligation or Opportunity,” discussing the transformative shift from a reactive to a proactive approach in digital accessibility. This evolution not only addresses compliance with legal standards but also actively seeks to improve support for students and faculty with invisible disabilities like Dyslexia and ADHD. Learn how the University of Houston System is turning challenges into opportunities for better accessibility.
Accessibility: A Computer Weekly Downtime Upload podcast (computerweekly.com)
Suleyman Gokyigit is CIO at Fire, a US organisation which defends the rights of free speech. He also works for crowd-testing company, Applause, where he is involved in accessibility testing.
Accessibility Online (accessibilityonline.org)
How often have you encountered an inaccessible element or space in your daily life? Recognizing that the biggest room in the house is the room for improvement, this presentation will be filled with visual imagery and description of scenarios that demonstrate real-life non-compliant elements and spaces, along with the applicable Standard or Guideline to further knowledge of best design practices. Examples provided in the presentation will cover relevant sections from the Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) Accessibility Standards, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accessibility Standards, and the Public Right-of-Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROWAG).
How tech innovation improves accessibility (charitydigital.org.uk)
We look at current and future developments in digital accessibility
Assisted Travel: Some leaves on the line (accessiblelink.substack.com)
The service quality disabled people experience needs improvement
Making banking accessible to all (abnamro.com)
ABN AMRO believes banking services should be accessible to all. Anyone needing a little extra help is welcome to contact the Help with Banking adviser.
Three Ways P&G Grows Disability Confidence (us.pg.com)
Every July, Disability Pride Month is celebrated to honor the history, achievements, and experiences of people with disabilities (PwD). It is a time to also reaffirm our commitment to a more inclusive and accessible world.
No way to run a country (disabilitydebrief.org)
Ageism and ableism are playing a central role in the US election
Alternative text in action (accessibility.blog.gov.uk)
We want to share some top tips on writing and using alternative text to encourage everyone to add it into their content every day. Our tips can be applied no matter what software or application you’re using.
CU Department of Surgery Adds Focus on Access to its DEI Strategy (news.cuanschutz.edu)
CU Department of Surgery Adds Focus on Access to its DEI Strategy, directed at accessibility for underserved communities and people with disabilities.
Pilot a program to create accessible digital STEM content (thedaily.case.edu)
EquatIO is an equation and text editor that allows users to create accessible digital STEM content by typing, speaking and creating handwritten equations. This is a desktop and mobile app, as well as a Google Chrome extension, that can be used on Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Canvas, and more. Members of the Case Western Reserve University community are invited to participate in a pilot to assess EquatIO’s functionality, usability, accessibility and improvement to digital STEM content.
Utah State University to open center for digital accessibility within education (kiowacountypress.net)
A new center coming to Utah State University this fall will provide accessible digital materials to students with disabilities.
New law requires that all digital content be accessible to people with disabilities (msudenver.edu)
What the new standards mean for MSU Denver and how the University is preparing to ensure compliance.
Tech Researchers Embark on Disability in STEM Study (news.gatech.edu)
Cassie Mitchell and Robert “Trey” Quinn have a few questions they’d like to ask you, and there really are no wrong answers.
Making sport accessible to everyone on campus (timeshighereducation.com)
Fitness and sport programmes are not only for elite athletes. Here, Phil Malatesta offers advice for how to maximise students’ opportunities for movement and physical activity
Digital Accessibility – Captioning and Accessibility (accessibility.mit.edu)
Below are some general accessibility tips to assist getting started with digital accessibility. The tips are based on global industry web standards created by the W3C Web Accessibility Initiative.
Building an Inclusive City: Enhancing Accessibility in NYC's Transit System (cityandstateny.com)
New York City has long been known as a beacon for opportunity, and the lifeblood of that hustle and bustle is our transit system.
EXCLUSIVE: The accessibility paradox – How segregating ‘additional needs’ undermines inclusive design (attoday.co.uk)
In this article, S’unya Dickman outlines why he believes that segregating ‘additional needs’ undermines inclusive design.
Functional Beauty Is Like Amazing Architecture: Code and Theory's Mayo Tobita on Accessibility (lbbonline.com)
Little Black Book, Solutions architect at Code and Theory on her biggest inspirations and why clients should be focussing on accessibility right now
The APAC-BE Certification With Matt H Lescher, Director of Accessibility Services at CCI. (podbean.com)
Matt H Lescher, Director of Accessibility Services at CCI and the APA, joins me to discuss the APAC-BE Certification and the benefits of obtaining your APAC-BE Certification.
The 2024 Disability Equality Index ® Reveals Strong Growth in Leadership and Accessibility but Boardroom Inclusion Lags (morningstar.com)
Disability:IN, the global nonprofit organization driving disability inclusion and equality in business, today unveiled the 2024 Disability Equality Index® report at the Disability:IN Global Conference & Expo, revealing higher year-over-year adoption rates for nearly all reported practices around disability inclusion while also showing the need for more progress in areas such as diversity reporting, supplier diversity spending and boardroom inclusion.
OER and Accessibility AI Hackathon (newamerica.org)
Teams of build4good student interns, educators, developers, designers, and data scientists—used AI to create edtech prototypes to improve accessibility to open educational resources (OER), and better serve students with disabilities.
Welcoming Guests with Disabilities and Ensuring Accessibility, Two Key Accor Priorities Driven Forward by the 2024 Paris Games (hotelnewsresource.com)
380 Accor brand hotels undergoing 'Tourisme & Handicap' certification New solutions introduced to promote augmented accessibility Employees at Accor brand hotels are receiving training to extend a better welcome to disabled guests
Boston Harbor Now Releases “Harborwalk 2.0” Toolkit to Promote Accessible, Resilient Waterfront Design (caughtindot.com)
Boston Harbor Now today released Visualizing Harborwalk 2.0, a toolkit for designing a more resilient and equitable waterfront for Greater Boston. Intended for municipal planners, developers, and resident activists, the guide includes core principles and visual examples that will serve as a compass for Boston Harbor Now advocacy around future waterfront development along the Harborwalk.
Melbourne and Geelong convention centres pave the way for accessibility and inclusion (travelweekly.com.au)
Melbourne Convention and the future Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention Centre take steps towards inclusivity with Accessibility Action Plan.
Disability:IN Announces 2024 Inclusion Awards with Winners in 12 Categories (businesswire.com)
Disability:IN announced the winners of its 2024 Inclusion Awards. Wells Fargo is named Inclusive Business of the Year.
