Deafblind People in History
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.
If you enjoy this newsletter, please forward this email to your friends! 🙏
Questions? Tips? Suggestions?
Thank you,
Raul
I wrote a book (in german)
In this book, I raise fundamental questions about inclusion in Germany. In conversations with experts, we sketch out an idea of how inclusion can work together at all levels.
The first readings are already scheduled and I can't wait to finally get back into dialogue with you!
Hand-picked news about inclusion, accessibilty and innovation
X:Ten performance film digital download (dancesyndrome.co.uk)
X: Ten showcased the incredible talents of our company of dancers – with and without learning disabilities - who work so hard to demonstrate the art of the possible for people with learning disabilities. DanceSyndrome empowers individuals to become leaders and visible role models, challenging common perceptions and breaking down barriers in society.
Crip Culture, Prepper Culture (touretteshero.com)
Preppers are people who plan for emergencies in practical ways. Exactly what they’re preparing for varies but can include natural disasters, economic crisis, civil unrest, or a zombie apocalypse.
When Jeremy Renner stepped out with a walking aid, it helped me confront my internalised ableism (theguardian.com)
Disability pride is an ongoing journey. In a less ableist world I wouldn’t need validation from a famous actor.
New Work - Neue Arbeitswelten (ardmediathek.de)
Wie sehen die Zukunftsmodelle, Risiken und Hoffnungen einer veränderten Arbeitswelt aus? Im Gespräch mit Prof. Dr. Oliver Falck, Leiter ifo Zentrum für Industrieökonomik und neue Technologien, Prof. Dr. Sebastian Manhart von der Münchener Universität der Bundeswehr.
Lucy Webster from The View From Down Here (uk.bookshop.org)
Hello!This is the place to buy all the books recommended in my newsletter, The View From Down Here. There'll mostly be a mix of feminism, memoir, politics and history - with potentially a few other genres thrown in for good measure.If you buy through this page, a bit of money will flow my way - and you'll be supporting independent bookshops too. What's not to love?Happy reading!
Extraordinarily stressed and vigilant? How racism makes people physically ill (theguardian.com)
Arline Geronimus was once called the biggest threat to youth in the US. But her theory of how injustice affects our health is more influential than ever.
“Have you seen a brain laid on an MRI, Anna?” (lydiawilkins.substack.com)
My mobility aid is not for you to police.
‘I have an invisible disability myself’: Edward Enninful and Sinéad Burke on their fashion revolution (theguardian.com)
How do you shake up a homogeneous industry? The editor and the fashion activist explain why they brought a daring, dynamic vision of disability to Vogue.
It Took 40 Years Of Silent Pain For Selma Blair To Receive Her Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis. Now, She’s Done Staying Quiet (vogue.co.uk)
“As Blair’s acting career flourished in the 2000s, what fans didn’t see was that the actor was masking her symptoms on-screen and self-medicating through the pain.”
10 Lessons I Learned in 10 Years Since Surviving the Boston Marathon Bombing (themighty.com)
#9 might surprise you.
‘I have an invisible disability myself’: Edward Enninful and Sinéad Burke on their fashion revolution (theguardian.com)
How do you shake up a homogenous industry? The editor and the fashion activist explain why they brought a daring, dynamic vision of disability to Vogue.
My Everest review – disabled man’s Himalayan trek is the toughest of challenges (theguardian.com)
Adventure film follows Max Stainton, who has cerebral palsy, as he battles expectations and great physical pain to reach the Everest base camp.
Documentary disability pregnancy (danistwinsfilm.com)
Paralyzed from the chest down, Dani Izzie’s twin pregnancy is filled with joy and fraught with risks, including the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. Dani’s Twins Film is a documentary that follows her unforgettable journey.
In A Flash Episode 4 Pt.1: Dani's Twins (Teaser) (directory.libsyn.com)
Disabled moms aren’t counted in most maternity statistics, and we aren’t found on the pages of obstetrics textbooks. Enter Dani’s Twins: a documentary about disability cultural advocate and quadriplegic mom Dani Izzie offering a rare and intimate look at the creativity, adaptation, and joy woven into disabled pregnancy and parenthood. This episode is the first of a two part series. In part one, we’ll talk with Dani about the role of creativity and community in the everyday life of a disabled mom. In part two of this series, we’ll zoom out to consider the role of creativity in transforming policy for disabled parents as we talk to the producer of Dani’s Twins, aspiring dad, and disability policy expert: Andy Arias. Guest: Dani Izzie Host: Jessica Stokes Audio Producer: Lawrence Carter-Long Transcript by: Lawrence Carter-Long Music: And Just Like That By Bryan Teoh Transcript: Dani Izzie: I acquired my disability almost 15 years ago. So I'd say when I was first injured, one of the first questions that popped into my head is: Am I going to be able to be a mom with this disability? And there was a mentor in the rehab where I was, Shannon, who actually happens to be in the film. She was the first woman that I'd ever befriended and gotten to know who was a quadriplegic and also a mom. I was just amazed because I'd never seen it out there. And I'd just made the assumption that it would be too hard because what I was facing was unfamiliar territory. And so, yeah, I think Shannon was the first person that gave me hope. And then from there, I kept meeting more and more women who have kids. And I realized, okay, well, this is a regular thing. It's not even a big deal, actually!
When suicide attempts turn into assisted suicides: Alexander Raikin for Inside Policy | Macdonald-Laurier Institute (macdonaldlaurier.ca)
There are some indications that suicide through MAiD is already happening in Canada.
How To Write Alt Text For Memes And Funny Pictures (veroniiiica.com)
How to write alt text for memes and funny pictures on Instagram and other social media platforms for people with blindness and vision impairment.
Disability denied: Unable to work, COVID long haulers face barriers to benefits (eu.usatoday.com)
There is no single test to identify long COVID, and not having a test can be a barrier to qualifying for disability.
Free Email Class: Crip Crash Course (sinsinvalid.mykajabi.com)
Welcome to your three day Crip Crash Course! We'll cover the basics so you have a clear understanding of disability justice.
