Labour’s cruellest trick: selling welfare cuts as compassion
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
Hand-picked news about inclusion, accessibilty and innovation
The Guardian view of Labour’s cruellest trick: selling welfare cuts as compassion | Editorial (theguardian.com)
Editorial: By defining itself as the party of work, Labour casts those unable to be economically productive – through disability or ill health – as burdens, not individuals with rights
Keir Starmer to unveil drastic disability benefit cuts despite opposition (theguardian.com)
Changes could deny benefits to people who need help to wash or to remember to go to the toilet
Accessible restroom stories: the one about handrails (urevolution.com)
Not all accessible restrooms are truly accessible. Discover real stories highlighting design flaws and what makes a restroom truly inclusive. Read now!
Study reveals two key factors to bridge hiring gap for job seekers with autism (disabilityinsider.com)
People with autism often face an uphill battle when searching for a job, especially during interviews. New Virginia Commonwealth University research underscores the enduring value of employer neurodiversity training when coupled with candidates' disclosure of their autism diagnosis during the hiring process.
Slovakia to host first-ever Women’s World Championships (disabilityinsider.com)
World Para Ice Hockey will make history this year when Dolny Kubin, Slovakia, hosts the first-ever Women’s World Championships. The tournament will feature six teams and will take place at the Winter Stadium from 26-31 August.
The Eugenics Logic Behind Running a Government Like a Startup Under the Trump Administration (disabilityvisibilityproject.com)
Trump’s favorite broligarch Elon Musk is attempting to run the United States like a startup. But America isn’t a startup. It cannot be “scaled up” because it is already at scale. Its people, citizens and residents alike, cannot be fired. It cannot be acquired. Yet reckless and sweeping acts of “disruption” are indeed moving fast and breaking all kinds of vital resources and systems. All the while, the despotic duo make no secret of their disdain for disabled people: the eradication of remote work; the dismantling of the Department of Education and its IEPs and 504 plans; the decimation of USAID; the slashing of medical research funds; the threat to SSRI medication; the ominous insinuation that Social Security disability benefits are rife with fraud along with proposed cuts to Medicaid funding—all of these both signal and kindle indifference for disabled people’s autonomy and survival. Operating a government like a startup means making cuts and staying “lean” to maximize efficiency and productivity, which is precisely the narrative Musk is offering. But as the slashing continues and expands, what will become of those who Trump and Musk decide are dragging down America’s valuation?
I believe Labour cares about those in need, but it must show that. It can’t go on like this | Polly Toynbee (theguardian.com)
Every Labour government improves the lives of those with the least. But the framing and the targeting of these cuts is wrong, says Guardian columnist Polly Toynbee
11th Annual Pace University Disability is Diversity Film Festival (eventbrite.com)
Join Tech Kids Unlimited and Pace University for a celebration of people with disabilities in film, hosted by Pace University!
14th World Down Syndrome Day Conference (webtv.un.org)
The theme for 2025 is: Improve Our Support Systems.
Scientists Say NIH Officials Told Them To Scrub mRNA References on Grants (kffhealthnews.org)
Two senior scientists say National Institutes of Health officials advised them to remove references to mRNA vaccines in grant applications, and they fear the Trump administration will abandon a promising field of medical research.
I found a ‘dead’ person on Social Security in Seattle (seattletimes.com)
“Dead” Ned Johnson turns out to be very much alive. It took him weeks to convince the system he was breathing and to start clawing his benefits back.
She wasn't told she has cancer. She says that could have been a 'death sentence' (cbc.ca)
Experts say the case of a Nova Scotia woman who had to track down her cancer diagnosis underscores that the province still has work to do to ensure better co-ordination within the health-care system, with the well-being of the patients it serves at stake.
As bird flu continues to spread, Trump administration sidelines key pandemic preparedness office (edition.cnn.com)
The Trump administration has not staffed an office established by Congress to prepare the nation for future pandemics, according to three sources familiar with the situation.
Under Trump, Social Security Resumes “Clawback Cruelty” (katiecouric.com)
If the government accidentally overpaid you, say goodbye to your monthly check.
Christine Sun Kim: All Day All Night (whitney.org)
In works full of sharp wit and incisive commentary, Christine Sun Kim (b. 1980, Orange County, California) engages sound and the complexities of communication in its various modes. Using musical notation, infographics, and language—both in her native American Sign Language (ASL) and written English—she has produced drawings, videos, sculptures, and installations that often explore non-auditory, political dimensions of sound. In many works, Kim draws directly on the spatial dynamism of ASL, translating it into graphic form. By emphasizing images, the body, and physical space, she upends the societal assumption that spoken languages are superior to those that are signed. This exhibition surveys Kim’s entire artistic output to date and features works ranging from early 2010s performance documentation to her recent site-responsive mural, Ghost(ed) Notes (2024), re-created across multiple walls on the eighth floor. Inspired by similarly named works made throughout her career, the exhibition’s title, All Day All Night, points to the vitality Kim brings to her artmaking; she is relentlessly experimental, productive, and dedicated to sharing her Deaf lived experiences with others. This exhibition is organized by the Whitney Museum of American Art, New York, and the Walker Art Center, Minneapolis. The organizing curators are Jennie Goldstein, Jennifer Rubio Associate Curator of the Collection, Whitney Museum of American Art; Pavel Pyś, Curator of Visual Arts and Collections Strategy, Walker Art Center; and Tom Finkelpearl, independent curator; with Rose Pallone, Curatorial Assistant, Whitney Museum of American Art, and Brandon Eng, Curatorial Assistant, Walker Art Center. Major support for Christine Sun Kim: All Day All Night is provided by the Ford Foundation, Teiger Foundation, the Terra Foundation for American Art, and the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts. Significant support is provided by the Korea Foundation. In New York, the exhibition is sponsored by Major support is provided by Judy Hart Angelo and the Whitney’s National Committee. Significant support is provided by Marcia Dunn and Jonathan Sobel, the John R. Eckel, Jr. Foundation, Miyoung Lee and Neil Simpkins, and Sueyun and Gene Locks. Generous support is provided by Deutsche Bank Americas Foundation, Further Forward Foundation, Peter H. Kahng, the Samsung Foundation of Culture, and Sonya Yu. Additional support is provided by Jessica and Marwan Bitar, The Cowles Charitable Trust, The Freedman Family, Girlfriend Fund, Suzanne McFayden, Alice and Manu Sareen, Lisa Perry/Onna House, Gina H. Sohn and Gregory P. Lee, Jackson Tang, and an anonymous donor.
E.P.A. Plans to Close All Environmental Justice Offices (nytimes.com)
An internal memo directs the closure of offices designed to ease the heavy pollution faced by poor and minority communities.
Woman says Tinder men vanished when she told them about her wheelchair (dailymail.co.uk)
Kristen Parisi, 30, has used the dating app in New York, Boston, and Los Angeles - and has had the same results in each city. Men immediately vanish when they find out about her disability.
The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia issued a resounding judgment in the class action case Brown, et al v. District of Columbia
Featured Presentation: Digital Accessibility Legal Update: US (youtube.com)
The Center on Disabilities at CSUN is proud to present Wednesday's featured presentation: Digital Accessibility Legal Update: US
Tell us your Medicaid stories (accessliving.org)
Medicaid, a program that helps millions of people with disabilities pay for healthcare, home services, and other needs is under attack in Washington DC. Millions of people are at risk of losing Medicaid.
Three months into 2025, US measles cases surpass total for 2024 (edition.cnn.com)
Three months into 2025, the United States has surpassed the total number of measles cases in the country for all of last year.
Tell Your Legislators: Protect Disabled Students, Preserve The Department of Education (aapd.quorum.us)
We need you to tell your legislators to protect disabled students by opposing efforts to dismantle the Department of Education.
Failed by the SEND system: Five young disabled campaigners tell MPs government must ‘listen to our voices’ (disabilitynewsservice.com)
Five young disabled people who have been failed by the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system have told MPs that the government and education sector must listen to their voices if they want to fix the barriers they have faced.
Measles remains a danger to health even years after an infection (npr.org)
The measles outbreak in Texas and New Mexico is now close to 300 cases. Most are unvaccinated children. People usually recover, but doctors are stressing how dangerous and long-lasting it can be.
Although autistic adults may establish better dyadic rapport with autistic relative to non-autistic partners, it is unclear whether this extends to group settings. The current study examined whether rapport differs between autistic groups, non-autistic groups, and mixed groups of autistic and non-autistic adults, and whether differing diagnostically from the rest of the group results in lower rapport. One hundred and forty-three adults were assigned to one of four group types of four participants each: all-autistic, all-non-autistic, non-autistic majority (three non-autistic, one autistic), and autistic majority (three autistic, one non-autistic). Groups participated in a 5-minute building activity and afterwards completed a 5-item rapport measure assessing their experience. The all-autistic groups did not differ on overall rapport from the all-non-autistic groups and had significantly higher rapport on two items (enjoying the interaction and friendliness of the group) than both types of mixed groups. At the individual level, autistic participants expressed more ease and enjoyment when interacting with other autistic adults relative to non-autistic adults, and their rapport declined as more non-autistic participants were included in the group. In contrast, rapport for non-autistic participants remained relatively consistent regardless of group composition. We discuss potential reasons why autistic participants were more affected by group composition than non-autistic participants.
A law in New York pushes doctors to be upfront about patients' costs (npr.org)
The law originally banned health care providers from forcing patients to agree to pay medical bills, no matter the cost. Consumer groups say an amended version doesn't go far enough.
Heat can age you as much as smoking, a new study finds (npr.org)
Exposure to heat can alter the way your DNA works, according to a new study. The effects could lead to long-term health outcomes.
People with Down Syndrome Rock! (globaldownsyndrome.org)
Upload an action shot of you doing an activity or something special! Selected photos will be featured in Down Syndrome World™ Magazine
Implants can help deaf kids hear—but many still struggle with spoken language (science.org)
Some researchers worry about risks of devaluing sign language, overreliance on imperfect devices
Nearly 150 from Alzheimer's, Related Diseases Community Urge Congress to Reject Medicaid and SNAP Cuts (agingresearch.org)
In a letter sent to U.S. Senate and House leaders and Hill health staff, the Alliance was joined by nearly 150 leading organizations and individuals to urge Congress to oppose any cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), including those called for in the proposed budget resolution.
Scottish comedian calls for increased disabled accessibility in Glasgow venues (scotsman.com)
TikTok star reveals how his brother, who has quadriplegic cerebral palsy and is non-verbal, is often unable to attend shows
Here are 8 photography winners with disabilities who show the world their perspective (kaxe.org)
Here are the winning entries in this year's Global Ability Photography Challenge.
Dept. of Education Staff Cuts and Children With Disabilities (time.com)
Changes at the Education Department may well limit options for families of children with disabilities.
Europe grapples with highest number of measles cases in more than 25 years (news.un.org)
Measles cases in Europe have doubled in just a year, with the highest number reported since 1997, UN agencies announced on Thursday.
The Education Department is being cut in half. Here's what's being lost (whro.org)
The U.S. Education Department's Office for Civil Rights, Institute of Education Sciences and Office of Federal Student Aid were especially impacted by the cuts announced on Tuesday.
Deaf women fought for the right to vote (yahoo.com)
Despite harsh, discriminatory conditions, low pay and lack of appreciation, deaf women have fought with brilliance and dedication for personal and professional recognition, including the right to vote.
New Initiative Empowers Colleges Nationwide to Become Seizure Informed with Seizure Prepared U (prweb.com)
Seizure Prepared U provides comprehensive training and resources to colleges and universities, empowering communities to create safer and more inclusive campuses. Schools that complete the program's training requirements will earn Epilepsy Friendly School Seal of Distinction status, which signifies a strong commitment to student safety and accessibility.