MTA Celebrates Disability Pride Month with Updated Customer Service Tools (new.mta.info)
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is celebrating Disability Pride Month with new customer service tools to better keep customers up to date on the latest status of elevators and escalators throughout the subway system. The new MTA Service Alerts system now includes real-time alerts for elevators and escalators in subway stations and customers can also see real-time status of elevators and escalators on the new MTA app.
Aira Launches Innovative Service to Enhance Accessibility for Live Events (kget.com)
Aira, the leading visual interpreting service for the blind and low vision community, is today announcing the launch of Aira Access Events. The unique service provides professional visual interpreting tailored for events of any kind where organizers aim to expand accessibility.
New kiosk service expands accessibility at Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site (koaa.com)
We know Colorado Springs has so much beautiful nature and sights to take in, but that beauty isn't as accessible to some as it is to others.
Building Accessibility Into Our Mixed Reality Products (about.fb.com)
We recently partnered with people with disabilities and disability advocates to integrate accessibility into our mixed reality technology.
DNR asks for feedback on accessibility at properties statewide (tribtown.com)
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources invites Hoosiers to share their experiences with accessibility at DNR properties across the state.
Saskatoon zoo opens new pier with emphasis on accessibility (thestarphoenix.com)
Charitable donations have helped make a new feature at the Saskatoon zoo accessible to all.
Santander adds British Sign Language to online content (finextra.com)
Banco Santander has rolled out a new digital service for deaf customers in the UK by providing its website in British Sign Language (BSL).
Accessibility is the hot summer topic (islandsocialtrends.ca)
Public input about accessibility to stores and businesses
This Travel Booking Site Just Made It Easier for Travelers With Disabilities to Find Accessible Campsites (travelandleisure.com)
Pitchup.com is the place to go if you need technical details on campground accessibility.
Apple’s Refreshed HomePod Mini Reminds Smart Speakers Are Invaluable Tools For Accessibility (forbes.com)
The hands-free operation matters a lot for accessibility.
New ‘Accessibility Playbook’ Is Designed to Enhance Travel for People with Disabilities (travelagewest.com)
Destinations International (DI) and TravelAbility have jointly released the "Accessibility Playbook," a comprehensive guide aimed at improving travel experiences for people with disabilities. The new toolkit provides destinations and travel businesses with resources to enhance their accessibility and inclusion initiatives.
WhatsApp testing on-device live translation and voice message transcription for Android (businesstoday.in)
These features could significantly enhance user experience, particularly for multilingual communication and accessibility.
Android 15 may be adding an intensity slider for color blindness accessibility mode (phonearena.com)
Android 15is rumored to be adding an intensity slider to its color correction settings to further assist users with color blindness. This is a big deal because hundreds of millions of people have some form of color blindness, and this new feature could make a real difference in their lives.
Hiki CEO Jamil Karriem Talks Expansion, Better Accessibility In New Interview (forbes.com)
In a press release issued on Thursday, the New York-based Hiki announced what it describes as a “pivotal” expansion by “[welcoming] all who identify as neurodivergent.”
Rapid Mobility Introduces Unified RM7 Fare For Accessibility In Two States (businesstoday.com.my)
Rapid Mobility services in Kuala Lumpur and Penang are set to introduce a unified fare of RM7 for two passengers per booking, including one passenger with disabilities (OKU) and their companion, effective from July 15.
8 Best Cars for Aging Retirees Based on Accessibility, Visibility and More (finance.yahoo.com)
As we start to get closer to retirement age, we begin to have different needs. This includes what we look for in terms of transportation for getting around town.
Google Maps’ best accessibility feature just got an upgrade at MWC 2024 (msn.com)
Google Maps can already scan what's around you, and now it'll be able to tell you more about what's there.
Dubai Police launch 'Universal Accessibility Pack' service on website (wam.ae)
The Dubai Police, represented by the People of Determination Empowerment Council, have launched the “Universal Accessibility Pack” service on the Dubai Police website through an innovative platform designed to ensure convenient and user-friendly access to all services for people of determination.
Chronicle guide to enlarging text and enabling audio reading (jewishchronicle.timesofisrael.com)
Reference this guide to learn how to enlarge text and enable audio reading on the online version of our publication.
Vision vinyl stickers make AV faceplates accessible to all (avinteractive.com)
The vinyl stickers can be applied to existing faceplates to ensure that they are locatable by individuals with impaired eyesight, making them compliant with the UK’s disability regulations.
Edmonton startup pilots its accessibility app at KDays (edmonton.taproot.news)
People with impaired mobility may find it easier to move through KDays this year as the 10-day festival partners with Edmonton startup Click&Push Accessibility.
AI-Powered Transcription App Gets More Funding (hearingreview.com)
AI-driven startup Nagish has secured additional funding to further develop its phone transcription tools for the deaf and hard-of-hearing.
The new tech improving accessibility at airports (airport-technology.com)
The proliferation of smartphones in the last decade has led to a boom in new personal digital aides to improve accessibility in airports.
Don't Ignore These Accessibility Features, Every Gamer Can Benefit From Them (howtogeek.com)
Accessibility options are there to help everyone, including you!
Navigating the Accessibility Challenges of LinkedIn Carousels (intopia.digital)
Despite their popularity, LinkedIn carousels present significant accessibility challenges that cannot be overlooked. Carousels allow users to swipe through slides in a document-style format, supporting up to 300 slides. LinkedIn Carousels are graphics that must be uploaded as a PDF. Despite LinkedIn’s announcement to phase out this feature by December 2023, carousels remain active and new ones continue to be added, continuing to complicate accessibility for various users.
Enhancing accessibility with AI (thestandard.com.hk)
Blind esports gamer Mashiro often relies on a companion to get around Tokyo - but he hopes that artificial intelligence, hailed as a promising tool for people with disabilities, can help him travel alone.
Olena Zelenska: State and Society Should Implement Accessibility Together (president.gov.ua)
First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska took part in a meeting of the Council on Human Rights, Gender Equality and Diversity at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
B.C. disability advocates call new federal benefit regulations a major ‘disappointment’ (globalnews.ca)
Two B.C. disability advocates are saying Canada's Disability Benefit Act is too restrictive and is not enough money to help those in need.
The Accessibility Department of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) conducted an assessment visit to the Gosa Rehabilitation Centre and the Karmajiji Skills Acquisition Centre. This visit aimed to evaluate the current state of these facilities and outline proposed renovations to enhance accessibility and functionality for persons with disabilities.