Dolly Sen Wellcome Racism Event (youtube.com)
Is It Wilful Ignorance That Enables Psychiatry To Disregard Racism?”. The performance, by artist Dolly Sen explores how racism and being racialised affects mental health.
“Nothing Is More Fashionable Than Inclusivity”: Sinéad Burke Introduces British Vogue’s May 2023 Cover Stars (vogue.co.uk)
Powerful. Aspirational. Chic. From runways to galleries, stadiums to television screens, a vanguard of Disabled talent is changing perspectives and evolving industries.
Artist with disability remains resilient as she looks for opportunities to work after falling into homelessness (news.yahoo.com)
There was a time, in her younger years, when Monserrat Moran, lived for her dreams, just like any other kid. She wanted to be an artist, fall in love, have her own family and buy a home. But as she grew older, she was constantly reminded that she was different from everyone else at her Chicago high school, and that perhaps those dreams would never come true.
Mexican artist with disability hopes to be independent after being homeless (thestar.com.my)
Born with phocomelia syndrome, a birth defect characterised by severe malformation of the extremities, Monserrat Moran remains resilient as she looks for opportunities to work.
Too Many Deaths, Too Many Left Behind: A People's External Review of the CDC (peoplescdc.org)
When the CDC announced it was conducting an internal review in 2022, we launched a People’s Review of the CDC. We surveyed nearly 500 public health experts and community leaders and reviewed over 200 journal articles, government reports, news articles and white papers. We found that the CDC prioritized individual choice and short-term business interest over sharing accurate scientific evidence with the public and protecting population health.
Things I Have Learned The Hard Way (limboarts.co.uk)
Retrospective of artist and disability activist Lizzy Rose (1988-2022)
Residency | Pioneer Works (pioneerworks.org)
Each September, we select residents through an open call. Aided by a jury of experts and Alumni Residents, Pioneer Works welcomes residents who work outside existing models and “norms” of their field and will benefit from our unique facilities and culture.
Jeffrey Yasuo Mansfield: Advocating for Disability Justice in Design (architectmagazine.com)
"True justice requires us to go beyond the legal definition of access," the MASS Design Group principal writes. "Focusing on codes, rights, and law is essential, but not enough."
SPAGHETTI JUNCTION (spaghettijunctionfilm.com)
A disabled teenager in America’s deep south encounters a traveler claiming to have super natural origins, together they embark on a journey of healing, romance, and conflict with a strange cult who attempt to consume them.
If I had a magic wand (disabilitydebrief.org)
Disability community and where the Debrief is going.
'It's not a checklist, it's a mindset' — accessibility and inclusion is at the centre of this music community (abc.net.au)
Dave Dowling was putting on one of his semi-regular backyard DIY gigs on the north side of Melbourne when he first met Harley Young, a local musician with a big idea and a lot of enthusiasm.
University of California Workers Center Disability Justice in Union Organizing (truthout.org)
Workers built solidarity by rejecting the “deserving vs. undeserving” disabled model and scarcity approach to access.
HEARD (behearddc.org)
HEARD is a cross-disability abolitionist organization that unites across identities, communities, movements, and borders to end ableism, racism, capitalism, and all other forms of oppression and violence. HEARD supports disabled people and others who experience ableism by rejecting disability hierarchies and rigid definitions of disability, and by recognizing deaf people as part of disability communities. HEARD works to increase our collective capacity to identify, understand, and challenge oppression through grassroots advocacy, community organizing, peer support, mutual aid, education, and research.
Let's Laugh More: Exploring the Relationship Between Disability and Humor (lincolncenter.org)
Since launching the disability satire publication, The Squeaky Wheel, Steven Verdile has joined numerous podcasts and interviews (with Emily Ladeau, Forbes and others) on the intersection of disability and humor. Joined by other disabled humorists from The Squeaky Wheel, the panel will cover topics including the importance of on-screen representation, and why comedy is such a powerful tool in combatting ableism.
The Power of Somatics for Disability Justice (healingjusticeldn.org)
Join us online in conversation with Patty Berne of Sins Invalid, Lani Parker of Sisters of Frida, The Triple Cripples and Farzana Khan.
OCTC offering program to support students with intellectual disabilities wanting to attend college (owensborotimes.com)
Owensboro Community and Technical College is now offering a Career and Life Skills Certificate, a program that supports students with intellectual disabilities who want to attend college to improve employability and explore career opportunities.
Minnesota to join at least 4 other states in protecting transgender care this year (npr.org)
In 2023, a record number of states have passed rules or legislation to eliminate youth gender-affirming care, but a record number of states have also moved to protect care for trans youth and adults.
How can we ignore gun violence and COVID deaths? Self-interest rules America (thehill.com)
Over the past few weeks, the American public has been exposed to any number of measures of the nation’s well-being.
Black Disability Justice Syllabus (sinsinvalid.org)
Sins Invalid offers our Black Disabled Futures Month Syllabus as an opportunity to honor the legacies of Black disabled artists, thinkers, activists, and leaders and a tool for future work.
Nina G. Stuttering Comedian (ninagcomedian.com)
Nina G is a comedian, professional speaker, comedy historical consultant and author of Stutterer Interrupted and Bay Area Stand-Up Comedy: A Humorous History.
Models of Diversity at London Fashion Week on June 12th (justgiving.com)
Charity MODELS OF DIVERSITY are fundraising to put on a revolutionary diverse and representative catwalk show at London's iconic Freemasons Hall at London Fashion Week
LLaVA (llava-vl.github.io)
Visual Instruction Tuning
Autism, community and the DataFam – with Adam Mico (sites.libsyn.com)
Adam Mico is the Principal of Data Visualization and Enablement at Moderna. He is a Tableau Visionary, 3x Tableau Ambassador, an Advisory Board Member of the Data Leadership Collaborative, and a member of the Tableau Speaker Bureau. In his spare time, he blogs, produces data visualizations, travels, and networks with the larger data community.
Shabbat in ASL on TikTok (respectability.org)
RespectAbility is pleased to partner with Shabbat in ASL and One Table to celebrate Shabbat on TikTok with Katriel Nopoulus and Fellow Noah Strauss.