“We built that community”: TMU students with disabilities on self-advocacy as survival (theeyeopener.com)
For some students with disabilities, self-advocacy on campus is not a matter of choice—it’s a means of survival
How new executive orders are affecting disabled transgender people (jhunewsletter.com)
The transgender community has been significantly impacted by Donald Trump's executive orders, emphasizing the need to advocate for those facing injustices. Despite challenges, the LGBTQ+ community has shown resilience. Among the most vulnerable are disabled students, transgender individuals, and veterans, who have been particularly affected without consideration for their mental and physical health.
Fairer Funding Webinar (add.org.uk)
Join us for the first in our #FairerFunding webinar series! We know that disability justice activists are best placed to create positive impact in the lives of people with disabilities.
Cuts to Medicaid and Social Services Target Our Community — Here’s What We Can Do (newmobility.com)
I fear for wheelchair users, the larger disability community, and others. People on low incomes and millions with disabilities, including children and the elderly, will lose life-sustaining benefits through programmatic budget cuts if Congress approves them. The immediate threat to affected people of all ages would be a kind of economic starvation. The massive spending cuts proposed in the House of Representatives budget resolution would likely deplete our government-supported safety nets — Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security and (SNAP) food stamps — and deprive many with disabilities of critically needed support, especially those with lower income levels.
Deaf TikTok star who took poison ‘failed’ by NHS services, inquest hears (theguardian.com)
Imogen Nunn told support worker she had ‘bought something online’ before she died in Brighton, mother says
Settlement Reached in Tennessee Deaf Prisoner Case (legalreader.com)
Three deaf men reached a settlement with TDOC that provides videophones, sign language interpreters, and more for deaf people in TDOC facilities.
A new Texas bill is coming after online abortion pills (19thnews.org)
The measure, introduced Friday in Texas, may be the most meaningful attempt this year to block the ordering and mailing of abortion pills.
Student Senate unanimously calls for “professor accountability” in honoring accommodations (thesunflower.com)
Wichita State’s Student Senate voted unanimously to call for the university to take a stronger stance on honoring students’s disability accommodations.
Stay Silent and Stay Powerless Against Trump’s Tyranny (nader.org)
There are reasons why influential or knowledgeable Americans are staying silent as the worsening fascist dictatorship of the Trumpsters and Musketeers gets more entrenched by the day. Most of these reasons are simple cover for cowardice.
Checking the Facts on Medicaid Use by Latinos (californiahealthline.org)
Republicans’ moves to scale back Medicaid are leading to more misinformation about immigrants, especially Latinos, circulating on social media platforms. The misconceptions include the myths that Latinos covered by Medicaid don’t work and that they use Medicaid significantly more than others.
Eight countries could run out of HIV treatments due to USAID cuts, WHO says (reuters.com)
The Trump administration's decision to pause U.S. foreign aid has "substantially disrupted" supply of HIV treatments in eight countries, which could soon run out of these life-saving medicines, the World Health Organization said on Monday.
FAO warns of ‘unprecedented’ avian flu spread, in call for global action (news.un.org)
The rapid spread of the highly infectious avian flu virus H5N1 has reached an “unprecedented” scale, wiping out hundreds of millions of birds worldwide and increasingly spilling over into mammals, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) warned on Monday.
Students With Visual Impairment Learn To Navigate Streets Without Audible Warning Signals (disabilityscoop.com)
Middle and high school students with visual impairment are learning how to make their way independently on busy streets using physical and auditory cues to assess when it's safe to cross.
Billboards In Several Major Cities To Showcase People With Down Syndrome (disabilityscoop.com)
The accomplishments of individuals with Down syndrome will be on display in a big way as part of an awareness campaign springing up in cities across the country.
With Help Of Therapy Dogs, Schools See Behavioral Problems Ease (disabilityscoop.com)
In search of a different approach for kids with disabilities, an educator turned to therapy dogs. A decade later, his program is a national model and he mentors about 100 schools with similar offerings.
Federal Proposal Could Threaten Paratransit Partnerships With Uber, Lyft (disabilityscoop.com)
Paratransit systems in more than 80 cities coordinate with Uber and Lyft to provide immediate trips for people with disabilities. But a proposed rule could jeopardize those arrangements.
The Ambassador Talks (amoraju.com)
Kalwinder Singh Dhindsa
Labour is gaslighting disabled people – and that should terrify us all (theguardian.com)
The messaging that suggests poverty is caused by low aspiration and that disability is a choice could have come straight from the Conservatives’ playbook, writes Zoe Williams
Ballet, beauty, and the joy of wheelchair dance (wellcomecollection.org)
Since childhood, Kate Stanforth has danced whenever and wherever she could. The only difference now is her wheelchair.
A Mission to Redefine Mobility (ablemagazine.co.uk)
Phil Eaglesham’s vision is simple: to empower wheelchair users to live without compromise. As Conquering Horizons opens for orders, he invites you to experience the future of mobility, with Omni.
Disability Voting News: March 12, 2025 (sarahblahovec.com)
Welcome to the first real edition of The Accessible Voting Booth! I’m excited to dive into what is happening this week and how it’s impacting voters with disabilities. This blog is a little bit of a “building the plane while flying it” moment for me. I really love talking about disability voting rights and getting down into the details, but I realize a lot of folks may find this tedious. To make this a little more fun, I’ve decided to share reaction images from my dog, Oliver (and I may reach back into the archives for reactions from my charismatic schnauzers who have crossed the rainbow bridge, Harpo and Cassie). With that, let’s begin!
Which benefits is Keir Starmer’s government planning to cut and why? (theguardian.com)
PM is under increasing pressure over targeting of incapacity and disability benefits. We look at some key questionsUK politics live – latest updates
‘Not just about cuts’: Liz Kendall says benefits changes will help people find jobs (theguardian.com)
Welfare secretary visits Northampton centre helping out-of-work people develop skills, saying it is part of new approach
Accessibility as a Foundation of Inclusion (respectability.org)
Accessibility is not just a checklist to tick off; it is an ongoing commitment to ensuring that all members, from every background and belief, feel truly valued and embraced. Every individual, regardless of ability, should have the opportunity to fully engage in worship, rituals, traditions, and community life. Creating and nurturing an accessible faith community is a profound testament to the power of inclusion, the depth of belonging, and the strength of our shared humanity.
AXSChat with Daniel Mont (axschat.com)
Daniel Mont is the CEO and co-founder of the Center for Inclusive Policy which supports national and international stakeholders in ensuring that public policies and development programs foster the full and effective inclusion of all persons with disabilities in line with the CRPD and other human rights frameworks. He specializes in disability data collection, and supporting the design, implementation and evaluation of disability inclusive policies in low and middle income countries. He previously was a senior economist with the World Bank, the director of the workers’ compensation project at the National Academy of Social Insurance, a principal analyst with the US Congressional Budget Office, and an assistant professor at Cornell University. He has worked with the Washington Group on Disability Statistics since practically its inception, and served as the chair of its analytical and labor statistics working groups, and as a member of the team that developed the UNICEF/WG Child Functioning Module and Inclusive Education Modules. His research on disability measurement and the impact of disability on people’s lives is published widely, and he has been involved in training numerous Organizations of Persons with Disabilities, national statistics offices, and other development stakeholders on inclusive policies. He holds a PhD in economics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a BA from Swarthmore College.
A nonprofit research organization (openresearchlab.org)
OpenResearch is a nonprofit research lab that seeks to answer open-ended questions.
SXSW Conference & Festivals (sxsw.com)
Celebrate the convergence of the tech, film, and music industries at SXSW 2025 from March 7-15 in Austin, Texas.
Cash For All: Reimagining the Social Safety Net (schedule.sxsw.com)
How can cash in hand transform the lives of low-income Americans? This panel dives deep into the data, exploring the tangible and intangible impacts of cash assistance and how these insights can revolutionize our approach to vital social safety net programs like Medicaid and SNAP—especially at a time when these programs face critical challenges. We'll examine how guaranteed income creates a ripple effect, touching everything from socioeconomic stability and family choices to employment prospects.
Supporting New York’s Deaf and Disabled Artists (creativesrebuildny.org)
Since Artist-Organizer Kevin Gotkin joined CRNY in 2022, they have been working on a range of projects that help us understand and support the lives and livelihoods of Deaf and disabled artists.
Disabled Not Welcome - Fighting Ableism 1 Click At A Time (schedule.sxsw.com)
Access to arts and culture should be a fundamental human right, not a privilege or an exhausting process of constantly fighting against societal and attitudinal barriers for the right to attend.
The Anti-Ableist Manifesto: Making Disability Advocacy Accessible for All (schedule.sxsw.com)
Disability advocacy isn’t just for disabled people—it’s for everyone. In this session, The Anti-Ableist Manifesto author, disability advocate, and TED speaker Tiffany Yu unpacks and challenges ableism, presenting a bold vision for a world where everyone can thrive.
Deaf President Now! (apple.com)
The story of the greatest civil rights movement most people have never heard of.
AI Big Bets in Health Care: Tech and Pharma Debate (schedule.sxsw.com)
SXSW 2025 Schedule | Beyond the headlines - what are the real advancements in AI and technology that will drive innovation in health care? This session delves into the profound impact of AI in shaping the future of health care from drug discovery and beyond, showcasing real-life examples from Lilly and across the industry, including what may help and hinder progress.
Insulin prices are deadly high—but mutual aid is keeping diabetics alive (motherjones.com)
One in six Americans on insulin has to ration it. That can kill you.
OPEN CALL – Performer con disabilità motoria (chiarabersani.it)
Per la nuova creazione di Chiara Bersani, cerchiamo performer con disabilità fisica e motoria da inserire nella produzione e relativa tournée.
CripTech Creativity: Rethinking Access through Art and Technology (khi.fi.it)
Organized by Virginia Marano and the Lise Meitner Group "Coded Objects"
Technoableism Scavenger Hunt (events.georgetown.edu)
Join the DCC and Disability Studies as we host Drs. Ashley Shew and Elizabeth McLain for a Technoableism Scavenger Hunt! Specializing in disability studies and technology ethics, Shew’s recent book Against Technoableism: Rethinking Who Needs Improvement (2023) and forthcoming open textbook, co-edited with Hanna Herdegen, Technology and Disability, both focus on the stories disabled people tell about technologies that people do not always expect.
After Backlash, NEA Drops Anti-Trans Grant Requirement (hyperallergic.com)
However, the agency could still reject projects seen as non-compliant with Trump’s “gender ideology” mandate.
Wendy Williams, Her Guardian, and the Age of the Celebrity Conservatorship (vanityfair.com)
Until she was assigned her most vocal charge in a post–#FreeBritney world, elder-law attorney Sabrina Morrissey worked in anonymity.
Wendy Williams talks guardianship, gives health update on 'The View' (abcnews.go.com)
Wendy Williams joined "The View" to discuss her guardianship and give an update on her health after a trip to the hospital this week.
Starmer urged to introduce wealth tax instead of cutting disability benefits (theguardian.com)
Diane Abbott says a wealth tax of 2% on people with assets over £10m would raise £24bn a year
Beyond 6 Seconds: Neurodiversity stories from neurodivergent people: Neurodiversity-affirming support for autism and ADHD – with Samar Waqar of Kind Theory (sites.libsyn.com)
This episode is part of the 3rd edition of Podcasthon: a global effort among 1000+ podcast hosts to raise awareness and support for important causes by highlighting a charity of their choice during the same week (March 15-21, 2025). Today’s episode features Samar Waqar, the Founder and Executive Director of Kind Theory, a neurodiversity-based nonprofit based in Texas. Using the insights and knowledge of neurodivergent people themselves, Kind Theory educates organizations, institutions, and the general public about neurodiversity, accessibility, and disability rights as these relate to autism and ADHD. In doing so, it improves educational, health, and employment outcomes for these marginalized members of our community.
Cutting benefits is ‘not a Labour thing to do’, says Diane Abbott (theguardian.com)
Party’s longest-serving MP says she agrees with Ed Balls and Andy Burnham, who have criticised planned welfare cuts
How far will Starmer risk pushing Labour MPs to swallow welfare cuts? (theguardian.com)
Many MPs will feel that pushing people in to poverty to balance the books is not what they came into politics to do
US measles cases jump 35% in a week: Now found in 12 states (medicalxpress.com)
U.S. measles cases jumped by a third over the past week, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data, a worrying sign in the outbreak that's already linked to two deaths.