Paris Promised to Make the Olympics Accessible. What Do Disabled Fans Think? (popsugar.com)
Paris said it would make the Olympics universally accessible.
Why Aren’t UNESCO World Heritage Sites More Accessible? (afar.com)
UNESCO World Heritage sites are some of the most popular destinations for travelers. Yet many are inaccessible to disabled travelers, and any alterations to the sites are often resisted.
US Embassy event celebrating July 4th: Embracing inclusion and accessibility (iefimerida.gr)
US Ambassador to Athens George Tsunis emphasized the US Embassy's commitment to embedding diversity, equality, and accessibility into its overarching policies during the July 4th celebration of US National Independence Day held at the Athens Music Hall, on Monday.
Ascot-based wheelchair user criticises lack of accessible housing (bbc.com)
Nerys Pearce's home in Ascot was damaged by a fire, forcing her to look for temporary accommodation.
Channel 4 Continues “Most Accessible Ever” Paralympics Coverage with Allianz and Toyota Idents (lbbonline.com)
Little Black Book, The ads will play alongside a planned series of films profiling athletes competing at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
CAA to gauge UK airports’ progress on accessibility (travelweekly.co.uk)
Association’s latest report due to be released soon
'Housing estates to be more accessible for elderly' (news.rthk.hk)
Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho on Monday spoke at the Accessible for All @ Hong Kong Symposium about making residential areas more accessible for the elderly and disabled people.
Comment: Accessible travel should mean freedom and spontaneity (travelweekly.co.uk)
TV presenter and ‘Spain for All’ ambassador Ade Adepitan calls for a change in attitudes and mindsets towards tourism for people with additional needs
The business potential of accessible tourism (alleyoop.ilsole24ore.com)
Accessible tourism represents a business opportunity for the hospitality industry and cities. Innovations should not always be expensive.
Creating Livable Cities through Inclusive Urban Design: Lessons from Viet Nam and Indonesia for the World (blogs.worldbank.org)
The importance of creating age-ready, universally accessible cities has become an important part of the World Bank's mission. Inclusivity is increasingly being seen as a global public good, especially for those facing aging populations.
Reading Disability Pride plans scrapped over council money issues (bbc.com)
Reading Disability Pride will not be returning in 2024 because of finance and staffing problems.
Lachlan lives with disability. He says the meetings he had to attend to get support were 'degrading' (abc.net.au)
Many people with disability are frustrated with the $1.2 billion program that's supposed to help them find jobs. Now it's getting an overhaul.
Assistive robot could increase mammogram accessibility to more people with disabilities (healthimaging.com)
The robot is expected to be operational and safety checked within the next three years.
Justice Minister Arif Virani has asked the country’s first accessibility commissioner to address recommendations from an external investigation into claims that he mistreated staff at the Canadian Human Rights Commission.
Accessibility commissioner asked to address allegations of mistreatment (hcamag.com)
Report looked into allegations that Michael Gottheil had 'toxic impact' on CHRC workplace
Concordia University - Concordia students create adaptive design projects in collaboration with people with disabilities (educationnewscanada.com)
Students in Florian Grond's Inclusive and Accessible Design (DCART 498) course recently had the chance to develop a variety of user interface/user experience (UI/UX) projects and solutions for people with disabilities.
Govt inks MoU with NGO to create accessible space for disabled people (business-standard.com)
The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities has inked an MoU with a Gujarat-based NGO to advance training programs on accessibility in an effort to create more inclusive spaces for those suffering from disabilities.
Indian Railways transforms accessibility: Lift installations soar by 144% and escalators by 233% (financialexpress.com)
According to a recent tweet from Indian Railways, the number of lifts installed by June 2024 reached 66, a substantial rise from 27 lifts installed by the same period in FY 2023–2024
Opinion: Welcoming people with disabilities into the workforce is a win for everyone (calgaryherald.com)
The world isn’t made for everyone. Be it staircases or bathroom stalls, people with disabilities must constantly grit their teeth just to go out.
Accessibility is a necessity for those with mobility issues (parkinsonsnewstoday.com)
While traveling with her husband, Eric, who has Parkinson's disease, columnist Jill Hammergren has encountered numerous accessibility issues.
12 Outer Cape Hotels Sued for Website Accessibility (provincetownindependent.org)
The ADA requires websites to describe disability accommodations in detail.
Group Also Urges Enactment of Federal Laws to Ensure Web Sites Are Accessible
Minnesota couple living with disabilities builds accessible orphanage and clinic in Liberia (cbsnews.com)
A Twin Cities couple emptied what little savings they had to start a mission and a movement that is saving hundreds of abandoned children.
Her hearing implant was preapproved. But she still received multiple $139,000 bills (npr.org)
Even when patients double-check that their care is covered by insurance, health providers may send them bills as they haggle with insurers over reimbursement. It's stressful and annoying — but legal.
What a geriatric doctor wishes you knew now for healthy aging (edition.cnn.com)
Healthy aging can start at any time, according to a geriatric doctor. Here’s what medical expert Dr. John Batsis recommends everyone start doing now.
'We haven't stopped': The city of Detroit celebrates disability pride (wxyz.com)
City leaders in Detroit gathered to raise the Disability Pride flag downtown to honor the anniversary of the historic Americans with Disabilities Act.
Feds investigate complaints against Alabama’s disability rights watchdog (al.com)
The Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program is under federal review after a series of complaints.
DC parents hope for action amid lawsuit over accessible buses for disabled students (wjla.com)
A hearing was held Thursday for a lawsuit filed by the Children's Law Center aimed at improving school transportation for D.C. students with disabilities.
The quest for more accessibility at Federal Way parks (federalwaymirror.com)
City has been working to meet ADA standards, but still has a long way to go.
I’m a Disabled Traveler. This Is How to Talk About Accessible Travel. (afar.com)
AccessNow founder Maayan Ziv wants the travel industry to better support the large, diverse, underserved audience of disabled travelers. She has some ideas.
House Committee meets to discuss how to make Arkansas more accessible for those with disabilities (kark.com)
A House Committee at the Arkansas State Capitol heard from multiple state departments on what they’re trying to improve under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
How to... Create a Feedback Loop with Disabled Customers (accessiblelink.substack.com)
Engage, listen, act and inform.
Disability as a Path to Forgiveness (gaelynnlea.substack.com)
Pour yourself a cup of coffee and take a Sunday afternoon deep dive on the nature of spirit, disability, and forgiveness with me!