Learning-disabled and autistic people are being neglected and tortured. How much longer? (theguardian.com)
Across the UK, revelations of institutional abuse keep mounting up, yet people are still being denied basic respect, says Guardian columnist John Harris.
Health! Education! An online marsupial cartoon school! What Australia (me) wants in the 2023 budget (theguardian.com)
No more of this neoliberal tomfoolery. Let’s get back to good old-fashioned larrikin socialist basics.
Deafblind People in History (violetbfox.info)
"I’ve written a 28-page zine about deafblindness and deafblind people in history and I’m excited to share it with the world! Its title is Deafblind People in History: It’s Not Just Helen Keller. I’m selling it for $3 at Quimby’s and offering it free online to make it as accessible as possible."
Neurodiversity & unbiased CX approaches: the opportunities you may be missing out on (cxm.co.uk)
Having an unbiased, inclusive and diverse CX team can greatly impact your CX approaches. What are the opportunities at play?
Tommy Edison (blindfilmcritic.tumblr.com)
Describing Colors As A Blind Person Tommy Edison, who's been blind since birth, describes the colors red, blue and orange.
LA Metro to comply with ADA, improve Union Station access for persons with disabilities (disabilityinsider.com)
Following an investigation that found Los Angeles Union Station was not accessible to persons with disabilities, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) entered into a settlement agreement that requires the transit agency to remedy violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Zappar Creates Accessible QR codes For Visually Impaired Shoppers (assistivetechnologyblog.com)
Zappar, a UK based company has come up with a new accessible QR code solution that will help blind and partially sighted people access product information on store shelves and in cabinets at home relatively quickly. “Accessible QR” brings a slight modification to the regular QR code that we are all familiar with by including a unique, patent pending D3 “dot-dot-dash” pattern around it. This pattern increases the scanning distance of a standard QR code by 7x, enabling visually impaired people to find the information they are looking for from a much farther distance. The accessible QR code not only identifies the product but also provides all the product details in a structured way that can be easily read by VoiceOver.
Angela Barnes: ‘Comedy’s the only job I’ve had where I don’t feel like a failure’ (theguardian.com)
As she tours her latest show, the sanguine standup talks about trolls, deafness and finding joy through performing.
People with long COVID continue to experience medical gaslighting more than 3 years into the pandemic (theconversation.com)
People with long COVID report that their symptoms are dismissed or not treated seriously by health-care providers. This medical gaslighting not only prevents treatment but can cause stigma and shame.
‘You literally stole my independence’: What happens when an airline breaks a wheelchair (wgbh.org)
Colleen Flanagan's power wheelchair was badly damaged on a flight from Boston to Washington, D.C. this week.
The elephant artworks interrogating Korean life: ‘When we get rid of the power structure, what will we see?’ (theguardian.com)
Oum Jeongsoon became fascinated with elephants over a decade ago. Her latest sculpture has no trunk and invites touch – and it’s just won a $100,000 prize.
Subway Announcements To Feature Kids With Autism (disabilityscoop.com)
Transit systems in New York and other major cities are giving children with autism — many of whom are fascinated by trains — the opportunity to record the station announcements that riders hear.
Biden Signs Executive Order Aimed At Improving Care For People With Disabilities (disabilityscoop.com)
With a sweeping new executive order, President Joe Biden is looking to ease pressure on the nation's beleaguered home and community-based services system.
For transgender kids, a frantic rush for treatment amid bans (apnews.com)
As a third grader in Utah, mandolin-playing math whiz Elle Palmer said aloud what she had only before sensed, telling a friend she planned to transfer schools the following year and hoped her new classmates would see her as a girl.
Another wave of COVID-19 hospitalizations expected in Oregon in May (eu.statesmanjournal.com)
Overall COVID-19 trends remain positive, with declining cases, hospitalizations and deaths, state health officials say.
Vietnam’s Commercial Hub Orders Return of School Mask-Wearing Amid New Covid Cases (bloomberg.com)
Vietnam’s commercial hub of Ho Chi Minh City is ordering the return of mask-wearing at school campuses amid a rise in Covid infections, the city’s education department said in a post on its website.
Fatal fungus outbreak worries Nevada lawmakers, more help wanted (reviewjournal.com)
Candida auris cases in Southern Nevada “have been alarmingly trending in the wrong direction,” the delegation states in a letter to CDC Director Rochelle Walensky.
The teenage dream that influenced my career choice (nation.africa)
Jackline Lidubwi is a multi-award-winning communications professional passionate about issues affecting Persons with Disabilities.
Dignity, Daring, and Disability: The Pioneering Queer Composer and Defiant Genius Ethel Smyth on Making Music While Going Deaf (themarginalian.org)
…with a side of Virginia Woolf’s elated infatuation.
COVID-19 outbreak hits large Bay Area hospital, prompting new mask rules (sfchronicle.com)
Physicians and staff at one of the Bay Area’s largest hospitals are required to mask up again following a sizable COVID-19 outbreak.
“My Goal Was Always To Be On The Cover Of Vogue”: Model Ellie Goldstein Has The Fashion Industry At Her Feet (vogue.co.uk)
“My disability has taught me to be ‘me’,” British Vogue’s May 2023 cover star says.
Eli Wolff, leading advocate for athletes with disabilities, dies at 45 (bostonglobe.com)
"I knew that I wanted to try to make a difference," Mr. Wolff said of his advocacy for opening sports more fully to those with disabilities.
Bus company settles legal action over wheelchair space ‘humiliation’ (disabilitynewsservice.com)
A transport company has been forced to pay compensation to a disabled woman after its drivers repeatedly breached a legal agreement aimed at protecting the rights of wheelchair-users to use its buses.
Study: Black women should start breast cancer screening at age 42 (statnews.com)
Breast cancer is slightly less prevalent among Black women in the U.S. compared to white women. But they have a 40% higher risk of dying due to early-onset breast cancer.
Tick Disease Now Endemic In 10 States. Here’s What That Means (weather.com)
Cases of a rare tick-borne illness are now at endemic levels. Here’s what it is and how to protect yourself.