Dissent Is Patriotic: 50 Books About Girls & Women Who Fought for Change (amightygirl.com)
A Mighty Girl's top picks of books for children and teens about real-life girls and women who fought for a more just, equal, and peaceful world.
Heroism Begins With Her: Inspiring Stories of Bold, Brave, and Gutsy Women in the U.S. Military (amightygirl.com)
From the Revolutionary War to present day, women have proudly served in the United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard as nurses, pilots, engineers, soldiers, and more. They dressed as men, worked for little pay and no benefits, and endured prejudice to break down barriers and earn their place beside their fellow servicemen. The achievements and courageous acts of these women forever changed the way the military operates!
A Life of Service: The Story of Senator Tammy Duckworth (amightygirl.com)
Tammy Duckworth joined the Army determined to make a difference — but in the midst of her service, she suffered a devastating injury. She recovered, adapted to her new prosthetics, and set her sights on another way she could serve: politics. She became the first Thai American member of Congress and the first woman with a disability to serve in the House and Senate. And she even pushed to change the Senate chamber rules to allow her to bring her 10-day-old daughter in, so she could be there for a critical vote!
Every Day Is a Gift (amightygirl.com)
In November of 2004, an Iraqi RPG blew through the cockpit of Tammy Duckworth's U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter. The explosion, which destroyed her legs and mangled her right arm, was a turning point in her life. But as Duckworth shows in Every Day Is a Gift, that moment was just one in a lifetime of extraordinary turns. The biracial daughter of an American father and a Thai-Chinese mother, Duckworth faced discrimination, poverty, and the horrors of war — all before the age of 16. Through these experiences, she developed a fierce resilience that would prove invaluable in the years to come.
NIH to terminate or limit grants related to vaccine hesitancy and uptake (washingtonpost.com)
The order covers more than 40 awards to researchers around the country seeking to understand why vaccine acceptance has declined.
Disabled Americans fear losing protections if states’ lawsuit succeeds (washingtonpost.com)
An ongoing lawsuit challenges Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which legally mandates access and accommodations across wide swaths of the public.
Kennedy downplays immunity from vaccination as measles outbreak grows (edition.cnn.com)
Cases in the ongoing measles outbreak have risen to 258 across Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma, and state health departments are urging more people to get the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine.
Unionized ASL interpreters say Clovis Unified outsourced positions remotely with higher pay (aol.com)
The Association of Clovis Educators representing district-employed interpreters is negotiating its first contract.
US Social Security says it will retain most phone services (reuters.com)
The U.S. Social Security Administration said on Wednesday that it will no longer process changes to direct-deposit routing numbers over the phone, but its other telephone services would remain unchanged.
An urgent argument for the HPV vaccine (npr.org)
Data shows it can prevent six types of cancer. But anti-vaccine activists, including U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., have helped dampen its usage.
Young People Are Fleeing States With Abortion Restrictions (msmagazine.com)
One in five individuals planning to have children within the next decade has moved—or knows someone who has moved—to another state due to abortion restrictions. Characterizing the exodus as a “brain drain,” Dr. Jamila K. Taylor, president and CEO of Institute for Women’s Policy Research, warned employers: “Our report makes it clear that companies who fail to address these needs risk losing their competitive edge. To build a resilient workforce and thriving economy, it’s up to corporate leaders and lawmakers to take decisive action and make reproductive healthcare a top priority.”
Gerald Garth is determined to keep people of color happy and healthy through trying times (hivplusmag.com)
As the executive director of AMAAD, the writer and health advocate continues to bring positivity and hope to the Black queer community and beyond.
A Timeline Of Elon Musk’s Terrible 24 Hours—A Dark Day For X, Tesla And More (forbes.com)
There’s a “black cloud over Tesla’s stock,” remarked one analyst as Musk’s primary company suffered its worst loss since 2020, while Musk’s X attack on Sen. Mark Kelly and a halting appearance on Fox Business did him no favors.
‘Students will suffer harm’: Education Department’s civil rights office gutted by layoffs, closures (edition.cnn.com)
The Education Department’s civil rights office has been among the hardest hit by layoffs, with the Trump administration shuttering seven of its 12 regional offices and laying off nearly half of its staff.
The Poison Pill in the Peanut Butter: A Culture-War Lawsuit Quietly Threatens Disability Rights (fedsoc.org)
When a dog doesn’t want to take a pill, you coat it in peanut butter. The rube wants the peanut butter and—if you’re lucky—swallows the pill without even realizing it. A recent lawsuit by seventeen states against longstanding protections for disabled Americans uses culture war as its peanut butter and hopes no one will notice the poison pill tucked inside.
Investing in the disability beat (niemanlab.org)
"Using the right language isn’t the be-all and end-all of better disability reporting."
Inside the DOGE Threat to Social Security (newyorker.com)
A day in the life of a claims rep for America’s largest government program.
To Tell My Disabled Stories, I Needed to Unlearn Ableist Workshop Critiques (electricliterature.com)
I masked in workshop and on the page, even as it invalidated my lived experience
Ohlone College debuts nation’s first Deaf-centered Interpreting Preparation Program (tricityvoice.com)
Ohlone College debuts nation’s first Deaf-centered Interpreting Preparation Program: Program prioritizes Deaf perspectives and leadership
Concealing Gender Non-Conformity: A Trans Phenomenology of Disability (pdcnet.org)
Cissexist perception involves a prejudicial judgment and an unmediated affective response, such as that of disgust, directed at the gendered aspects of another person. In this paper, I advance a view of how cissexist perception harms disabled people. On this view, there at least two morally problematic aspects of cissexist perception: that it has painful effects, and that it restricts bodily agency. I defend this claim through an analysis of a double bind faced by people subjected to cissexist perception: on the one hand, such individuals are pressured into avoiding certain environments to dodge dangerous predicaments that can arise on behalf of looking different from others; this constitutes unfair exclusion from an environment and under some conditions causes pain. On the other hand, to avoid dangerous predicaments, targets of cissexist perception are pressured into concealing their gender non-conformity to fit into certain environments; concealing frustrates their bodily agency. I conclude with remarks about how trans-affirming artwork may have the capacity to interrupt cissexist perception.
US FDA makes recommendations for influenza vaccines to manufacturers (reuters.com)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Thursday made recommendations to vaccine manufacturers for the virus strains to be used in influenza vaccines for the 2025-2026 flu season in the United States.
Don’t tell me what I can’t do! – The impact of deficits thinking and disability (yennpurkis.home.blog)
For many years I thought I couldn’t manage staff. The reason for this was a housemate I had telling me I could be public servant but I couldn’t manage staff because I am autistic, and autistic people can’t manage staff – apparently! I took this on board and cultivated a lot of internalised ableism around why I must be an absolutely horrible manager due to my autism. Yup, some advocate, I know!! I would never say or think that about other autistic people but when it came to myself, I went along with the assumptions and stereotypes around autism and management. This was over 15 years ago, and it is only very recently that I have realised I am a very good manager of staff! I would avoid going for jobs which involved managing staff thinking I couldn’t do them. I have learned that I am actually a very empathic, respectful, available and effective manager of staff. Feedback on my performance from staff I have managed was overwhelmingly positive. I can have difficult conversations and be supportive. I have also been a harassment contact officer in a government department which involved a lot of people management skills, and I was so good at that I was asked to be one of the two program coordinators for the harassment contact officers! These are not attributes indicative of a poor manager of staff, autistic or otherwise.
This common infection is actually an STI (nationalgeographic.com)
For decades, bacterial vaginosis has been treated as a women’s health issue—but new research suggests treating male partners could dramatically cut recurrence rates.
Ginger Lane: On disability, dance, and the fight for the ADA (accessliving.org)
"I want to create work that challenges an audience to think about the myths and stereotypes they have about disability."
Just a Reminder That RFK Jr. Thinks Poppers Cause AIDS (them.us)
Trump’s pick for Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services also has claimed that chemicals in water turn kids gay and refers to puberty blockers as “castration drugs.”
‘We’re on the edge of chaos’: families with trans kids fight for care as bans take hold (theguardian.com)
A federal judge blocked Donald Trump’s executive order banning trans youth healthcare, but access remains uncertain
San Antonio native, Texas State student set to make Fiesta royalty history (ksat.com)
Former Churchill High School grad Gabriella Banda will become the first deaf queen in the 67-year history of the San Antonio Lutheran Coronation Association on Saturday.
Parents deported to Mexico while seeking brain cancer treatment for young American daughter (edition.cnn.com)
The undocumented parents of a 10-year-old US citizen whose family was removed to Mexico say they are desperately seeking a way for either of them to return to the US with the girl so she can continue brain cancer treatment.
Playhouse Creatures Theatre Company (playhousecreatures.org)
NYC-based, mission-driven theatre company dedicated to strengthening the legacy of the American theatre, while serving our local community.
Newborn babies exposed to measles in Texas hospital (nbcnews.com)
Infants barely three days old are receiving antibody injections to help protect against the virus. Nearly 300 cases have been reported in the outbreak.
Georgia moves closer to phase out subminimum wage for people with disabilities (fox5atlanta.com)
The "Dignity and Pay Act" would phase out a decades-old program that allows some employers to pay people with disabilities well below the federal minimum wage, with some receiving as little as 22 cents an hour.
The most likely Medicaid cuts would hit rural areas the hardest (stateline.org)
Working-age adults who live in small towns and rural areas are more likely to be covered by Medicaid than their counterparts in cities, creating a dilemma for Republicans looking to make deep cuts to the health care program.
How People with Disabilities Helped Win World War II (pbs.org)
Rosie the Riveter called women to join the workforce during World War II. But there was another recruitment campaign aimed at mobilizing millions of Americans previously deemed “ineligible” for military service. Over three million people with disabilities joined the war effort on the homefront, playing a crucial role in wartime production.
This Startup Lets Paralyzed People Use Computers–Without A Chip In Their Head (forbes.com)
Startup Cognixion, which has developed a noninvasive brain-computer interface, has begun a clinical trial for patients with ALS.
Duo Become First Reporters With Down Syndrome at Local News Station (themighty.com)
Hanna Atkinson and Connor Long, two Special Olympics athletes, becomes the first reporters with Down Syndrome to work at Denver7 News in Colorado.
Sex and disability: it's about communication and experimentation (disabilityhorizons.com)
Sex in films is romantic, passionate and above all, flawless. But in real life, no matter who you are, it’s never that ‘perfect’. It can however, be as thrilling and adventurous as you want it to be, with a little tinkering (oh er!) and finding out what works best for you and your partner…
Employees with disabilities can have a positive impact on profitability (theglobeandmail.com)
More than 15 per cent of Canadians have a disability. So why do employers continue to ignore or fear such a large and untapped labour talent pool?
Löffeltage (kaiserinnenreich.de)
Ein Gastbeitrag von Hannah (Instagram @wunderlauschen). Ich, Simone, durfte Hannah bei der Reha meines Sohnes als Therapeutin kennenlernen und habe unheimlich viel von ihr mitnehmen dürfen. Hannah schreibt auf ihrem Blog Wunderlauschen über Begegnungen und die Begegnung mit Hannah war für mich definitiv auch eine wundersame.
Long Covid is the pandemic’s dark shadow. Why does no one in power in Britain want to talk about it? (theguardian.com)
Five years after the first lockdown, millions of lives are still being ruined by this debilitating disease. You wouldn’t know it, says Guardian columnist Frances Ryan
Many said the Starmer era would be just Tory-lite – now it’s worse than that. Time to stop the pretence (theguardian.com)
He’ll be radical, the PM’s allies vlaimed told us. Well, look now, as the poor are targeted and ministers boast of wearing Tory clothes better than the Tories, says Guardian columnist Nesrine Malik
Benefit cuts will push more people into poverty, warns Citizens Advice boss (theguardian.com)
Exclusive: Clare Moriarty hits out at Labour’s plan as ‘short-term action’ with ‘long-term consequences’ in rare intervention
Extreme heat increases heart disease burden (disabilityinsider.com)
The number of people impacted by cardiovascular disease caused by hot weather is expected to double by the middle of the century if current climate trends continue, according to new research from the University of Adelaide.