The Disabled Audio-Visual Workers Network Launches at DFM to Widespread Industry Support (thisability.co.za)
The Durban FilmMart hosted the highly anticipated launch of DAWN, the Disabled Audio-Visual Workers Network. The event, held at the Elangeni Hotel in Durban, brought together industry professionals who pledged their solidarity and excitement to include disability narratives in the stories they tell.
I Was Diagnosed With Autism in My 40s. It Gave Me Answers. (thecut.com)
By 43, Mary HK Choi had come up with many explanations for her strangeness around other people. Was it something else all along?
47 (youtube.com)
Inspired by the personal journey of a boy with Down Syndrome.
While I Walk Again? (quirkyquad.com)
Surprisingly, or perhaps not, I am often approached by strangers and asked if I will ever walk again? Or, I’m told I will walk again if I just work harder or pray. If we are just talking science here for a minute … I think it’s important to unpack what actually causes paralysis when an individual experiences a physically traumatic event damaging the spinal cord.
Deafness, bullies haven't stood in her way: S.I. woman leads Sanitation Dept. boxing team (silive.com)
Rossville resident Andrea Moore wants her team to become more involved in the community.
What level/type of Autism do you have? (happysmilestraining.co.uk)
Read about our week, including asking members of the team to answer the question ‘What level/type of Autism do you have?’
What are your reasonable adjustments for hospital appointments? (happysmilestraining.co.uk)
Read about our week, including asking the team the question ‘What are your reasonable adjustments for hospital appointments?’
All-Terrain Track Chairs (dnr.state.mn.us)
Information about the all-terrain, electric powered track chairs available for use in several Minnesota state parks.
Disability organisations facing redundancies as community prepares for royal commission and NDIS changes (abc.net.au)
Disability groups say federal budget funding cuts will leave them less able to support vulnerable Australians as the government rolls out widespread changes to services and supports.
Low wages for group home caregivers are hurting disabled Texans (dallasnews.com)
The state raised the base rate to $10.60 last year, but care providers are struggling.
Celebrating Disability Pride Month with Partners (respectability.org)
Shining a spotlight on Wells Fargo, which has been working hard to advance disability inclusion both inside their organization and by partnering with organizations like ours.
A Conversation between Disability Activists (youtube.com)
In this video, our new intern Francesca meets with our former member Frank to talk about advocating for disability rights in our key event, the Freedom Drive.
Debrief on the European Disability Cards (youtube.com)
The European Parliament has adopted the proposal for a directive on the European Disability Card. Later this year, the EU Council will cast its vote too. Since both legislative chambers agreed on a joint text in February, adoption is just a formality. ENIL has been involved in the discussions from the start and advocated for an ambitious Disability Card. Now it is time to evaluate.
Symposium on Strength and Solidarity for Human Rights (strengthandsolidarity.org)
A multi-year project to provoke new initiatives across the field of human rights to build organizational strength and increase mutual solidarity.
Reasonable accommodation at work - Guidelines and good practices (ec.europa.eu)
These guidelines provide information, practical examples and references to help employers meet this requirement. It has been prepared with the help of the members of the Disability Platform and social partners who provided not only suggestions but also examples of good practices. The guidelines could serve as a valuable resource for adjusting workplace practices to better support the general workforce, and to create a more inclusive and accommodating work environment for all employees, irrespective of their abilities.
Colleen Allen recognized as Disability Pride Month Game Changers honoree (nhl.com)
President and CEO of Autism Alliance of Michigan helping lead efforts to raise expectations and expand opportunities for people touched by autism.
Easterseals launches new national campaign for Disability Pride Month (spectrumnews1.com)
According to the CDC, a quarter of all U.S. residents have a disability
Accessible Travel to Lancaster (discoverlancaster.com)
Find a comprehensive list of accessible attractions like Dutch Wonderland, Kitchen Kettle Village, and Fulton Theater as well as local resources, and more travel tips for adventurers of varying abilities.
Free PA Dutch Country Travel Guide (discoverlancaster.com)
Request your free PA Dutch Country Travel Guide online. Our Pennsylvania Visitor Guide covers the best places to stay, things to do and places to eat when visiting Amish Country in Lancaster, PA.
Lancaster County Visitor Services (discoverlancaster.com)
Let one of our friendly travel consultants assist you in planning your trip to Lancaster County. Our visitor services can point you toward the best dining and lodging options as well as offer information on attractions, upcoming events, and more.
Sensory-Friendly Restaurants in Surfside Beach (visitmyrtlebeach.com)
Surfside Beach was the first town in the nation to become autism certified. Autism certification, obtained through Champion Autism Network (CAN), means restaurants, first responders and other services have been taught how to help autism families and welcome them to their establishments. There are numerous restaurants in Surfside Beach that offer special discounts or benefits to Autism Travel Club card members. Autism Travel Club cards are available to any family that is impacted by autism. Visit CAN’s website to get yours or pick one up at the chamber of commerce in Myrtle Beach.
Accessible Activities & Things to Do in Vancouver, WA (visitvancouverwa.com)
Vancouver Washington's diverse community welcomes all! Read on for more information about all the accessible activities and things to do in Vancouver.
For this Disability Pride Month, find ways to celebrate your status (cysticfibrosisnewstoday.com)
Columnist Lara Govendo beckons her readers to celebrate themselves and their specialness this Disability Pride Month.
Bringing accessibility to the beach (euroweeklynews.com)
Another development was installed in Benidorm, facilitating people with reduced mobility on local beaches; ensuring access for all.
Why we must have confident conversations about accessibility (peoplemanagement.co.uk)
After a deaf person told her how much she enjoyed her podcast, Michelle Parry-Slater started to think about how she, and organisations, can make learning more accessible and inclusive
Disability is Not a Dirty Word: Say it. Celebrate it. Share it. With Pride. (easterseals.com)
Launching in the weeks leading up to Disability Pride Month in July—with both English and Spanish versions in rotation—the D1$@B1L*tY is Not a Dirty Word campaign will run throughout the remainder of 2024.
'Imagine something': Disabled Disney guests demand action after DAS program changes (eu.usatoday.com)
Disney World and Disneyland recently changed their policies for guests with disabilities. Now some who no longer qualify for DAS are demanding action.
How Xenia Concerts is improving accessibility, 1 show at a time (cbc.ca)
Adaptive shows for neurodiverse and disabled audiences are providing an inclusive experience for music lovers.