Color Contrast Checker, analyser and color suggestions for WCAG & APCA (colorcontrast.app)
Check the contrast between colors using WCAG or APCA and get suggestions for better colors if needed.
How to Organize a Last Minute Virtual Event (jessicacox.com)
Planning a last minute virtual event? Learn engagement tips and how to ensure success in a pinch from veteran keynote speaker Jessica Cox.
Bridging the Divide in the Autism Community (themighty.com)
"While productive debate can be helpful, arguing and finger-pointing get us nowhere."
How I Found My Dream Job With Schizophrenia (themighty.com)
"The insight I have into this complex and debilitating mental health condition is something that cannot be learned through books — it comes from firsthand experience."
Why Hotels Should Improve Accessibility With Tech For Persons With Disabilities (bluebadgestyle.com)
Our Leader Fiona Jarvis gave a good account of the need for hospitality venues to improve accessibility for disabled people…..’unfortunately it will only become urgent when a hotel owner or manager becomes disabled’… Hear more in this video from The Hotel, Restaurant & Catering Show – London March 2023.
10 Reasons to Recover From an Eating Disorder (themighty.com)
"You may never get rid of the urges or persistent 'disordered voices' completely. But they become so dimmed that controlling them becomes easier. You learn how to manage, how to bite back, and, most importantly, just how strong you can become."
Airline crew to work with Guide Dogs to help those with a visual impairment (independent.co.uk)
It comes after a poll found that visually impaired adults would like to travel abroad more, but often felt uncomfortable travelling by plane.
Access Jam (accessunlocked.games)
Accessibility and the games industry continues to be explored in many different ways - from small independent studios implementing a wide range of options through to AAA studios hiring internal team members to work on making games accessible to all. This year, from Global Accessibility Awareness Day, Accessibility Unlocked is running their first month-long jam - AccessJam! Despite Accessibility Unlocked being focused on Australia & New Zealand, this jam is open to participants around the world!
Yearbook (goodreads.com)
Yearbook is a collection of true stories that I desperately hope are just funny at worst, and life-changingly amazing at best. (I understand that it’s likely the former, which is a fancy “book” way of saying “the first one.”)
AAV Artists Talk – Beau Windon on Authenticity (artsaccess.com.au)
AAV Artists Talk is a video series that feature Deaf and Disabled artists sharing their experience. This video features Beau Windon. Beau is a neurodivergent writer of Wiradjuri descent based in Melbourne. In this video, he discusses authenticity in his arts practice and the impact it has.
Meet The New Vanguard of Disabled Talent (vogue.co.uk)
“I can say unequivocally that the disabled... community [has] taught me almost every honourable quality I now possess,” says the actor Selma Blair, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2018, and is one of the 19 dynamic stars featured in British Vogue’s May 2023 issue, which is guest edited by writer and activist Sinéad Burke and celebrates a new vanguard of disabled talent. Watch the film in full to go backstage on the set of the cover shoot, and hear more from the stars, including models Ellie Goldstein and Aaron Rose Philip, and Justina Miles, the American Sign Language interpreter who rocketed to internet fame thanks to her performance at Rihanna’s Super Bowl Halftime Show.Video description:Someone uses a clapperboard before a mottled studio backdrop. Clips are shown of stylishly dressed people of different intersectional identities preparing themselves to be interviewed on camera. Interviews start.
Job. Sociology and psychology of disability simulations (youtu.be)
Disability simulations are controversial. Some consider them a useful teaching tool, while others, especially those in the disability community, consider them flawed approaches, prone to stigmatisation. What evidence have psychological studies shown regarding the effects of disability simulations, and can disability simulations bring added value towards the design and development process? A research-backed look at simulation effectiveness.
Mindset Matters: Some Reflections Around The Influence Of Disability In A Changing World (forbes.com)
This column is a thought piece on the idea of the changing landscape of the disability narrative across business and culture.
Accessible Design Systems with Joe Baker (3playmedia.com)
Hear from Joe Baker, a Senior Product Manager for Accessibility for the Design System at Atlassian, about accessible design systems.
Neuron's e-scooters expand urban accessibility for riders with disabilities (intelligenttransport.com)
Through a focus group and other initiatives, Neuron is seeking to make its services even more accessible to all its riders.
Sport for All: FEI Releases Accessibility Guide for Event Organizers (eventingnation.com)
The FEI has announced the launch of a new Guide, designed to assist Event Organisers with improving accessibility for athletes, staff and spectators with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can enjoy equestrian events regardless of their disability and mobility levels.
Disrupting the Future of Accessibility, with Anthony Franklin (prweb.com)
Disruption Interruption podcast host and veteran communications disruptor, Karla Jo Helms, recently sat down with Anthony Franklin from SaaS platform Ava, provider of real-time captions using AI and human intelligence to provide accessibility to those with hearing loss.
Building Relationships and Collaborating with Faith Communities (respectability.org)
Presenters discussed multiple methods of engagement and provided examples of service, volunteer, employment, and social opportunities.
Fireside Chat: Advancing Opportunities for Disabled Individuals (respectability.org)
Join us on to hear from members of our Board and Staff about our work advancing opportunities, and our vision for the coming years.
Reauthorizing an Improved WIOA (respectability.org)
One significant component of the modern workforce system–WIOA–is in need of reauthorization, writes Policy Fellow Emily Snodderly.
As a disabled person, every day I find myself masking and code switching (metro.co.uk)
Sometimes, by trying to fit in, you end up sacrificing your authentic self to make non-disabled people feel comfortable around you.
How to Navigate a Job Search When You Have a Disability (themighty.com)
"After a decade of building fundamental job skills and impressive credentials, I am interviewing again for employers."
AAPD Applauds Biden-Harris Executive Order on the Care Economy (diverseabilitymagazine.com)
President Biden issued an historic Executive Order containing over fifty directives to mobilize resources across the federal government.
‘A Quick Death or a Slow Death’: Prisoners Choose War to Get Lifesaving Drugs (nytimes.com)
An estimated 20 percent of Russia prisoner recruits are H.I.V. positive. To some, the front lines seemed less risky than prisons where they said they were denied effective treatments.