Job interviews can be a hurdle for people with autism (disabilityinsider.com)
A job interview can make anyone anxious. For people with autism, an interview can be extra stressful. They might avoid eye contact, or rush when they speak. They could miss social cues, or fidget to cope with discomfort from noise or lights. And research has shown that an interview often evaluates a candidate more on their social skills than their abilities for the job.
How to Explain Fibromyalgia to Your Husband – A Guide (urevolution.com)
Struggling to explain fibromyalgia to your husband? This guide helps him understand your pain, fatigue, and needs—so he can truly support you.
Starmer to drive through welfare cuts that could affect UK’s most severely disabled (theguardian.com)
PM faces backlash over plans to tighten eligibility, potentially leaving over 600,000 claimants £675 a month worse off
Experts criticise Streeting for saying mental health problems overdiagnosed (theguardian.com)
Health secretary’s comments that too many people are ‘written off’ prompts warnings against stigmatising people
OUTFRONT Media and National Down Syndrome Society Partner on Powerful Billboard Campaign (investor.outfront.com)
From Saturday, March 15 to World Down Syndrome Day on Friday, March, 21, the billboards will spotlight five individuals in their hometowns to raise awareness of Down syndrome. The campaign's message – "I Got That Extra" – highlights the extra traits that come with the copy of chromosome 21 in people with Down syndrome and celebrates the profound impacts these individuals make in our local communities. The creative is produced by OUTFRONT STUDIOS, OUTFRONT's in-house creative agency.
Daxbots collect accessibility, project planning data while roaming around campus (thedailytexan.com)
Strolling about, maneuvering past students running to class and greeting others as they pass by, small robots roll around campus, working hard to complete their jobs like the rest of society.
Hearing disability not stopping Frank Popkie from chasing his OHL dream (baytoday.ca)
'I believe that disabilities aren’t always a wall blocking you from success, more so just a different path'
Disability Books for Teens and Kids (bookriot.com)
Three excellent books for children and teens centering the disability experience.
I'm a Disabled Woman. Is That My Brand? (time.com)
"Am I squandering the power of my voice when I speak about anything else?"
20 signs that you should talk to someone about your mental health (msn.com)
Talking to someone about your mental health and the issues you may be facing isn’t a sign of weakness or something to be ashamed of. It’s the exact opposite. Admitting you need help—and recognizing the signs your body is struggling—is critical to enhancing and improving your well-being. Here are 20 things to think about. (Note: we are not medical professionals, so please discuss these with your closest healthcare professional.)
In Karnataka, efforts on to combat the challenge of a hidden disability in newborns: hearing impairment (thehindu.com)
Under the NBS, newborns are screened for communication disorders before they are discharged from the hospital. For this, AIISH has collaborated with several hospitals to conduct screening which is performed to detect hearing impairment and other developmental disabilities that can affect speech and language development. The screening has been helping in early intervention for those identified with the disorders, as any delay in the identification poses risk and affects successful management of children with hearing loss, according to AIISH.
Shining a light on the intersection of gender and disability, the world’s largest photography and visual arts competition focused on gender has returned for its fifth year.
Alumnus’s accessibility journey takes him full circle at Saskatchewan Polytechnic (saskpolytech.ca)
When Jason Hull meets students in his Accessibility Services office at Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Prince Albert campus, he is sometimes reminded of his younger self. As an accessibility support advisor, Hull helps students find and access resources to help them succeed in their programs. Whether they are struggling with physical challenges such as mobility or vision differences, or needing support with learning challenges, including specific learning disorders, Hull works with each student to put a plan in place that will ensure equal access to appropriate supports and services to meet their individual needs.
UK faces hard choices over soaring disability costs (reuters.com)
Britain's government wants to tame its ballooning bill for supporting people with disabilities and long-term health conditions which, despite the cost, leaves many claimants distressed or struggling to find work.
AI and Translation Tech Are Transforming Accessibility in AV (ravepubs.com)
As I virtually watched colleagues and friends jet off to Barcelona last month, I thought about the interconnected aspects of our world. We can hop on a plane in the U.S. and — within hours — be anywhere in the world. I have never been to Barcelona. In fact, have only been to one other country whose primary language is not English. That is not completely by accident; I have historically been uncomfortable visiting a country in which I do not speak the language. I remember being in Seoul and not being able to place a simple order for coffee with cream; luckily we had people with us who assisted us with the language barrier. So, as I watched some of what was exhibited at ISE, I was keeping a particularly keen eye on assistive listening and translation devices. Of particular interest to me are Apple AirPods, Listen Technologies’ ListenWIFI and Vicom’s SurtitleSeat. I realize that the AirPods were not released at ISE, but I believe the added audio features and ubiquity of Apple devices require they make the list.
With ‘Mayhem,’ Lady Gaga brings popstar flair to her disability (xtramagazine.com)
On "Abracadabra" and "Disease," Gaga struggles with a doubled version of herself. As a disabled person, I feel seen
Michael Prince named to Order of Canada (uvic.ca)
Over his 38 years at UVic, the acting dean of the Faculty of Human and Social Development (HSD) has built a reputation as a social and public policy expert who cares about equity issues, from child poverty and housing to veterans' supports and disability rights. On Dec 18, Governor General Mary Simon honoured Prince's long career by making him a member of the Order of Canada.
How to Ask for Assistance During a Temporary Disability (nextavenue.org)
The hardest part of receiving help may be asking for it
Connemara man talks about living with disability in TG4 documentary (galwaydaily.com)
Connemara man Pádraic Óg Ó Corrduibh shares his experience living and working with a disability in a new TG4 documentary on next week.
Inclusive typefaces that we know and love (sirkotsky.substack.com)
What makes a typeface accessible, and why making informed choices is so tough
Labour’s plan to overhaul long-term benefits is laudable, putting a moral slant on it is not (theguardian.com)
Painting a veneer of morality over welfare cuts risks people fighting a tougher battle for support they need
‘Labour is deserting me’: disabled people fear impact of Pip changes (theguardian.com)
As the government weighs benefit cuts, many warn of impact on independence and employment
Nicola Jennings on Labour’s proposed benefit cuts – cartoon (theguardian.com)
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has been accused of betraying Labour values with plans to cut benefits for disabled people
Wes Streeting: there is overdiagnosis of mental health conditions (theguardian.com)
Health secretary says too many people are being ‘written off’ and that is driving ministers’ changes to welfare
GB Hit The Slopes Ahead Of The 2026 Winter Paralympics (criplife.co.uk)
ParalympicsGB is making waves on the international stage, pushing their limits in pursuit of Paralympic glory at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics.
Accessible PowerPoint Presentations (uit.stanford.edu)
This documentation was created using Microsoft PowerPoint 365 for macOS.Microsoft PowerPoint includes options for adding accessibility information to slides to support access by individuals with disabilities. This information also ensures that Microsoft PowerPoint files maintain a level of accessibility when converted into other formats (e.g., tagged PDF). Creating accessible PowerPoint presentations can be accomplished by incorporating the following practices into your authoring process.
The Portland Trail Blazers have teamed up with Ticketmaster and OneCourt to become the first professional sports team to provide OneCourt’s haptic display at every home game for Blind or Low Vision fans. This cutting-edge technology enables fans who are Blind or Low Vision to experience live basketball action in real-time, at no additional cost. Click HERE for photos for media use.
EU-Vorgaben für die Barrierefreiheit von Websites (solidaris.de)
Was sich wie ein weiteres Bürokratiestärkungsgesetz liest, kommt als Tandem daher und hört auf die Namen Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG) und Verordnung zum Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSGV). Gemeinsam dienen sie der Umsetzung der EU-Richtlinie 2019/882 über die Barrierefreiheitsanforderungen für Produkte und Dienstleistungen, die ihrerseits mehrere Ziele verfolgt: die Umsetzung von Verpflichtungen aus der Behindertenrechtskonvention der Vereinten Nationen und die Harmonisierung des Binnenmarktes im Bereich der Barrierefreiheit.
Automatisierte Barrierefreiheitstests: Drei Ansätze und zusätzliche Überlegungen (informatik-aktuell.de)
Barrierefreiheitsprobleme sollten frühzeitig erkannt und behoben werden. Zahlreiche Tools unterstützen dabei und helfen, barrierefreie Software zu entwickeln.
Was das Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz für die Finanzbranche bedeutet (der-bank-blog.de)
Der barrierefreie Zugang zu digitalen Dienstleistungen ist ab Juni 2025 verpflichtend. Somit stehen Finanzdienstleister vor umfassenden Herausforderungen: Wie schaffen Finanzdienstleister die erfolgreiche Umsetzung und Verankerung in ihrem Geschäftsmodell?
Barrierefreiheit: Neue Marktüberwachungsstelle ab 2025 (haerting.de)
Ab dem 28.06.2025 kontrolliert eine neue Behörde die Barrierefreiheit von Webshops & digitalen Angeboten. Drohen Bußgelder? Hier erfahren Sie mehr!
W3C Publishes Collaboration Tools Accessibility User Requirements (CTAUR) Note (accessibility.org.au)
The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) has announced the publication of the Collaboration Tools Accessibility User Requirements (CTAUR) Note, which outlines accessibility user needs, requirements, and scenarios for collaborative content creation and development tools. This published Note focuses on features and capabilities unique to interactive, real-time, or asynchronous collaborative applications,…
Using large language models to accelerate communication for eye gaze typing users with ALS (nature.com)
Individuals with severe motor impairments use gaze to type and communicate. This paper presents a large language model-based user interface that enables gaze typing in highly abbreviated forms, achieving significant motor saving and speed gain.
Empowering or Excluding: New Research and Principles for Inclusive AI (afb.org)
In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) systems have grown in capability and versatility. As the capabilities of AI and automated systems expand, there is much excitement about the potential for autonomous vehicles, AI-enabled tools at school and in the workplace, and other innovations that could increase human efficiency. Many of these new technologies can help promote inclusion and accessibility. However, like all new technologies, AI can also pose risks for people with disabilities.
Accessibility in plain language for programs [Updated + 2025] (thebookonaccessibility.com)
Measure accessibility at enterprise (or any) scale
Focus styles and programmatic focus (fullystacked.net)
:focus, :focus-visible and the JavaScript .focus() method
A disability-inclusive Artificial Intelligence Act: A guide to monitor implementation in your country (edf-feph.org)
The European Disability Forum (EDF) has created a comprehensive guide to support organisations of persons with disabilities in understanding, implementing, and monitoring the European Union’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act within their countries.
The Current State of AI And What It Means For The Future of Accessibility (at-newswire.com)
Here, Aaron Di Blasi, Publisher for the AI-Weekly, Top Tech Tidbits and Access Information News weekly newsletters, breaks down how artificial intelligence is transforming accessibility for people with disabilities, from adaptive learning tools to generative creativity platforms. The article explores the technical, societal, and ethical dimensions of AI's potential while addressing challenges such as bias, scalability, and regulatory frameworks, offering a roadmap to a more inclusive future.
AI chatbots may ease the world’s loneliness (if they don’t make it worse) (freethink.com)
Man seeking meaningful relationship at the intersection of on-demand empathy and Rule 34.
HTML to PDF API - High-Quality PDF Conversion with PrinceXML (docraptor.com)
Free and powerful HTML to PDF converter with CSS Paged Media support. SOC2 and HIPAA compliant with guaranteed uptime.
Personalization and Accessibility: Are Banking Apps Doing Enough? (thefinancialbrand.com)
How are financial institutions faring in this often-overlooked component of the digital banking experience?
Software accessibility for users with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADHD) (uxdesign.cc)
Let’s focus on cognitive accessibility of digital products and how to make them better for users with ADHD.