Inclusivity, joy on display at New Mexico's first disability pride parade (aol.com)
Cory Valencia noted the Roman Colosseum has an elevator. For him, this underscores how expanding access for people with disabilities can be done, even in an amphitheater built centuries ago.
The Girl Who Walked Differently (amazon.ca)
Embark on an inspiring journey with "The Girl Who Walked Differently," a heartwarming children's book that celebrates the power of dreams and determination. This beautifully illustrated story follows the life of a young girl who, despite her physical disabilities, harbors the ambitious dream of becoming a judge and a disability advocate.
I'm deafblind - but Scotland doesn't recognise my disability (bbc.com)
Scotland does not officially recognise deafblindness and campaigners say those affected are missing out on support.
UWinnipeg alum recognizes Disability Pride Month (news.uwinnipeg.ca)
UWinnipeg Alumni Sarah Anderson (BEd 23) is breaking barriers and paving the way for future students and educators with disabilities.
46 years since 'Gang of 19' blocked Denver intersection (youtube.com)
On July 5, 1978, protesters blocked Colfax and Broadaway to demand better accommodations for people with disabilities.
Beacon Press: Disability Pride (beacon.org)
An eye-opening portrait of the diverse disability community as it is today, and how disability attitudes, activism, and representation have evolved since the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Corbett O'Toole (corbettotoole.com)
Corbett Joan O’Toole is an elder in disability communities, writer, publisher at Reclamation Press, public speaker and artist. For over 40 years, she has focused on issues of importance to disabled women and queers. A sought after speaker, she is available for virtual presentations.
DISABILITY MUSEUM: TIME TO SECURE SENATE CO-SPONSORS, SEND THOSE EMAILS (wecandothisifwetry.blogspot.com)
Currently, I am working with a group, Friends of the National Museum of Disability History and Culture, to encourage introduction of legislation to authorize a commission to explore the feasibility of establishing a national museum of disability history and culture on the National Mall. Commission legislation is the first step. If the commission is authorized, signed into law, and recommends establishing a national museum of disability history and culture, a second piece of legislation would need to be introduced, enacted, and signed by the President, before the museum could be built. Both the Senate and the House of Representatives must pass a bill and agree on a final, single version of any legislation before it goes to the President for signature. This is a very big, long-term undertaking. I will write another post for the House of Representatives.
DREDF mourns the passing of civil rights leader Congressman John Lewis. We honor Mr. Lewis’ lifelong commitment to fighting injustice and working towards his vision for a Beloved Community.
HHS Announcing the Finalization of a Rule Prohibiting Discrimination of the Basis of Disability (youtube.com)
On Wednesday, May 1, 2024, HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra held a press conference announcing the finalization of a policy that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability.
See Us. Hear Us (communicationfirst.org)
The See Us, Hear Us Campaign seeks to elevate the humanity, perspectives, and diversity of the millions of people in the US who cannot rely on speech alone to be heard and understood, regardless of disability or condition. Bias, stereotypes, and discrimination have led society to assume that not being able to speak means not being able to think. That mindset means most of us are denied access to robust, effective augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools and supports that would provide us agency and self-determination. With no way to communicate using language, we experience lifelong social isolation.
The Academy Museum launches the Disabilities, Representation and Film program July 13 in celebration of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Dr. Robert Smithdas redefined deafblindness (perkins.org)
An advocate for deafblind education and employment, Robert Smithdas' many accomplishments serve as examples of what people with deafblindness are capable of.
Realwheels Theatre (realwheels.ca)
Realwheels Theatre in Vancouver creates and produces performances that deepen understanding of disability experience.
Kathi Wolfe (wordgathering.com)
Wordgathering in an online journal of disability-related poetry, that seeks work from writers with and without disabilities. It also features comment, book reviews, essays and critiques of disability literature.
Museum of Medical History (museumofmedicalhistory.org)
The Museum of Medical History of the Sierra Sacramento Valley Medical Society showcases developments in medicine with a special relationship to our region, from the mid-1800‘s through today. The Museum is organized by various themes: patent medicines and pharmacology, basic science and laboratory medicine, antibiotics and infectious diseases, medical diagnosis and therapy, surgical diagnosis and therapy, nursing, Asian medicine, radiology, quackery and local medical history.
In Memory of the 25th Anniversary of the Olmstead Case, Don’t Leave Out Lois Curtis! (beaconbroadside.com)
This June 22, we celebrated the twenty-fifth anniversary of the historic civil rights Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) case Olmstead v. Lois Curtis. In 1999, SCOTUS “upheld the unjustified segregation of people with disabilities.” Many people are unaware of this significant civil rights case and its significance to the lives of disabled people. But even more egregious is the erasure from history of its lead plaintiff: a Black disabled woman.
KEITH JONES (dasoultoucha.com)
"If airports are a microcosm of the challenges we have in society, then we're all doomed," joked keynote speaker and community activist Keith P. Jones after telling a story about trying to fly from Baltimore to Boston with his wheelchair.
Beacon Press: To Be a Problem (beacon.org)
A searing critique of the disability rights movement from within, and a call for collective liberation that is pro-Black and centers disabled people of color.
06/22/2024 with Anita Cameron (ksfr.org)
This week, Bob interviews Anita Cameron, Disability Rights Activist, Not Dead Yet Minority Outreach Coordinator.
A Shared Struggle for Equality: Disability Rights and Racial Justice (naacpldf.org)
All struggles for rights and justice are inextricably intertwined. As July marks Disability Pride Month, centering the connection between racial justice and disability justice is essential to continuing to push for equitable access and rights in both movements.
Asian American Disability: A History and Its Archives (scholarlypublishingcollective.org)
Ability has been central to Asian American history, as the notion has importantly shaped the “model minority” trope. A success story of Asian immigrants gaining upward mobility and socio-economic power in the United States by sheer perseverance and practiced efficiency, the trope has been used as a wedge against other racialized minorities—Black Americans in particular—cast as failing to succeed.1 Because of this divide and conquer ideology, perpetuated by white supremacy and anti-Blackness, disability has been strikingly invisible in both Asian American history and historiography. Asian American literature is rife with stories of mental and physical disability, not surprisingly so given war, mass death, family separation, and diaspora fundamental to Asian American history throughout the twentieth century.2 Early statistics from medical facilities and social service agencies in the 1970s and 1980s, too, indicate high risks and rates of disability among Asian Americans, particularly more severe forms of mental illness.3 And yet, the history of Asian American disability, arguably a mirror image of the model minority trope, has been poorly substantiated by historical records and inquiries alike.