'Wings for All' event helps make travel more accessible to people with disabilities (abcnews4.com)
A partnership between Charleston County Aviation Authority, Delta Airlines, and the Arc of the Lowcountry is helping to bring a smooth travel experience to those with disabilities.
Native Instruments announces new Accessibility Helper tool for MASCHINE MK3 (magneticmag.com)
Native Instruments has released the NI Accessibility Helper, a new lightweight app that works with MASCHINE software to help visually impaired producers and beatmakers.
Packers hire NFL's first legally deaf offensive player as assistant to player engagement (fox47.com)
The Packers are adding a history-making fullback to their front office staff.
With Its New MYDYS App, FACIL’iti Shows AI Is More Than Mere Chatbots—It’s Accessibility Too (forbes.com)
The company was recognized as a Innovation Award honoree for its dyslexia-focused MYDYS app, which FACIL’iti describes as helping dyslexic people "understand what they read."
Prime Video launches a new accessibility feature that makes it easier to hear dialogue in your favorite movies and series (aboutamazon.com)
Dialogue Boost is an innovation that lets you self-select dialogue volume levels to suit your needs on any device with Prime Video.
Digital Workplace Group dives into prioritizing accessibility in the digital workplace with final instalment of three-part report (bdaily.co.uk)
Digital Workplace Group (DWG) has released the third and final part of their report series, The inclusive digital workplace.
#IncludeNews April 2023 (inclusion-europe.eu)
Overview of news, reports, policies relevant to people with intellectual disabilities and their families in Europe.
Everything created was destroyed - Europe for us - Easy to read Magazine (inclusion-europe.eu)
Inclusion Europe published a new issue of Europe for us, the newsletter for self-advocates, written in easy-to-read.
Elements and goals of the European Disability Strategy (inclusion-europe.eu)
What is the European Disability Strategy? How can the European Disability Strategy improve the lives of people with intellectual disabilities ?
European Parliament of Persons with Disabilities + Training for Inclusion Europe members (inclusion-europe.eu)
Information about the 5th edition of the European Parliament of Persons with Disabilities which will touch upon the 2024 European elections.
Register for Hear our Voices! self-advocacy conference in Tallinn (inclusion-europe.eu)
Hear our Voices! is a meeting of self-advocates, organised by self-advocates.More than 100 self-advocates meet at Hear our Voices! to talk about what is important to us, and to learn from one another. The conference takes place in Tallinn, Estonia from 20 to 22 September 2023.
New Luminate Report Finds Need for More Disability Representation in Film and Television (respectability.org)
A new report by Luminate found that disability representation on screen was by far and away the lowest of any minority group they analyzed.
These microbes found in tumors promote cancer. What if we just kill them? (nationalgeographic.com)
New studies show that bacteria help cancer cells evade the body’s immune response. Experts say this relationship could prove vital for wiping out cancer.
‘A Quick Death or a Slow Death’: Prisoners Choose War to Get Lifesaving Drugs (nytimes.com)
An estimated 20 percent of Russia prisoner recruits are H.I.V. positive. To some, the front lines seemed less risky than prisons where they said they were denied effective treatments.
European group raises voice over air travel ‘nightmare’ for people with disabilities (english.alarabiya.net)
People with disabilities in Europe still face disproportionate obstacles when flying, with denial of boarding common due to purported safety reasons often related to equipment such as wheelchairs or assistance dogs, a report said on Wednesday.
Lab-grown blood could (one day, maybe) save your life (vox.com)
The quixotic, centuries-long search for blood alternatives is finally succeeding.
News10NBC Investigates: NYS gives homecare aides a raise but insurance companies keep most of it (whec.com)
News10NBC is investigating a problem with money that should be going to people who care for people with disabilities. Sometimes it's their own children.
Patients were told their voices could disappear. They turned to AI to save them. (washingtonpost.com)
Artificial intelligence can re-create voices that may have otherwise been lost to disease.
A silent crisis in men’s health gets worse (washingtonpost.com)
Across the lifespan -- from infancy to the teen years, midlife and old age -- boys and men are more likely to die at every age compared to girls and women.
Multiple Sclerosis Drug Shows Promise Preventing Earliest Symptoms Of Degenerative Disease (forbes.com)
Early findings suggest the drug, which is already approved for MS symptoms, could slash the risk of people with no symptoms but who have signs of nerve damage on MRI scans.
Legendary Deaf actor Andy Vasnick passes away at 97 (facebook.com)
Andy Vasnick, a Deaf actor, known for his role in theater and ASL films such as “Hard Man” and “Gerald,” has recently passed away at the age of 97. Members of the Deaf community say that he was a legendary actor.
Beauty can be slow to reveal itself (hollandbloorview.ca)
'I feel an affinity with difficult beauty because with a disability your worth, your value in the world, is not so easily seen by other people.'
Children’s book series aims to write new chapter for Para sports in Argentina (paralympic.org)
'People first, athletes second and disability third’ is the main message of seven children's books on Para athletes. The books are packed with digital features, such as sign language and audio options, to make the reading experience accessible for everyone.
How do we look after each other? (disabilitydebrief.org)
Rethinking care systems with policy and personal experience.
Making her daughter's world accessible (youtube.com)
A Penticton mom is trying to add specially built shopping carts to local grocery stores, so kids of all accessibility levels can come with their parents.
Accessibility guide for MASCHINE MK3 (youtube.com)
Learn how to use the latest accessibility tools in MASCHINE MK3 for visually impaired users. Discover the new Accessibility Helper, a new program that runs alongside the MASCHINE software, allowing users to hear the buttons that they are selecting on the MASCHINE MK3 hardware. Users can also see the names of the buttons they are using in an enlarged text size on their screen.
5 ways hotels can improve digital accessibility (blog.usablenet.com)
Read five tips for hotels on digital accessibility based on the experience of a blind person who uses a screen reader
Accessibility For All Is Not A Nice To Have – It Is A Must (forbes.com)
It is fair to say that there have been many horror stories regarding travel, and an abundance of evidence suggests that people with disabilities are not considered a key customer demographic.