End-to-end testing leveled up the way Asana engineers think about accessibility (assistivlabs.com)
Before partnering with Assistiv Labs, Asana’s accessibility team generally grouped testing into two categories: automated and manual. Assistiv Labs’ end-to-end accessibility testing service has helped produce a testing workflow that redefines automated and manual. Because accessibility feedback loops are shorter, bugs are resolved faster.
GUIDE: Building an Accessibility Champions Network (abilitynet.org.uk)
Our free guide to Accessibility Champions Networks is based on interviews with key staff at the BBC, Google, Intuit, Microsoft and Ubisoft. We ask them how they built their networks and what benefits they bring to their organisations. They share their stories about how their networks developed and how they are helping to change culture from within.
Disability advice and advocacy: where to go for help (disabilityhorizons.com)
With government cuts biting into councils and care budgets, Disability Horizons writer Nichola Daunton explores the advice and advocacy options available for those who need support, wish to challenge a decision, or feel they’ve been treated unfairly…
Why is Keir Starmer’s government seeking to cut the benefits bill? (theguardian.com)
Labour targeting sickness and disability benefits that have ballooned amid increasingly ageing and unwell population
Disability in later life: continuing to play music after becoming disabled (disabilityhorizons.com)
Disability Horizons reader Vanessa tells us about her struggle with developing a disability later in life, but still being able to play music.
The Guardian view on Labour’s welfare plans: betraying the vulnerable (theguardian.com)
Editorial: Sir Keir Starmer’s suggested benefit cuts are deeply unfair to poor, sick and disabled people – and ignore expert warnings that these measures won’t boost employment
SETDA guide offers quality indicators for edtech evaluations (educatingalllearners.org)
The resource helps school leaders ensure that tools and products support instructional practice and goals.
The great mobility scooter debate (disabilityhorizons.com)
Are mobility scooters a lifeline or a pavement problem? The legal rights, common myths, and solutions for better accessibility.
Why Friends Abandon You During Illness (urevolution.com)
Why do friends abandon you when you're sick? Explore the emotional impact of losing friendships during chronic illness and how to cope with abandonment.
Keir Starmer could face biggest rebellion over disability benefit freeze (theguardian.com)
Exclusive: Dozens of Labour MPs understood to have urged the government to think again
‘There is no moral case’: Labour divided over prospect of benefit cuts (theguardian.com)
Some feel the party is moving away from the working class, but others argue ministers must show new Labour voters the system can work
Funny Responses to 'What Do You Do for a Living?' 😂 (urevolution.com)
Tired of boring job talk? Discover hilarious, witty responses to “What do you do for a living?” Perfect for parties, networking & dodging awkward convos! 😆
The Lifting Of Covid-19 Restrictions Is Lifting My Stress Level Up (disabilityhorizons.com)
All Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted in England and Northern Ireland, and this will be the case in Scotland and Wales from the end of March. Our writer Raya, who has muscular dystrophy and respiratory failure, talks about why she is frightened about the changes and concerned about the future of many disabled people.
Labour loses its way on benefits reform – Politics Weekly UK (theguardian.com)
After months of speculation, the government will soon lay out plans to change the benefits system. John Harris hears from the head of social policy at the New Economics Foundation, Tom Pollard, and the Guardian columnist Gaby Hinsliff
Love Island Disabled Contestant Sparks Mixed Opinions (disabilityhorizons.com)
ITV’s announcement of Love Island’s first disabled contestant sparks debate. Is this a step toward true inclusivity, or just token representation?
Study finds gaps in assessing emotional well-being in people with intellectual disabilities (disabilityinsider.com)
Researchers in the University of Connecticut’s Neag School of Education have published a new study that provides unique insights into how emotional well-being is evaluated among individuals with intellectual disabilities. Emotional well-being has been connected to physical and mental health. Although researchers have become increasingly interested in measuring emotional well-being, the majority of studies focus on typically … Continue reading "Study finds gaps in assessing emotional well-being in people with intellectual disabilities"
Call for Australia to prioritize human rights in future emergencies (disabilityinsider.com)
A major new report about the COVID-19 pandemic by the Australian Human Rights Commission has highlighted how critical gaps in the emergency response could be improved upon in future crises.
ACU secures grant to advance innovation in aged care (disabilityinsider.com)
Australian Catholic University (ACU) has won its first Australia's Economic Accelerator (AEA) grant for a project using AI-powered data input technology to improve aged care.
Thursday briefing: How Labour’s proposed benefits bill cuts could affect the most vulnerable (theguardian.com)
In today’s newsletter: The PM has paved the way for the chancellor to overhaul ‘indefensible’ incapacity and disability payments – are there echoes of the Tories’ war on ‘sicknote culture’?
Cyberbullying hits women and girls with disabilities hardest (disabilityinsider.com)
States must do more to prevent cyberbullying and overcome unequal access to assistive technology which hampers the rights of persons with disabilities - particularly women and girls - the Human Rights Council has heard.
Will I Poop During a Colonoscopy? What to Expect (urevolution.com)
Worried about pooping during a colonoscopy? Find out what really happens, how doctors handle it, and why you shouldn’t stress about it.
Public Service and Disability: Essential Tips for a Successful Political Campaign (dancingwheels.org)
Public office should be representative of all communities, yet individuals with disabilities remain underrepresented in leadership roles. Running for office comes with challenges, but for people with disabilities, additional considerations – such as accessibility, public perception, and navigating campaign logistics – can make the journey even more complex. With the right preparation, support network, and advocacy mindset, candidates with disabilities can bring much-needed perspectives to the political arena.
We’re all set up for the Kidz to Adultz Middle exhibition (ablemagazine.co.uk)
We’re all set up for the Kidz to Adultz Middle exhibition which takes place at the Coventry Building Society Arena tomorrow (Thursday 13th March 2025)
6 Accessible Gifts For Christmas (disabilityhorizons.com)
The festive season has arrived, and it's the perfect moment to find wonderful gifts for friends and family members living with a disability. You've come to the right place! Over at Disability Horizons
Digital Accessibility: Singapore’s Commitment to Inclusivity – OpenGov Asia (opengovasia.com)
Women face higher risk of Alzheimer's, says Alzheimer's Association (wset.com)
According to the association, nearly two-thirds of Americans living with Alzheimer's are women.
The Road Ahead: Anti-DEIA Executive Orders & Ongoing Risks - National Alliance to End Homelessness (endhomelessness.org)
Written by Josh Johnson and Mary Frances Kenion The Trump Administration has recently signed the “Ending Radical Government DEI Programs and Preferencing” and “Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity” Executive Orders – collectively known as the “Anti-DEIA Executive Orders.” […]
Accessibility projects work to make Mount Pisgah Arboretum more welcoming - OPB (opb.org)
People cited physical barriers as the biggest hurdle when it came to visiting parks, according to an equity survey conducted by the Lane County Parks Department.
Education Department focused on Trump's politics, less on special ed, racial discrimination | AP News (apnews.com)
The Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights is best known for enforcing disability rights across America’s schools, but under President Donald Trump it’s being reshaped into a frontline figure in the president’s political battles. Officials appointed by Trump have taken a hard turn with the office of about 500 workers, halting thousands of pending cases while they open new investigations aimed at the president’s campaign promises. A Friday memo from the office’s chief announced that antisemitism cases are now top priority. Hanging in the balance are the types of cases the office has traditionally focused on, including disability rights and cases of discrimination against Black and Latino students.
Tennessee State Parks Hire First Ever Accessibility Coordinator — Tennessee State Parks (tnstateparks.com)
Tennessee State Parks hires first-ever accessibility coordinator (wvlt.tv)
Tennessee State Parks officials announced Tuesday that Ryan Jolley would take on the role of the first-ever accessibility coordinator.
DOGE wants access to very personal information of Americans : NPR (npr.org)
Agencies from Social Security to the IRS store sensitive data on millions of Americans. Here's what the government knows about us – and what's at risk as DOGE seeks access to the data.
DOGE wants access to very personal information of Americans : NPR (npr.org)
Agencies from Social Security to the IRS store sensitive data on millions of Americans. Here's what the government knows about us – and what's at risk as DOGE seeks access to the data.
Social Security Administration to curtail some toll-free phone services - CBS News (cbsnews.com)
Social Security will no longer let people change bank information by phone, alleging the practice is behind direct deposit fraud.
Social Security backtracks on DOGE phone service cuts after media report - Newsweek (newsweek.com)
SSA officials are weighing eliminating telephone support for claims processing and direct-deposit account transactions.
Mark Cuban wants to fill the void created by Musk’s cuts - POLITICO (politico.com)
But can he do it?
Federal Agency Dedicated to Mental Illness and Addiction Faces Huge Cuts - The New York Times (nytimes.com)
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has already closed offices and could see staff numbers reduced by 50 percent.
Mass Layoffs Slash Dept. of Education’s Civil Rights Division — ProPublica (propublica.org)
Only five of the agency’s civil rights offices remain nationwide. Those who are still with the department say it will now be “virtually impossible” to resolve discrimination complaints.
NYC streets and open spaces see more safety and accessibility in 2024: DOT (amny.com)
NYC streets and open spaces have achieved record-breaking safety and accessibility improvements in recent years, officials say.
Education Department announces it's cutting nearly 50% of workforce - CBS News (cbsnews.com)
The Department of Education said staff affected by the job cuts would be placed on leave starting Friday, March 21.
St. Louis County Library offers new visual accessibility kits | STLPR (stlpr.org)
All 20 county library branches now offer kits, which include magnifiers and an LED lamp.
Greece Leads The Way In Inclusive Travel With New Beach Accessibility Initiative - Travel And Tour World (travelandtourworld.com)
Greece is making its beaches more inclusive with a €131,650 investment, ensuring all travelers, including those with disabilities, enjoy its stunning coastline.
Don’t expect business-as-usual at national parks this spring or summer (eu.usatoday.com)
Travelers should anticipate longer lines and limited services at national parks due to staff reductions.
Weekly newspapers recorded for blind and partially sighted NI (bbc.com)
Run by volunteers, Talking Newspapers ensure local news is accessible for blind or partially-sighted people.
Saudi Arabia: Mecca Grand Mosque enhances accessibility for elderly & people of determination during Ramadan (gulfnews.com)
Special prayer areas designated, equipped with Qurans and Zamzam water
Films that are accessible to persons with disabilities? It’s possible | The Indian Express (indianexpress.com)
Accessibility advocate Anjlee Agarwal takes over PM Modi's X handle on Women's Day, calls for inclusivity (deccanherald.com)
With over three decades of experience in the field, Agarwal highlighted how accessibility and mobility have been increasingly integrated into governance.
Council agrees to improve voting accessibility for blind voters after settling legal challenge (localgovernmentlawyer.co.uk)
Art as therapy: Swiss doctors prescribe museum visits | Reuters (reuters.com)
Settlement with Croydon Council on blind voter accessibility (leighday.co.uk)
Dr Yusuf Ali Osman, who is registered blind, has reached a settlement with Croydon Council over it failing to make postal voting more accessible.
The vote-casting hurdle these Australians face: 'Too hard to access' | SBS News (sbs.com.au)
As the federal election nears, concerns have been raised about whether enough is being done to ensure all Australians are able to have their say.
Dragons' Den stars agree to help Bristol cosmetics entrepreneur (bbc.com)
Millie Flemington-Clare received numerous offers of help after pitching her inclusive beauty range.
Disabled people must have a say in rail reforms, MP says - BBC (bbc.com)
The transport committee chair urged the government "not to forget about disabled people" ahead of nationalisation.
Concerns about GBR lacking statutory responsibilities for accessibility raised by select committee | New Civil Engineer (newcivilengineer.com)
Transport select committee chair Ruth Cadbury MP wrote to Department for Transport (DfT) minister for rail Lord Hendy of Richmond Hill on 12 March 2025
Women with disabilities continue to face accessibility hurdles online, UN rights chief states - JURIST - News (jurist.org)
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk informed attendees of the 58th session of the Human Rights Council on Monday of the continuous accessibility barriers that people with disabilities fa...