Health Insurance doing the Bare Minimum (youtube.com)
Disawhatnow?
The Battle of the Street Beggars (smartasscripple.blogspot.com)
There are a lot of those Latin American immigrants who are seeking asylum in the U.S. hanging around the city here. When they first started showing up here about a year ago, I was pissed. I wasn’t pissed at them. I was pissed at the guy who put them on a bus and dumped them all here, Governor Greg Abbott of Texas. I figured he was trying to pull some racist bull shit, like guys like him love to do. I figured he was trying to make everyone up here believe that these dirty Spanish speakers were invading our country and taking away our jobs.
Steve Way, Maysoon Zayid and more disabled comedians speak out on industry inaccessibility and hopes for systematic change.
Researchers from Google DeepMind Introduce YouTube-SL-25: A Multilingual Corpus with Over 3,000 Hours of Sign Language Videos Covering 25+ Languages (marktechpost.com)
Sign language research aims to advance technology that improves the understanding, translation, and interpretation of sign languages used by Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities globally. This field involves creating extensive datasets, developing sophisticated machine-learning models, and enhancing tools for translation and identification in various applications. By bridging communication gaps, this research supports better inclusion and accessibility for individuals who rely on sign language for daily communication.
Pushing For The Podium At The Paris Paralympics (activehands.com)
The Paris Paralympics are nearly here! We chat to Harvey Phillips, Kieran Flynn and Jillian Elwart to see how their preparations are going.
Casual Ableism (casualableism.com)
Welcome to Casual Ableism We are Casual Ableism, a Social Media initiative using our real life experiences of Ableism, to help educate & raise awareness about Ableism. Share your story with us Follow us on Instagram What is Ableism? Ableism is the discrimination of people with a disability and/or chronic illness. What is Casual Ableism? … Home Read More »
Anthropologie taps influencers and the wider disability community to launch its first adaptive collection (glossy.co)
On Wednesday, Anthropologie will introduce its first foray into adaptive apparel via a collection of eight of its existing bestsellers reworked to better fit the lives and needs of members of the disabled community. The idea came about internally, from the URBN Adapt Employee Resource Group, which is dedicated to promoting accessibility and inclusivity for the company's portfolio of brands.
Charleston disability advocate responds to backlash from social media post (live5news.com)
Lowcountry resident Jayne Mattingly has been in a wheelchair for two years and has seen how historic Charleston may not be wheelchair friendly.
British Motor Museum to host a new dedicated ‘Access Day’ this summer! (ablemagazine.co.uk)
The British Motor Museum is to host its second dedicated Access Day of 2024 on Friday 16 August. The Museum, which is committed to being accessible to all, will showcase its range of accessible activities and will be open until 8pm to ensure that everyone, regardless of their needs, gets the chance to experience what is on offer.
Unspeakable Conversations review – Liz Carr and Mat Fraser’s straight talk is enthralling (theguardian.com)
Playing a disability rights lawyer and the philosopher Peter Singer, as well as themselves, the actors deliver a powerful production
Shellshocked, attacked, left to die – this is the reality for disabled people in Gaza (theguardian.com)
We endured months of hell to get our son, who has cerebral palsy, out of danger, says Jamal al Rozzi of Gaza’s National Rehabilitation Society
Why disability pay gap reporting is no good for increasing the employment of disabled people (businessdisabilityforum.org.uk)
Angela Matthews, Director of Policy and Research here at BDF, assesses the Bill presented in the King’s Speech yesterday which could see disability pay gap reporting become mandatory for employers who employer over 250 employees.
Disability Pride Facebook Frames (thegirlinthepinkwheelchair.tumblr.com)
Disability Pride Month is officially here! I’ve made Facebook frames that also fit Instagram for you to share your Disability Pride on your social! These designs also include image descriptions. I’ll be sharing designs & info all month. Celebrate with me!
Playing for survival: the blind Japanese woman keeping a music tradition alive (theguardian.com)
Goze – women who earned a living as musicians despite sight impairments – are all but forgotten in Japan but Rieko Hirosawa has learned their songs
Disorderly, Dissenting, Disabled (disabilityvisibilityproject.com)
On Thursday, May 2, 2024, in response to widespread protests on college campuses across the US (and internationally), President Biden said, “Dissent must never lead to disorder.” This sentiment was echoed by university administrators as they scrambled to preserve order in an academic system where an orderly reputation is tremendous currency. Amid mass mobilizations of students and their communities, the establishment of encampments and Popular Universities for Palestine threatened to disorder the usual rhythms of final exams and commencement ceremonies. University leaders were willing to allow expressions of free speech within university guidelines or in designated free speech zones. Of course, guidelines for how and where one can protest often serve to restrict protests that would disrupt “business as usual.” This willfully disregards the purpose of protest – to garner attention, to disrupt, to make it difficult or impossible to ignore ongoing struggles and demands. As many have articulated, a protest with permission is a parade. Disorder is the point.
Lyft Access Trial Concludes, Verdict Weighs on Judge (wheelchairtravel.org)
Arguments concluded last week in the case of Harriet Lowell et al. v. Lyft, Inc. and, prior to adjournment, Judge Philip M. Halpern of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York remarked that it is a shame that a company like Lyft cannot find a reasonable way to serve wheelchair users across the United States. He appeared frustrated that a matter of accessibility for disabled people must be decided by the courts.
Open Your Mind to What Goes on Behind Closed Doors (youtube.com)
Rachel tells us we must never underestimate the importance of touch, affection and intimate contact for people, especially those who may have more limited options in society to enjoy sexual expression with another, or even by themselves.
NPR wants to know: What do you wish people knew about living with a disability? (npr.org)
July is Disability Pride Month, an event celebrating the diversity and contributions people with disabilities have made. NPR wants readers to share what they wish other people knew about disabilities.
A Mindset Shift (expression.emerson.edu)
Heather Watkins wishes more people considered the needs of people with disabilities.
EmpowHer Camp Class of 2025 (disabilityempowhernetwork.org)
Meet our Class of 2025 EmpowHer Camp participants! Participants are joining our year-long EmpowHer Camp program from across the United States. Get to know a little more about each young woman below.