Web Design Fundamentals (europeantimes.news)
Web design is the process of creating and designing websites that are visually appealing, engaging, user-friendly, and effective in communicating with their target audience. A website is often the first impression a potential customer or client may have of a business, and it is critical that it reflects the company’s values, brand, and message. Good web design involves a combination of art, technology, and human psychology to create an optimal user experience. In today’s digital age, where websites are essential for almost every business, it is crucial that businesses invest in professional web design to stay ahead of the competition.
What Is Audio Description on Movies and TV Shows? (makeuseof.com)
Here's everything you need to know about audio descriptions and why they're more important than you may think.
Viral video brings attention to accessibility issues in elevators (youtube.com)
DC native Mario Bonds was stuck on an elevator because a digital control panel had no buttons in braille.
Maximizing Accessibility in Your Web App with Filestack (hackernoon.com)
Make your web app accessible to everyone with Filestack's features and tools for maximizing accessibility.
Accessible Learning Design: Reaching All Learners Where They Are (shrm.org)
Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are at the core of all we do, so accessibility must be part of all conversations, including learning and development. It is imperative that all learners have access to education and learning, so that everyone has the same opportunities to grow in their career. Learning and development professionals should focus on accessibility in design and development to provide more equitable and inclusive learning experiences, which ensures compliance, increases skill levels, and positively impacts culture and the bottom line.
How Disabled Employees Lose Trust with their Employers (linkedin.com)
Trust has to be the highest value in your company, and if it’s not, something bad is going to happen to you. - Marc Benioff The success of an organization depends in large part on their employee performance.
The Importance of Accessible and Inclusive Cybersecurity (securityintelligence.com)
We are now living in the digital age, but many people still struggle to access essential cyber tools. Inclusivity is the crucial next step.
Ask SAM: How to file a complaint about accessibility at a polling site (journalnow.com)
The Winston-Salem Journal ran an article from The Associated Press story earlier this month on voters with disabilities having problems accessing polling places.
Why Accessibility Widgets Are Not the Silver Bullet for Your Website (hotelnewsresource.com)
Do accessibility widgets solve all your ADA problems and keep you safe from lawsuits? The short answer is no. And the longer answer, well, is a little more involved.
Training session on Accessibility and Disability Awareness (media.un.org)
The training will be tailored for delegates of Member States, observers of the General Assembly and representatives of NGOs in consultative status with ECOSOC, in an informal conversation on the human dimension of inclusion, with presentations of good practices, etiquette and communication and protocols.
How Two Accessibility Consulting Companies Team Up for Accessibility Testing (equalentry.com)
AccessAbility Officer has a job readiness training program designed for non-sighted vocational rehabilitation customers who want to be digital accessibility testers. Students undergo 13.5 weeks of remote training. Each cohort is small and limited to four to 10 students.
Erklärungsvideo zum Thema: Anerkennung einer Behinderung in Deutschland (hi-deutschland-projekte.de)
In einem neuen kurzen Video erklären wir, wie in Deutschland die Anerkennung einer Behinderung erfolgt. Wir informieren darin über die einzelnen Antragsschritte und die richtigen Ansprechpartner.
CJI interacts with participants of digital accessibility training for visually challenged judicial officers, court staff (devdiscourse.com)
Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud recently interacted with the participants of the first-ever digital accessibility ICT training for visually challenged judicial officers and court staff. The two-day digital accessibility training was held in two separate batches on April 17 and 18 for six visually challenged judicial officers and 14 visually challenged court staff.
Supreme Court eCommittee conducts first ever digital accessibility ICT training for visually impaired judicial officers, staff (barandbench.com)
As part of the eCommittee's ICT capacity-building exercise, digital accessibility training for persons with disabilities is being implemented in a phased manner for judges and court staff.
Disability Justice in the Spotlight: British Vogue Shines a Light on the Issue (bollyinside.com)
British Vogue is taking a step towards equity and inclusivity in the fashion industry with its May 2023 issue, titled “Reframing Fashion.
Reframing Fashion: British Vogue Celebrates Disabled Talent in Historic New Edition (tiltingthelens.com)
Fashion has historically tended to overlook certain groups or communities, and certainly Disabled people are no strangers to exclusion within the industry.
In 'major breakthrough,' new test can detect Parkinson's disease before symptoms appear (eu.usatoday.com)
A study sponsored by the Michael J. Fox Foundation finds a test of spinal fluid may be able to predict who is likely to develop Parkinson’s disease.
John Hendrickson’s ‘Life on Delay: Making Peace with a Stutter’ (radiowest.kuer.org)
In 2019, “Atlantic” writer and editor John Hendrickson wrote a piece about then-presidential candidate Joe Biden’s struggle with stuttering. It forced Hendrickson to reconcile with his own stutter, too.
For People With Disabilities, Vacationing is Often Anything But! (womensenews.org)
Women with disabilities are even more likely to be victims of violence or rape than non-disabled women, and are less likely to be able to obtain police intervention, legal protection, or prophylactic care.
5 ways to make workplaces more accessible for employees with long COVID-19 (fastcompany.com)
More than 16 million Americans are dealing with this debilitating condition. These accommodations can help.
Special equipment allows for wheelchair accessibility at Pismo Preserve (ksby.com)
Travis Jecker, the founder of Positive Ride, is breaking barriers for folks with mobility impairments. The Pismo Preserve is now increasing wheelchair access through a special device.
John Fetterman wants to 'pay it forward' by speaking openly about his depression (npr.org)
The Pennsylvania freshman senator is back to work on Capitol Hill after admitting himself to a hospital to seek treatment for clinical depression in February.
Accessibility on stage: Dance and activism blend in Abilities Dance performance (baystatebanner.com)
This month, Abilities Dance Boston presents the world premiere of “Intersections v2,” the second installment of a performance highlighting BIPOC artists and promoting disability rights.
Visually impaired man says he was denied access to business because of service dog (cleveland19.com)
A man in North Carolina says he was denied access to a business because of his service dog.
Bill Would Requrie Home Accessibility Coverage (warwickpost.com)
Rep. McNamara's (D-Dist. 19) new bill requires health insurers to provide home accessibility coverage for accessible modifications to homes.