(PDF) Exploring Accessibility of Voice-Controlled Interfaces and Gesture Interactions in Vehicles for Secondary Driving Tasks for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Drivers (researchgate.net)
PDF | Voice Control Interfaces (VCIs) have become an ubiquitous technology , including in interacting with in-vehicle infortainment systems. However,... | Find, read and cite all the research you need on ResearchGate
Municipality's Accessibility Advisory Committee identifies areas of improvement in Sun Peaks (sunpeaksnews.com)
By mid-April, the committee will present an action plan to council including parking, sidewalk and website improvements to make facilities and services controlled by the municipality more accessible.
Accessibility committee handled 67 requests in 2024 - Prince George Citizen (princegeorgecitizen.com)
Most requests the committee received in 2024 related to roads and sidewalks
(PDF) Exploring Accessibility of Voice-Controlled Interfaces and Gesture Interactions in Vehicles for Secondary Driving Tasks for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Drivers (researchgate.net)
PDF | Voice Control Interfaces (VCIs) have become an ubiquitous technology , including in interacting with in-vehicle infortainment systems. However,... | Find, read and cite all the research you need on ResearchGate
Driving Innovation and Customer Loyalty in Travel: The Strategic Opportunity of Digital Accessibility (martechcube.com)
As the travel industry evolves, digital accessibility is transforming from a compliance requirement to a strategic tool for innovation, customer loyalty, and market differentiation.
"It will be like going back in time to the 1960s, when children with learning differences and challenging behavior were not entitled to an education at all," said a Nebraska teacher.
How to manage people with disabilities webinar - YouTube (youtube.com)
Text (digitised) and videotape: video transcripts help everyone, not just people with access needs – Accessibility in government (accessibility.blog.gov.uk)
COS 2025: Enhancing Singapore's digital accessibility - YouTube (youtube.com)
Towards AI-Driven Sign Language Generation with Non-Manual Markers - Apple Machine Learning Research (machinelearning.apple.com)
Sign languages are essential for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (DHH) community. Sign language generation systems have the potential to…
HC Türk: Technology must support people with disabilities - not deepen discrimination | OHCHR (ohchr.org)
Mr. Vice-President, Excellencies, distinguished participants, colleagues, panelists,I am very happy to be here with you.Today, we gather to celebrate diversity; to honour the achievements of persons with disabilities; and to uphold what I believe to be the most powerful idea in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights – that all people are born equal.
Creating an Inclusive Digital Experience: The Future of Accessible UI Components - IBTimes India (ibtimes.co.in)
Venkata Prasanna Kumar Pentakota's work in accessible UI development underscores the importance of designing interfaces that accommodate diverse user needs.
Parenting a Child with a Disability - Disability Advice (disabilityadvice.org)
This guide explores the challenges and resources available for parents raising children with disabilities. It covers medical care, education, financial assistance, and emotional support to help parents navigate their journey.
Ep 7 - Ted Drake - Global Accessibility and Inclusive Design Leader, Intuit - YouTube (youtube.com)
How Joshua Miele Turned an Acid Attack into a Career In Accessibility | All Of It | WNYC (wnyc.org)
A new memoir from Amazon’s principal accessibility researcher and MacArthur fellow Joshua Miele recounts how the acid attack that blinded and scarred him as a child led to a career at...
Accessibility in tourism is more than ramps and wheelchair access - WiT (webintravel.com)
For Yock Song Law, Co-founder of Ludus Lab, accessibility in tourism is more than just a compliance checklist - it’s about unlocking opportunities, changing mindsets, and building a truly inclusive travel experience. His recent decision to exit Tribe Tours and focus completely on Ludus Lab was spark
Making Public Media Accessible: A Move from Mission to Practice - Greater Public (greaterpublic.org)
Make public media more accessible! Gain practical tips to create inclusive content and workplaces, covering everything from captioning to inclusive hiring practices.
Cultivating success through workforce accessibility | Employee Benefit News (benefitnews.com)
Creating a workplace that is truly accessible and supportive of people with disabilities has a major ROI for employers.
Family Voice Forum | OTDA (otda.ny.gov)
Making Your Website Work For You: Web Development Best Practices (forbes.com)
When undertaking a web development project, companies need to consider a holistic approach, balancing both performance optimization and security and compliance concerns.
MARCHing into Spring: NEAT Newsletter (2025) (mailchi.mp)
(31) The Complexity of Accessible Travel - by Christiane Link (accessiblelink.substack.com)
Trapped on the Jubilee Line
(31) Bringing disability history into a media classroom (reframingdisability.substack.com)
Jason Strother on teaching disability representation in the media, opportunities, and media recommendations
Attorney General Rayfield Issues Guidance For Schools On Diversity, Equity, Inclusion And Accessibility Initiatives - Oregon Department of Justice : Media (doj.state.or.us)
Attorney General Rayfield joined a coalition of 15 attorneys general in issuing guidance to help K-12 schools, colleges and universities understand the legality, viability and importance of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility policies and practices in education. The guidance comes in response to concerns following a Trump administration executive order and the U.S. Department of... View Article
Accessible Online Banking | Ipsos (ipsos.com)
Hands once joined (disabilitydebrief.org)
Impacts of aid freeze, education insights, and more from the mailbag
Carleton’s Abilities Living Laboratory Advancing Accessibility and Innovation | Carleton Newsroom (newsroom.carleton.ca)
Carleton University is at the forefront of accessibility and inclusive design research, driving innovation through collaboration with industry, community
Disability Celebration Month: Empowering athletes and transforming lives | News | SDSU (sdsu.edu)
SDSU alumnus A.J. Munoz-Bond (‘19, ‘21) serves as Director of SDSU Adapted Athletics, where he has been instrumental in expanding the program’s reach and impact.
Accessibility in Indian universities: Lessons from the US (theprint.in)
Accessibility in Indian universities is lagging despite the 2016 RPWD Act. Lessons from the US, centralised support systems, and India's tech advantage can build truly inclusive campuses.
UI to close Division of Access, Opportunity, and Diversity on March 27 | Iowa Now - The University of Iowa (now.uiowa.edu)
The University of Iowa will close the Division of Access, Opportunity, and Diversity (DAOD) on March 27, following direction from the Iowa Board of Regents. This action will ensure the university is in compliance with state and federal laws as well as recent changes to accreditation requirements
Disability and Homelessness in America – Accessibility Digest – Carleton College (carleton.edu)
by Jack Preisser On a single night of January, 2024, a survey by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) found 771,480 Americans experiencing homelessness. The homeless population grew…
People with physical disabilities in space: Mission possible - UND Today (blogs.und.edu)
Parastronaut programs can make space travel more inclusive and attainable for all, UND scholars write in The Conversation
AI in school education: Can learning be made more inclusive? (bestcolleges.indiatoday.in)
By improving accessibility for students with disabilities, resolving language barriers, and customising learning experiences, the use of AI in school education comes with the hope of transforming the educational space for students from a tender age
Neurodiversity: Think outside the box – @theU (attheu.utah.edu)
Join 2025 Neurodiversity & Disability Awareness Week for insight into student experiences, practical strategies for better web accessibility, meeting new friends and learning how the U can get you accommodations.
BYU Accessibility Center hosts 25th annual Awards Banquet - BYU Daily Universe (universe.byu.edu)
Students gathered in the Wilkinson Student Center Ballroom to attend BYU’s annual Accessibility Center banquet, where they enjoyed dinner with their peers and celebrated their achievements.
Fair Housing Advocates Reach Agreement to Expand Accessible Housing Opportunities for Residents with Disabilities to Over 5,300 Apartments in the South - NFHA (nationalfairhousing.org)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Fair Housing Advocates Reach Agreement to Expand Accessible Housing Opportunities for Residents with Disabilities to Over 5,300 Apartments in the South Washington, D.C. – Today, the National Fair Housing Alliance® (NFHA™) and the Tennessee Fair Housing Council (TFHC) announced an agreement with Gross Residential Properties that will expand accessible rental housing opportunities […]
Project Helping Instructors Improve Accessibility | UC Davis (ucdavis.edu)
A UC Davis education specialist is designing and leading a course to equip instructors with the tools to make digital course materials more accessible.
Making our campus physically accessible (bath.ac.uk)
Find out more about what Campus Infrastructure have done to make our campus more physically accessible.
The EU Accessibility Act: What Maltese businesses need to know | Deloitte Malta (deloitte.com)
The European Accessibility Act (EAA) requires businesses in the EU, including Malta, to make digital services accessible to people with disabilities by 28 June 2025. Entities like banks and e-commerce must comply with WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards. Compliance enhances SEO, user experience, and market reach. Maltese businesses should start assessing digital accessibility now to create inclusive and user-friendly environments and avoid legal repercussions. Learn more...
ADA Title III Federal Lawsuit Numbers Rebound to 8,800 in 2024 | ADA Title III (adatitleiii.com)
Newcastle United champions inclusive matchday experiences through Unite For Access campaign - Newcastle United (newcastleunited.com)
Newcastle United have proudly continued to demonstrate support for the Unite For Access campaign by showcasing the matchday experience of a fan living with disabilities.
City of Chicago renews contract with Curb to continue wheelchair accessible vehicle program | Mass Transit (masstransitmag.com)
Curb will be continuing its operation of Chicago’s Centralized Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Taxicab Dispatch Service for the next five years under its new contract with the city...
Vision Ireland and Benetech Join Forces to Launch EU-Compliant Global Certified Accessible Certification - techbuzzireland.com (techbuzzireland.com)
Vision Ireland and Benetech announced a collaboration to launch a groundbreaking partnership to provide the Global Certified Accessible (GCA) certification program for European Union (EU) publishers.
Village Launches Initiative To Improve ADA Accessibility In Glen Ellyn | Glen Ellyn, IL Patch (patch.com)
Glen Ellyn is urging residents to help them identify spots in the village that could benefit from improvements to ADA accessibility.
Allianz Trade partnership introduces AI mind-controlled keyboard for accessibility | Insurance Business Asia (insurancebusinessmag.com)
Company shares plans to foster broader innovation in assistive tech
XtraMath Achieves WCAG 2.1 Compliance, Enhancing Accessibility for All Students (einpresswire.com)
XtraMath believes every student deserves an inclusive and accessible learning experience
Flint awarded $472K to upgrade rentals for residents with disabilities - mlive.com (mlive.com)
Eligible renters applying for improvements will be selected on a first-come, first-served basis, according to the city.
Lift off: Wheelchair elevator boosts accessibility at Revelstoke museum - Revelstoke Review (revelstokereview.com)
Check out Revelstoke Museum and Archives' new fully-accessible lift and learn how to use it on your next visit
Peel Region seeks feedback to inform new Multi-Year Accessibility Plan - peelregion.ca (peelregion.ca)
BRAMPTON, ON (March 10, 2025) – Peel Region is asking the community to complete a short survey to provide input for its 2026-2030 Multi-Year Accessibility Plan (MYAP). This feedback will help shape an accessible and inclusive future.The survey is asking people with disabilities, their caregivers, friends and families, as well as community agencies, business owners and the public to help identify barriers people with disabilities experience when accessing Peel Region services.
Nominations open for accessibility awards | Quinte News (quintenews.com)
Belleville's Accessibility Advisory Committee has opened nominations for the 2025 Accessibility Excellence Awa...
c2c invites customers to join Accessibility Panel | RailBusinessDaily (news.railbusinessdaily.com)
South Essex train operator Trenitalia c2c is inviting local people with lived experience of disability to help it create a more accessible rail network South Essex train operator Trenitalia c2c is inviting local people with lived experience of disability to help it create a more accessible rail network and have a say in how future policy is shaped.