Disability Pride Month dreaming (lucywebster.substack.com)
Hello, I’ve written many, many times about the silence around Disability Pride Month - why it’s so overlooked, and why ‘happy Pride’ can feel like precisely the wrong thing to say. This remains true. I saw a tweet recently warning people to enjoy DPM because for the rest of the year we were going to be doing Disability Wrath, which was extremely on point except that, for me, the wrath and the pride are two sides of the same coin. I want to do both.
What tips do you have for medical professionals? (happysmilestraining.co.uk)
Read about our week, including asking members of the team to answer the question ‘What tips do you have for medical professionals?’
How do disabled people read books? (happysmilestraining.co.uk)
Read about our week, including asking members of the team the question ‘How do disabled people read books?’
Finding a Way to More Independence (lauracrobb.com)
Living with a disability my whole life means I’ve had plenty of time to know what I can do, what help I need, and what works for me. Yet a few months ago I wondered if there was something new I could do. Out of curiosity, determination, and somewhat necessity, I found a way to do a task on my own!
Asking Eric: My friend uses a handicap parking sticker for pure convenience and I find it abhorrent (nj.com)
Should I confront him on this?
Project 2025 Could Hurt Disabled People (gracedowwrites.com)
Last year, conservative organizations, including the Heritage Foundation, announced a “Project 2025” policy plan for a potential second term of former president Donald Trump. If the policy plan becomes a reality, disabled people could lose vital services.
Our latest selection of the books that you should look out for (ablemagazine.co.uk)
Sometimes reading well-meaning advice about how to raise children, especially those with disabilities or additional needs, can feel like a nasty mind game, designed to showcase just what a bad job you’re doing. Happily, Ashley Blaker’s “Occasionally helpful guide to parenting kids with special needs” succeeds in guiding, without either patronising or punishing his readers.
Mary Doyle Speaks On Inclusion at Aircraft Interiors Expo 2024 (rocketgirlcoaching.com)
At the Crystal Cabin Awards in Hamburg, Accessibility and Inclusion is a foundation of the night.
Shortlist: The National Diversity Awards (nationaldiversityawards.co.uk)
Welcome to the National Diversity Awards. The UK’s most prestigious diversity event celebrates the excellent achievements of grass-root communities that tackle the issues in today’s society, providing them with recognition for their dedication and hard work.
City Power & JHB Water disconnect water and electricity for over 70 Blind residents over alleged debt of R35 million (thedeafdiary.com)
Disconnection of electricity and water by City Power and JHB Water over an alleged outstanding bill of approximately R35 million has left over 70 blind people and the hard-of-hearing without municipal water and electricity supply at the Johannesburg Society for the Blind (JSB), Klipriviersberg, south of Johannesburg in South Africa.
King’s Speech May Open Opportunities to Improve Accessibility of Health and Transport Services (pocklington.org.uk)
Yesterday's King Speech, 17 July 2024, set out the priorities of the Government for the coming Parliamentary year.
Virtual Sign Language Interpreter (sign-ai.co)
Sign AI is a AI-powered realtime sign language interpreter for the deaf and hearing communities.
At 14, Sam has the mental capacity of a five-year-old. So what’s she doing in a Queensland police cell? (theguardian.com)
Across the state, teenagers born with severe intellectual disabilities branded young repeat offenders are being locked up in adult watch houses. Here are their stories
Imagine Mr. Kennedy working in a Trump administration. (leftbrainrightbrain.co.uk)
Donald Trump was be very bad for America and very bad for the autism communities in specific and would be worse in a second term. Robert Kennedy would be very bad for America and very bad for the autism communities in specific. But it can get worse. What if Donald Trump were elected and put Robert Kennedy in a position of authority? Mr. Kennedy asked Mr. Trump for a job as some sort of “vaccine commissioner” before Mr. Trump’s first term.
Disability Belongs™ Announces Exciting Changes to Board of Directors and Embracing a New Brand (respectability.org)
Khadija Bari elected as new Board Chair of Disability Belongs™ along with two new additions to the Board of Directors.
What is FASD, and why do so many children with it end up in Australia’s justice system? (theguardian.com)
Vulnerable young people and communities concerned about crime would both benefit from better screening and support for foetal alcohol spectrum disorder, experts say
LYFT ON TRIAL: Do Rideshare Services Violate the ADA? (wheelchairtravel.org)
Wheelchair taxis are disappearing, but plaintiffs in a class action suit aim to hold Lyft accountable to the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Lyft's Wheelchair Accessible Program Manager Testifies in Federal Court (wheelchairtravel.org)
Testimony from Lyft’s WAV Program Manager raises key questions about Lyft's commitment to accessible service.
A High Court Judge shares his powerful life story that can change your life (thedeafdiary.com)
“I am an example that with the right attitude and support it is not impossible, but it is possible.” These are the words of courage from Judge Brian Mashile of the Mpumalanga Division of the High Court. Mashile, lost his vision after an attack by migrant labourers in Alexandra township in Gauteng just before he wrote his exams in Grade 9, in November 1979.
Sign Language in K-Pop (laurawissiak.substack.com)
When your 2 favourite topics collide, it's time to write a blogpost about it.
Social Security to drop obsolete jobs used to deny disability benefits (washingtonpost.com)
For decades, Social Security has used obsolete jobs like pneumatic tube operator and nut sorter to deny disabled claimants.
States could help disabled people survive climate change—by working with them (motherjones.com)
Independent living centers save lives in dire weather. Why don't they get a say in disaster plans?
Statement on The Economist's Ableist Cover (ndrn.org)
The cover of the July 6th issue of The Economist shows a walker with the seal of the President of the United States affixed to the front.
Why Litigation is Essential for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance (buttondown.email)
This article is NOT legal advice. If you find yourself in a situation where you are either considering filing or possibly defending accessibility litigation in the US, you need to consult a US lawyer who specializes in accessibility cases.
Ford and Mellon Foundations Name 2024 Disability Futures Fellows (nytimes.com)
The 20 recipients, including a Broadway composer, a Marvel video game voice actress and a three-time Pushcart Prize-nominated poet, are the initiative’s final cohort.
2024 Disability Futures Fellows (fordfoundation.org)
Meet the Disability Future Fellows disabled artists and creatives advancing the cultural landscape.
Disabled Filmmakers Breathe New Life Into Storytelling Through Web Series (huffpost.com)
In mainstream movies and TV, characters with disabilities have all too often been subjects of pity, scorn and denigration. Even worse, actors and filmmakers with disabilities continue to experience inequality and discrimination in the traditional Hollywood industry; problems that have long affected the community as a whole.