On A Positive Note: Deaf and Blind Man's Artwork A Catalyst for Inspiration (cheddar.com)
Being diagnosed with life-altering conditions like blindness is enough to send anyone into the depths of depression but not for Tony Giordano. He was born deaf and then went blind in in his 50s but he didn't le that stop him. Giordano loved to travel, ride dirt bikes and lived a full life up until he went blind, and then he found a new lease on life: sculpting.
Jillian Mercado Won’t Rest Until Inclusivity Is No Longer Clickbait (allure.com)
The actor and model is a passionate advocate for inclusivity in the beauty, fashion, and entertainment industries — but dreams of a day when she doesn’t have to be.
Not enough people wear hearing aids, experts say. Doing so could reduce dementia (edition.cnn.com)
Both hearing loss and dementia are prevalent in older adults, experts say. But a new study shows that treating hearing loss might prevent dementia.
States buildings to be audited for their accessibility (bbc.com)
Accessibility of States buildings to be tested for compliance with new anti-discrimination laws.
Accessible tourist sites in Jordan remain a distant goal, say activists (jordantimes.com)
Jordan's tourist attractions remain largely inaccessible for people with disabilities, propelling a “persistent demand” from activists to prioritise accessibility.
People with disabilities waiting hours for a taxi as drivers caught rejecting bookings (abc.net.au)
Disability advocates say the shortage of wheelchair accessible taxis is reaching "crisis point" with the state's transport minister revealing the taxi licensing framework will be reviewed.
How cognitive diversity in AI can help close the disability inclusion gap (weforum.org)
Cognitive diversity is often marked by social exclusion and AI-based assistive technologies can address such challenges, but must be developed inclusively.
Disability: Making hybrid working accessible for all (personneltoday.com)
Hybrid working: disability and how accessible office/remote working is should be considered in employers' policies.
Call for Spike Island to be more accessible to wheelchair users (echolive.ie)
Around 500 people have signed a petition.
India @75, Looking at 100: Accessibility is for everyone (indianexpress.com)
Sminu Jindal writes: Making India accessible by 2047 for everyone requires prioritising accessibility in infrastructure and policy.
Player's Own Voice podcast: One of world's top wheelchair rugby players also champions accessibility (cbc.ca)
Wheelchair rugby national team veteran Zak Madell blends competitive nature, creativity, architectural technology study, and deep passion for accessibility. Madell's formula wins hearts and minds on and off the field of play.
Making older Guernsey buildings accessible 'might be a challenge' (bbc.com)
A Guernsey Disability Alliance member acknowledges modifying older buildings might be limited.
British Vogue praised for history making covers of people with disabilities (metro.co.uk)
'This means the world.'
British Vogue Highlights Disability Justice (businessoffashion.com)
For its May 2023 issue, called “Reframing Fashion,” British Vogue is collaborating with Tilting the Lens, writer Sinéad Burke’s accessibility consulting agency to recognise and celebrate the disabled community in the fashion industry.
Selma Blair appears on British Vogue cover with cane: ‘It’s an extension of me’ (today.com)
“I have an emotional and physical attachment to the cane,” the actor shared.
'A necessary and overdue education': British Vogue dedicates five covers to disabled trailblazers (edition.cnn.com)
British Vogue has revealed five portraits featuring disabled activists, models and creatives for a series of May 2023 covers, a move the magazine hopes will further important conversations around disability in the media and society.
A New Vanguard Of Disabled Talent Covers British Vogue’s May 2023 Issue (vogue.co.uk)
“Disability should feel personal to us all,” writes Edward Enninful in his introduction to this month’s historic issue.
Art Museums Step Up to Improve Accessibility for the Disabled (koreabizwire.com)
SEOUL, April 19 (Korea Bizwire) — Efforts are being made to improve accessibility for disabled individuals in the arts industry.
Accessibility Education, Courses & Speaking (mabelyq.com)
Grow your audience & your bottom line by making your business accessible to those with disabilities. Work with accessibility educator & speaker Erin Perkins 1:1, in a small group, or through her online course.
WIN Summit 2023: The Future Is Female (respectability.org)
WIN Summit is a unique opportunity to develop negotiation skills to better equip women to advocate for themselves and their companies.
Protest in Poland for Personal Assistance (enil.eu)
In September 2021 the Polish President Andrzej Duda declared that he is aware of the need for a law that will guarantee access to personal assistance for citizens who need it. The group of experts which is responsible for preparing the draft of an act consist of academic scholars in the field of social sciences and the representatives of the Chancellery of the President. Neither the representatives of the Disabled People organisations nor any individual PA users were appointed to be the group members. For two and half a year the stage of work upon the draft remained silent to the disability community and for the public opinion. Even for the Ministry of Family Matters and Social Affairs. It is worth mentioning that although the Ministry has the same very conservative background as the President, the proposals of the PA system of the further are quite coherent with the CRPD and General Comment 5. Also, the Ministry organised a cross-country yearly pilotage of the proposed PA scheme as well as regular consultations with the PA users.
Editor of British Vogue turned down ads on ‘inclusivity’ grounds (theguardian.com)
Edward Enninful tells BBC he rejected major fashion brands as he promotes May issue featuring disabled cover stars.
Celebrating Judy Heumann and Disability Rights Activism (wid.org)
International disability rights activist and WID’s former International Program Director, Bruce Curtis, reflects on his years in activism alongside Judy Heumann and Ed Roberts and the importance of disability rights activism today.
Disability News and Mental Health, Strike a pose (bbc.co.uk)
Vogue cover star Sinéad Burke with some hot inclusion.
Good life for people with disabilities in Ukraine: online event 26 April on deinstitutionalisation (inclusion-europe.eu)
Online exchange of know-how and experience in developing housing and support for people with disabilities to live independently and be included in the community.
The 7 Principles of Universal Design (youtube.com)
What is universal design? On this episode of Power On, "Professor" Rafael Siegel takes you to Berkeley, California's Ed Roberts Campus to teach the 7 Principles of Universal Design. Learn how to create buildings and interiors for people with disabilities, people who use wheelchairs, and... everybody!