Northumberland County Council - Dementia friendly bungalows on countdown for completion (northumberland.gov.uk)
Nominations Open For Accessibility Awards - 99.1 FM CKXS | Your Music Variety (ckxsfm.com)
Chatham-Kent is looking to recognize members of the local community who contribute to the independence of those living with disabilities. Nominations are now open for the annual Accessibility Advisory Committee […]
The Complete Guide to Alt Text: Best Practices for Accessibility and SEO (concretecms.com)
A comprehensive guide on writing effective alt text for accessibility and SEO. Learn best practices, examples, and key guidelines.
3 Tips from Clearcast for More Accessible Ads | LBBOnline (lbbonline.com)
Little Black Book, With new tools, CPD-certified training, and subtitle services, Clearcast offers simple solutions to help advertisers make their ads inclusive and reach a broader audience
Take the CWA Accessibility Survey | Communications Workers of America (cwa-union.org)
Delegates to the 2023 CWA Convention adopted a resolution to make future meetings as accessible as possible for members and retirees who have a mental or physical disability.
650 likes, 16 comments - sony on March 7, 2025: "Sony is committed to advancing inclusive accessibility initiatives. We collaborate with a variety of users, including users with disabilities, during product development to ensure inclusive design. “Through the power of innovation, we create a future where everyone can share their excitement.” Sony will continue to strive towards this goal by enhancing accessibility in our products.".
Door Services Corporation Celebrates National Automatic Door Day with Accessibility Initiatives - MyChesCo (mychesco.com)
HATFIELD, PA — Door Services Corporation is marking National Automatic Door Day by celebrating the vital role automatic doors play in modern architecture and daily life. The event, held annually on …
Liverpool ONE becomes first destination in North West to introduce WelcoMe accessibility service — Retail Technology Innovation Hub (retailtechinnovationhub.com)
Liverpool ONE, a shopping, residential, and leisure complex in the UK, has launched accessibility service WelcoMe. This allows visitors to share their accessibility requirements with Liverpool ONE’s guest services team ahead of their visit, ensuring they receive the right support when they arrive.
MBTA 'Almost There' on Station Accessibility | Franklin Observer (franklinobserver.town.news)
MBTA Completes Accessibility Upgrades at West Medford, Franklin, and Walpole Stations
Muirhead launches accessible aviation leather collection | LARA (laranews.net)
Muirhead, a supplier of high-performance aviation leather, has launched its 2025 ‘Sensation’ collection, designed to improve accessibility for blind and visually impaired passengers.
Android 16 is getting a major hearing accessibility feature | The Verge (theverge.com)
Android is adding support for Auracast, which allows connected hearing aids to directly receive audio broadcasts where it might be otherwise difficult to hear.
TfGM modernises transport accessibility apps | CiTTi Magazine (cittimagazine.co.uk)
Disability and gadgets: summer holiday apps (disabilityhorizons.com)
Robert Wemyss is the IT guru at Really Useful Stuff. Really Useful Stuff is delighted to join in with Disability Horizons to offer a monthly roundup of all things tech and gadget. We will take a quick look at new ideas on the horizon as well as great new inventions already on the market that make life easier and a lot more fun.
No Decision Without Us: CoorDown's Powerful New Video for WDSD (meriahnichols.com)
CoorDown’s new video for World Down Syndrome Day is a must-watch! It delivers a powerful message about inclusion and why we ALL must have a say in decisions that impact our lives.
New aged care and disabilities hub (disabilityinsider.com)
Gilgandra Shire Council (Council) has taken the next step to strengthen their continuous commitment to the long-term improvement of Aged Care and Disability services for Gilgandra and its residents.
Trump Firings Gut Education Department’s Civil Rights Division (nytimes.com)
Many of the office’s cases over the decades have served as a catalyst for broader policy change and social reforms.
Downing Street considers U-turn on cuts to benefits for disabled people (theguardian.com)
Controversial plans to cut personal independence payment (Pip) may be shelved after a tense cabinet meeting and backlash from Labour MPs
‘How can I not charge my wheelchair?’ The real effects of benefit cuts for millions of disabled people (theguardian.com)
One of those waiting for Labour’s announcement explains why he depends on personal independence payments
Healing Through Trauma: A Personal Essay (urevolution.com)
Read Alicia Birmingham’s deeply personal trauma essay on generational pain, healing, and self-discovery. Learn how trauma affects mental health.
Overcoming Childhood Medical Trauma (urevolution.com)
Struggling with childhood medical trauma? Discover how Dr. House’s story mirrors real-life trauma recovery and learn strategies for healing and resilience.
A Guide to Reducing Mental Health Risks in the Workplace (urevolution.com)
Discover actionable strategies for supervisors to promote mental well-being at work, reduce stress, and create a supportive workplace culture.
Steampunk Wheelchairs - Empowering Disability (urevolution.com)
Discover how steampunk wheelchairs combine Victorian aesthetics and mobility aids, allowing individuals to express style while embracing disability.
Cuts to welfare. Cuts to international aid. Has Labour lurched too far to the right? (theguardian.com)
People on benefits are worried and some MPs are talking of ‘cruelty’. Is Keir Starmer’s plan to cut public spending a betrayal of his party’s values?
Sex and Chronic Pain: 6 Ways to Improve Intimacy (urevolution.com)
Sex and chronic pain don’t have to mean the end of intimacy. Discover practical ways to regain intimacy and physical connection despite chronic illness.
Opinion | I Have a Disability. This Is What It’s Like for Me to Read. (nytimes.com)
Republicans are trying to cut the resources that help struggling readers.
Many MPs think it immoral to slash disability benefits – and they’re right (theguardian.com)
Making it harder to claim Pip isn’t about ethics, as Keir Starmer says, but economics
We Are Asking the Wrong Questions About Mahmoud Khalil’s Arrest (thenation.com)
The only relevant question is not “How can the government do this?” It is “How can we who oppose this fascist regime stop it?”
The full force of this administration’s destruction is about to hit (thehandbasket.co)
Once social security checks stop showing up, millions of Americans will finally understand the scope.
When Disaster Strikes, Who Gets Left Behind? (huffpost.com)
Disabled people aren’t dying in climate disasters because of their disabilities. They’re dying because of policy failures.
How We Became the Country of GoFundMe Healthcare (teenvogue.com)
Our healthcare system prioritizes profit over human life.
Dismantling Education (nlawcrdj.medium.com)
How the Trump Administration’s policies are stripping protections, deepening inequities, and endangering the future of public education.
Over 50 Years of Environmental Protections — Gone Overnight (morethanjustparks.substack.com)
This Administration Doesn't Want You To Know or Care About NEPA
Resisting Covid Denialism Community of Practice (peopleshub.org)
This is a practice space to collaborate with other people that are resisting COVID denialism and to strengthen + build deeper connections outside of social media. We’ll collectively share updates about our work and strategies, troubleshoot common issues we face, and work on collective action planning.
Join me at the TeslaTakedown (actionnetwork.org)
The #TeslaTakedown movement is growing! Join us for an event in our community—or find one of more than 100 events every week across the country. And if there's not one near you, it's easy to sign up to host your own. Let's fight for our country!
Transnational Zines (wellcomecollection.org)
Join an online discussion about zines and zine cultures from around the world.
Echoes from the Past: Helen Keller and the Time Capsule Recordings (youtube.com)
Join us for a special live-streamed event as we unveil a never-before-heard recording of Helen Keller.
Meet Racer Rae / New Animated PBS Kids Series ‘Skillsville’ Features Gaming, Life Skills & Disability Representation (kamredlawsk.com)
For the last couple of years, I’ve consulting on the new PBS Kids series SKILLSVILLE, an animation that encourages kids to “power up” the skills they need for success in future careers and everyday life!
OCD Groinal Response Treatment: Manage Intrusive Thoughts (urevolution.com)
Struggling with OCD groinal response? Learn why it happens, how ERP therapy helps, and the best strategies to manage intrusive thoughts and anxiety.
Disability Smart Awards 2025 open for nominations (businessdisabilityforum.org.uk)
Business Disability Forum (BDF) opens nominations for its Disability Smart Awards 2025. The awards are free to enter and open to all organisations.
Taking CHARGE: how I found my voice and connected with the world (blindnewworld.org)
Tech and training from iCanConnect opened a world of communication, learning and fun for Dallas Bauer, a deafblind teen with CHARGE syndrome
UK politics: Unison attacks ‘shambolic’ announcement of NHS England’s abolition – as it happened (theguardian.com)
Union says staff will have been left reeling after surprise news that body will be scrapped
Cutting benefits won’t help disabled people into work (theguardian.com)
Letters: Any welfare cuts are going to have hideous consequences for people with health conditions, says Heather Bingham. Plus letters from Carolyn Sutton, Michael Miller, Sacha Deshmukh and Dr Natalie Symes
Federal Policy Update: The Reintroduction of the Marriage Equality for Disabled Adults Act (H.R. 1389) (respectability.org)
The Marriage Equality for Disabled Adults Act is one of our priority bills for the 119th Congress, and we will be working to elevate and advocate for this legislation.
Former shadow chancellor Ed Balls says plans to cut disability benefits ‘won’t work’ (theguardian.com)
Influential Labour figure says cuts ‘not a Labour thing to do’, while George Osborne says when chancellor he resisted move as ‘step too far’
Dear Rachel Reeves: if there is no alternative to cuts, at least do them with care (theguardian.com)
As Labour prepares to wield the axe, it must avoid causing more harm to those on benefits, writes Guardian columnist Polly Toynbee
John McDonnell accuses ministers of lacking empathy over benefit cuts (theguardian.com)
Former shadow chancellor also says he is surprised at how poorly government has handled lead-up to policy changes
Benefits cuts now? What’s the point of a Labour MP who votes for something so cruel, tin-eared and short-sighted? (theguardian.com)
Treating disabled and sick people callously flies in the face of all the party stands for – the government must rethink its plans, writes the MP John McDonnell
The Unseen Struggles: Remote Work for Disabled Individuals and Disability Advocacy (urevolution.com)
Learn how remote work for disabled individuals improves accessibility. Discover work-from-home options, advocacy efforts, and inclusion strategies.
Why Do I Have Intrusive Thoughts? Causes & Solutions (urevolution.com)
Struggling with intrusive thoughts? Learn why they happen, what they mean, and how to manage them with expert-backed strategies for better mental health.
Education Department Sued Over Cuts to Civil Rights Office (nytimes.com)
A new lawsuit argues that recent layoffs undermine the office’s ability to investigate complaints of discrimination from all students, not just those aligned with President Trump’s agenda.
An Autonomous Drone-Controlled Wheelchair? No Thanks. (newmobility.com)
The question came to my mind while reading an article about a Swiss project to build an autonomous wheelchair assisted by drones with integrated artificial intelligence. While each of those tech buzzwords conveys some degree of coolness on its own, together they make no sense. Wheelchairs are already conspicuous enough — now you want to add a drone constantly buzzing and hovering overhead? Unless it can fire some sort of crowd control at gawking bystanders, no thank you.
What a TV Show Taught Me About Disability That Two Decades of Living with One Hadn’t (newmobility.com)
I can still remember the first time I saw the trailer for the sitcom Speechless. Minnie Driver was looking with disgust at the garbage ramp of her local high school, shouting at the principal, “Is my son trash to you?” Driver was playing the mother of a nonverbal wheelchair user with CP. Her son, JJ, was played by Micah Fowler. She then forced the principal to play a spirited round of “Is this trash or is this a person?”
When parents grieve their disabled child (carlyfindlay.com.au)
This is from the audiobook of a chapter of my memoir, Say Hello – the chapter is called “Grief (and hope)”. It’s a long piece of audio, but please stick with it, and share.
WAI A Day: A week (yatil.net)
I added some things: A web page lists the URLs now together with the dates they have been picked for. This meant I had to give the page a history of all previously generated URLs. In the first version of the page, it only served as a random generator of a WAI URL and also, basically, only as an API – returning just the URL as a text string. So every time I accessed the URL, the response was different.
Calls to close RAF Wethersfield asylum centre after high court rules vulnerable migrants put there unlawfully – as it happened (theguardian.com)
Campaigners welcome decision saying Home Office acted unlawfully
The impact of government policies on disabled people (euansguide.com)
Government policies continue to shape the lives of disabled people, with proposed cuts to disability benefits sparking widespread concern. The 2024 Euan’s Guide Access Survey reveals the realities of inaccessibility, employment discrimination, and economic hardship. Read more about disabled people's experiences and what needs to change.