U.S. Moves to Improve Airplane Bathrooms for People With Disabilities (nytimes.com)
New regulations announced by the Transportation Department will mandate that more new planes have accessible lavatories, though the requirement will not take effect for years.
Disability News and Mental Health, ‘It felt really unfair’: The disabled migrants turned away from Australia (bbc.co.uk)
It is known as the land of the “fair go” but some disabled people hoping to move to Australia are having their visa applications rejected because of presumed costs around their health care.
Equal Skies Charter: Discussing Disability Employment In The Aviation & Aerospace Industries (criplife.co.uk)
The Equal Skies Charter really took off in May with its first successful conference, which marked the first time that the aviation and aerospace industries have come together to discuss disability employment within the sector.
Intersectionality and disability: What monitoring will and won't tell you about employees' lives (businessdisabilityforum.org.uk)
For example, is a disabled person ever ‘just’ a disabled person? Are all a disabled person’s experiences only affected to being disabled, rather than any other aspect of that person like their age, gender, ethnicity, or beliefs?
From Conversation to Action: Project Nemo Leads Fintech's Disability Inclusion Drive (thefintechtimes.com)
Project Nemo aims to tackle the underrepresentation of disabled individuals in fintech, both in the workforce and among customers.
Experimenting with local alt text generation in Firefox Nightly (hacks.mozilla.org)
Firefox 130 will feature an on-device AI model that automatically generates alt-text for images, integrated into its built-in PDF editor.
Tech Writing for Accessibility self-study (developers.google.com)
Complete this self-study course to write more accessible documentation.
App accessibility handbook (appt.org)
Our handbook is designed to make it straightforward to learn about app accessibility.
Guide to Digital Accessibility for Neuropathy (accessibility.com)
Neuropathy is one of many types of nerve impairment; it can impact a person's ability to use the technology needed to access digital services and content.
Accessibility in Design Systems: A Comprehensive Approach Through Documentation and Assets (supernova.io)
Get inspired by Gestalt's documentation approach to help you develop an accessibility mindset that can be scaled effectively through your design system.
I’m a Creative Director with Dyslexia, AI Takes My Creativity to Places I Never Imagined (printmag.com)
Gil Gershoni, founder of Dyslexic Design Thinking, on the game-changing possibilities of AI to catalyze the unique skills of neurodiverse creatives, and how agencies can capitalize on this moment.
WebAIM: The Impact of Recent U.S. Federal Rulemaking on Web and Digital Accessibility (webaim.org)
Recently, we have seen significant movement in Federal policy on web and digital accessibility. Specifically, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which is enforced by the Department of Justice, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as implemented by the Federal Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), now include specific accessibility requirements for websites, mobile apps, and kiosks (more on kiosks later). They both include specific standards, implementation timelines, and some notable exceptions. These two updates represent a huge step forward in protecting the civil rights of individuals who require digital accessibility.
Destination's 10-Year Tourism Plan Prioritizes Accessibility, Sets Example (wheelchairtravel.org)
Visit Fort Wayne unveiled a Tourism Master Plan that weaves accessibility into each objective, setting an example for destinations to follow.
Schwerbehindert und superfit, doch der Job fehlt (kobinet-nachrichten.org)
"Schwerbehindert und superfit, doch der Job fehlt", so lautet der Titel eines Podcast, der auf Bremen Zwei ausgestrahlt wurde und in der Mediathek zur Verfügung steht. "Martin Hassenpflug kann viel – aber was er will, wird ihm nicht zugetraut. Weil sich bei der Geburt die Nabelschnur um seinen Hals wickelte, ist er spastisch gelähmt und Tag und Nacht auf Hilfe angewiesen. Oder, wie es der 47-Jährige selbst formuliert: 'Ich hab‘ den ersten Bungee-Sprung meines Lebens verkackt'. Martin Hassenpflug hat Soziale Arbeit studiert und wünscht sich unbedingt einen Job auf dem ersten Arbeitsmarkt. Bisher hat das nicht geklappt, obwohl der True-Crime-Fan und Hobbyfotograf einiges zu bieten hätte: Lebenserfahrung, Menschenkenntnis und große Geduld", heißt es in der Ankündigung des Podcast.
'It's too cold in here': disabled First Nations girl's anguish revealed in watch house CCTV – video (theguardian.com)
Footage seen by Guardian Australian and SBS The Feed shows the treatment in custody of teenager with severe intellectual disabilities
Screaming, freezing, struggling to breathe: confronting Queensland watch house footage exposes anguish of children locked in isolation cells (theguardian.com)
Exclusive: Cache of videos obtained by Guardian Australia and SBS’s The Feed lays bare distressing treatment of teenagers – many of them disabled – in police custody
To the Woman at Target Whose Daughter Was Curious About My Cerebral Palsy (themighty.com)
Woman with cerebral palsy explains her condition to a child at Target.
‘Josee, the Tiger and the Fish’: Embracing People with Disabilities (awn.com)
Kotaro Tamura’s brave, emotional animated love story features one of the first lead characters in a romance anime to use a wheelchair.
Employees With Autism Find New Ways to Navigate the Workplace (nytimes.com)
As diagnoses of autism rise, Microsoft and other large companies are working to better support autistic workers so they can thrive without “masking.”
Bollywood ordered to stop mocking disabled people (thetimes.com)
India’s Supreme Court has issued guidelines to the film industry after complaints from campaigners about the way people are often portrayed on screen
Quad Gods (hbo.com)
Watch Quad Gods online at HBO.com. Stream on any device any time. Explore cast information, synopsis and more.
Stage more disability shows, says Unity Festival boss (bbc.com)
The Unity Festival was launched because of the difficulties facing disabled artists getting work.
Unity Festival 2024 (hijinx.org.uk)
Hijinx’s Unity Festival is one of Europe’s largest inclusive arts festivals and the only one of its kind in Wales. The festival is back this year, 3 – 7 July in Cardiff, with a sister event at Chapter in Cardiff (4 – 6 July), as well as satellite programmes in Bangor (27 June) and Llanelli (29 June).
Medicaid for Millions in America Hinges on Deloitte-Run Systems Plagued by Errors (kffhealthnews.org)
The technology has generated notices with errors, sent Medicaid paperwork to the wrong addresses, and been frozen for hours at a time, according to state audits, court documents, and interviews. While it can take months to fix problems, America’s poorest residents pay the price.