More people with Down syndrome are living longer, but medical systems aren't keeping up (edition.cnn.com)
It took Samantha Lesmeister's family four months to find a medical professional who could see that she was struggling with something more than her Down syndrome.
Respite suspension at Ont. centre for children with disabilities leaves families high and dry (globalnews.ca)
ErinoakKids Centre for Treatment and Development says it's putting a temporary pause on its respite care while it works to expand its services, leaving some families scrambling.
US could soon approve MDMA therapy — opening an era of psychedelic medicine (nature.com)
Perceptions have shifted dramatically in the past few years on the therapeutic value of illicit drugs such as ecstasy. But questions still linger about what FDA approval might look like.
The Search for Long Covid Treatments Takes a Promising Turn (wired.com)
Scientists believe lasting symptoms following a coronavirus infection are not a single disorder. So new clinical trials are hunting for a range of solutions.
‘My Sons Understand You Without Spoken Words’: An Autistic Mother Shares How Her Two Sons Inspired New Children’s Book (essence.com)
A Day With No Words gives an inside look into the life of an Autism family who communicates just as the child does, without spoken language.
YouTube Will Ban Videos Showing ‘Imitable Behavior’ Linked To Eating Disorders Among Young Users (forbes.com)
YouTube’s new rules will ban content that features behavior that can be easily imitated, like purging after eating and severe caloric restriction.
Cancer patients waiting up to six months to be referred (morningstaronline.co.uk)
Cancer patients are waiting years for a diagnosis or treatment as waiting times have worsened every year since the Tories came to power in 2010, an investigation has found.
How the teen mental health crisis is turning some youth pastors into first responders (religionnews.com)
Young people, youth pastors say, are pushing the church to be more willing to talk about mental health.
Disability providers cheers NDIS systemic reforms (disabilityinsider.com)
National Disability Services (NDS) welcomes the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and looks forward to working in partnership with government to deliver on the six key areas of reform announced by Minister Shorten at the National Press Club.
Labour is on the warpath at last. But why is it targeting benefit claimants and disabled people? (theguardian.com)
By reviving scrounger myths and rubbishing free social care, Starmer’s begun a race to the bottom – one the Tories will win, says Guardian columnist France Ryan.
Accessibility For All Is Not A Nice To Have – It Is A Must (www-forbes-com.cdn.ampproject.org)
It is fair to say that there have been many horror stories regarding travel, and an abundance of evidence suggests that people with disabilities are not considered a key customer demographic.
Data Corner for April 2023 (respectability.org)
This month’s Data Corner again examines the tracking data of National Trends In Disability Employment (nTIDE).
Free training sessions: The basics of digital devices and online media (abilitynet.org.uk)
Could someone you know benefit from free events to help boost their online confidence? Sessions coming up in May and June 2023.
Why Homeschooling Works for Our Medically Complex Family (themighty.com)
"This newfound fluid approach has made learning this year much more enjoyable. Here is what worked for us."
Disability passports and adjustment plans: The top 5 things to do (and not do) (businessdisabilityforum.org.uk)
Tailored adjustments plans, disability plans, workplace adjustments plans – whatever you call them, they are a regular topic of discussion with our members across almost every sector.
5 Ways to Encourage Self-Advocacy in Kids (themighty.com)
4. "Start small. Practice advocacy skills in more comfortable settings or conversations. Figure out what works, what is challenging, and areas to improve. From there, build confidence to take on the bigger challenges."
Britain has fewer hospital beds than almost any other rich country – and here’s the reason (voxpoliticalonline.com)
This is from January but is worth reading because it explains a lot: After more than 12 years in power, the Conservative government can be blamed for many of the NHS’s current problems.
The European Disability Forum is preparing a manifesto on the European Elections 2024. Contribute now! (enil.eu)
On 23rd of May the 5th European Parliament of Persons with Disabilities will meet in Brussels. In view of the European elections in 2024, the participants will adopt a manifesto with policy demands on disability rights. The European Disability Forum (EDF) is gathering input from members to prepare the manifesto.
The trials and triumphs of Sophie Morgan: ‘At 18 I had my hot girl summer. That August I was paralysed’ (theguardian.com)
After a car crash, Morgan knew she was exactly the same person – she just couldn’t walk. But she had to convince everyone else. She explains how she became a forthright campaigner and a successful TV presenter.
Best Books for Understanding Autism in Women & Girls (meriahnichols.com)
A short list of reviewed books that help with understanding autism in women and girls. Most are written by actually autistic women.
Inside Cochlear And Google’s Joint Quest To Use Technology To ‘Demystify’ Hearing Health For All (forbes.com)
Late last month, cochlear implant maker Cochlear announced a coalition with Australian Hearing Hub members, National Acoustic Laboratories, Macquarie University, The Shepherd Centre, NextSense, and Google in a collaborative effort to “uncover new solutions to help people with hearing loss.”
Resources and Information - Disabilities in Media (disabilitiesinmedia.com)
In one of the workshops, people with disabilities, filmmakers and researchers developed a downloadable toolkit for portraying disabilities and people with disabilities in films which has been adopted by some filmmakers in the global south.
FDA authorizes 2nd dose of updated Covid booster for older adults (nbcnews.com)
People 65 and up can get a second dose of the updated booster at least four months after their last dose.
Inside Cochlear And Google’s Joint Quest To Use Technology To ‘Demystify’ Hearing Health For All (forbes.com)
Late last month, cochlear implant maker Cochlear announced a coalition with Australian Hearing Hub members, National Acoustic Laboratories, Macquarie University, The Shepherd Centre, NextSense, and Google in a collaborative effort to “uncover new solutions to help people with hearing loss.”
The Marrakesh VIP Treaty: Removing reading barriers for people with vision and print disabilities (disabilityinsider.com)
Imagine a world where information is a luxury that only a few can afford. A world where people with disabilities are denied access to the same information and educational opportunities as others. Unfortunately, this is the reality for millions of people worldwide, including in Bangladesh.
‘Disabled children need to know it is an option’: co-creating the future of dance (theguardian.com)
Frontlinedance works in communities to remove barriers for disabled people and those with long-term health conditions – and there’s no distinction between teacher and learner.