MPs tell No 10: frontbenchers could quit over disability benefits plan (theguardian.com)
Labour MPs suggest backlash means PM cannot push ahead with freeze on some personal independence payments
Special Event Issue: Get Ready for Neurodiversity Celebration Week (a11ynews.substack.com)
March 17 to 23 is packed with events on Neurodiversity and Inclusion.
CHANGE, NOT CHARITY: THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (youtube.com)
While curb cuts, ramps at building entrances, and braille on elevator buttons seem commonplace today, they were once the subject of a pitched battle that landed on the steps of Congress.
Disability (disability.ashoka.org)
Ashoka builds and cultivates a community of change leaders who transform institutions and cultures so they support changemaking for the good of society. Find out more about us, and join the worldwide network of changemakers.
The art of blind photography and finding your own style (disabilityhorizons.com)
Blind photography, adaptive techniques, famous blind photographers, and accessible photography equipment that make visual art inclusive.
Conservatives’ decades-long quest to destroy the Department of Education (vox.com)
Trump has already cut the department’s staff in half. He won’t stop there.
What dismantling the Education Department means for kids with disabilities (vox.com)
Trump’s education policy threatens everything from speech therapy to wheelchair access.
Education Department Fires 1,300 Workers, Gutting Its Staff (nytimes.com)
The layoffs mean that the department will now have a work force of about half the size it did when President Trump took office.
Running Strong Accessibility Programs Without DEI Support (buttondown.com)
Wooden blocks teeter on a single point of failure, with a house on top. A hand pulls away one of the support blocks, and the house begins to fall.
5 years later, long Covid is still a medical mystery: What scientists have learned (nbcnews.com)
Why do some people develop disabling chronic conditions after the initial viral infection?
5 years ago, the WHO declared COVID a pandemic. Here's a look at the disease by the numbers (abcnews.go.com)
It's been five years since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 to be a pandemic.
Fascism and Futili-tea (teawithhb.substack.com)
I wanna leave Substack.
Anxiety in Black Women: Signs, Struggles, and How to Cope (urevolution.com)
Anxiety in Black women often goes unnoticed. Learn the signs of anxiety in Black women, why it's often hidden, and how to cope with societal pressures.
Nominations are now open for the National Diversity Awards! (ablemagazine.co.uk)
Nominations are now Open for the National Diversity Awards in association with HSBC UK! The National Diversity Awards open nominations today, but who will be crowned the best of British Diversity?
New hope for babies born with rare genetic bone disorder at Nemours Children's Hospital in Delaware (cbsnews.com)
Koa gets care for osteogenesis imperfecta, a rare genetic brittle bone condition that is life-threatening, at Nemours Children's Hospital in Wilmington, Delaware. New research offers hope for babies like him.
Extra costs evidence from grassroots group provides stark warning to ministers set to cut disability benefits (disabilitynewsservice.com)
New research from disabled activists has shown the huge variety of ways in which mental health impairments can cause significant extra daily living costs, just as the government appears set to announce fresh cuts to disability benefits.
Dept. of Education plans to cut nearly half of staff, paving way for closure (19thnews.org)
Education Secretary Linda McMahon confirmed Tuesday that the moves are a “first step” toward the department's dismantling.
Science and Rising Autism Rates (wnyc.org)
Paul Offit, MD, director of the Vaccine Education Center at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, walks through the studies debunking a link between vaccines and autism.
Video How contagious is measles? (abcnews.go.com)
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses known to humans, experts say.
Unvaccinated New Mexico resident tests positive for measles after dying (abcnews.go.com)
A possible second measles death has been recorded in the U.S. this year after a New Mexico resident tested positive for the virus following their death.
7 Mobility Aids That Will Support Your Foot Care Needs (disabilityhorizons.com)
Your foot care and having the right footwear can be difficult if you have a disability. Being able to put on socks and shoes, washing your feet, cutting your toenails or doing exercise has its challenges if you have a mobility impairment, joint pain or dexterity issues.
LGBTQ+ and Disability Rights Organizations Are Resisting Trump’s Nonprofit Crackdown (nonprofitquarterly.org)
The Trump administration’s executive orders and funding freezes threaten LGBTQ+ and disability rights nonprofits, forcing service reductions, legal battles, censorship, and increased reliance on grassroots mutual aid networks.
For a single mom worried about keeping her kids fed, weathering inflation means wasting nothing (edition.cnn.com)
Food banks in Houston are already seeing an increase in demand and there is a fear over what may happen next if tariffs come in and inflation rises.
Under Trump, Social Security Resumes What It Once Called 'Clawback Cruelty' (kffhealthnews.org)
Last year, the government stopped cutting off people’s monthly Social Security benefits to claw back overpayments. Last week, under President Donald Trump, it reversed that change.
Unionized ASL interpreters say Clovis Unified outsourced positions remotely with higher pay (aol.com)
The Association of Clovis Educators representing district-employed interpreters is negotiating its first contract.
“I lost my benefits at 16 for saying I could cook” (bbc.co.uk)
Thousands of teen claimants lose benefits at 16, BBC data find
Starmer under pressure over welfare cuts as TUC says targeting disability benefits ‘not the solution’ (theguardian.com)
Union says proposed cuts will push people in to hardship and repeat the mistakes of Tory austerity
The London Underground station where you're most likely to fall through the gap (mylondon.news)
80 customers fell into the gap at the station in just one year
The Psychology Behind Accessibility Hesitation (youtube.com)
Accessibility professionals spend too much time selling, convincing, and marketing accessibility to their peers, organizations, and leaders.
The Complexity of Accessible Travel (accessiblelink.substack.com)
Trapped on the Jubilee Line
Subscribe to Getting Down To It (gettingdowntoit.substack.com)
Words on disability from the creator of the Down to the Struts podcast. Click to read Getting Down To It, by Qudsiya Naqui, a Substack publication. Launched 3 years ago.
Articulate: A Deaf Memoir of Voice: Kolb, Rachel Renee (amazon.com)
Rachel Kolb was born profoundly deaf the same year that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed, and she grew up as part of the first generation of deaf people with legal rights to accessibility services. Still, from a young age, she contorted herself to expectations set by a world that prioritizes hearing people. So she learned to speak through speech therapy and to piece together missing sounds through lipreading and an eventual cochlear implant, all while finding clarity and meaning in American Sign Language (ASL) and written literature.
Counterinsurgent Mother Figureheads (buttondown.com)
by: Liz Jackson & Rua M. Williams audio: Jules Good Judith Heumann may forever be remembered as the Mother of the Disability Rights Movement, but how she...
FIFA launches toolkit to help support disability football worldwide (sportanddev.org)
One of FIFA’s key missions as world football’s governing body is to promote inclusion for all in the game, including disabled people and people with limited mobility. As part of this commitment, FIFA has published an extensive guide to disability football to encourage and support its growth around the world and to provide more opportunities for people to take part in this form of the beautiful game.
‘Patchy and behind deadline’: MPs attack UK rollout of EV charging points (theguardian.com)
Committee warns of serious injustice to disabled motorists and those reliant on public chargers
British Airways launches Accessibility Team (disabilityhorizons.com)
British Airways Accessibility Team is a dedicated customer service for passengers with hidden and visible disabilities. Find out more about the new programme and what support you can get on your next journey.
Mental ill-health is behind soaring disability benefits bill in England and Wales, report says (theguardian.com)
Institute for Fiscal Studies says half of the rise in working-age people claiming the benefit last year is linked to mental health
Living with an Invisible Disability: Challenges & Support (urevolution.com)
Discover the challenges of living with an invisible disability, how to navigate daily life, and ways to break the stigma. Learn about support, awareness & advocacy.
Living with Hidden Disabilities: The Challenges You Can’t See (urevolution.com)
Living with hidden disabilities presents unique challenges, from societal misunderstandings to self-doubt. Learn how people navigate life with hidden disabilities.
Disability and sex: being open about sex when you have a disability (disabilityhorizons.com)
Disability and sex expert Tuppy Owens discusses how to talk more openly about your sexual needs when you have a disability.
Design (fastcompany.com)
Find the latest Design news from Fast company. See related business and technology articles, photos, slideshows and videos.
Hospitals that paused youth gender-affirming care continued controversial intersex surgeries, group says (19thnews.org)
Intersex advocates say that they have been shut out of the conversations about gender and health, even as a recent executive order has far-reaching consequences for intersex kids.
Profit shouldn’t take precedence over health and safety (altamontenterprise.com)
We support initiatives that help close the gap between wealthy companies and struggling consumers.
Exploring the nuances when telling stories on the impact of climate change on disabled people (reframingdisability.substack.com)
Jason Strother's advice, media recommendations, resources and several opportunities (one with a special discount for subscribers)
Maternal infection’s link to autism may be a mirage (thetransmitter.org)
Family-linked factors explain most associations between maternal illness and autism, a study of 1.1 million Danish children finds.
Long-Covid Patients Are Frustrated That Federal Research Hasn’t Found New Treatments (katiecouric.com)
The CDC estimates 17 million adults are still suffering.
US added to international watchlist for rapid decline in civic freedoms (theguardian.com)
Civicus, an international non-profit, puts country alongside Democratic Republic of Congo, Italy, Pakistan and Serbia
Protesters arrested as New York's home care transition deadline looms (cbs6albany.com)
Five people were arrested during a protest highlighting the anxiety faced by New Yorkers reliant on the CDPAP as the April 1 transition deadline approaches.
RFK says most vaccine advisers have conflicts of interest. A report shows they don't (npr.org)
The Health Secretary's assertion inaccurately characterizes the 2009 government report he cites, according to an NPR review and interviews with former committee members.
Laughing at dwarfism is the last acceptable prejudice - but don't seek my approval for your intolerance (independent.co.uk)
If you need to ask me whether it's OK to tell a joke about my stature, you already know the answer
Cost Of Living Crisis: Disability Benefits Must Keep Pace With Inflation (disabilityhorizons.com)
Charity Leonard Cheshire draws on research to highlight why disability benefits must be kept in line with inflation to avoid disabled people going into poverty.
Katie Price: What Harvey Did Next (disabilityhorizons.com)
An updated look at Harvey Price’s journey since his BBC documentary. Learn how his college transition has progressed and explore new insights into disability education.
UK politics: MPs highlight ITN’s use of NDAs in employment rights debate – as it happened (theguardian.com)
Louise Haigh and Layla Moran cite broadcaster in arguing for amendment that would ban such agreements that stopped staff revealing harassment
Blue Badge Access Awards - Celebrating Exceptional Access + Ludicrous Loos/Ridiculous Ramps. Tickets Going Fast (bluebadgestyle.com)
The Blue Badge Access Awards Celebrations include Awards from Best Hotel, Bar, Restaurant etc. to the infamous Ludicrous Loo/Ridiculous Ramp, the Awards no one wants to win! There will be entertainment and a few celebrities from the world of gastronomy, the disabled glitterati and entertainment world.
Malcolm Blackwell: How to Make a Difference (dancesyndrome.co.uk)
Malcolm Blackwell writes about rewarding Trustee opportunities and how you can use your own skills to support our work.
Freedom To Travel Side by Side (ablemagazine.co.uk)
Rosemarie and Neil Sanderson were looking for a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) where they could travel together, side by side.
Wicked’s Jenna Bainbridge on Reframing Nessa’s Disability (vulture.com)
Twenty-one years in, she’s the first disabled actor to play Elphaba’s sister, who uses a wheelchair, on Broadway.
How the Disability Community Can Fight Back in 2025 (americanprogress.org)
The disability community must utilize a three-prong strategy to actively fight back against the Trump administration and Congress.
Episode 127: Everything is NOT Awesome, But You Are! (theaccessiblestall.com)
It’s hard out here, but hey, we’re here for u. love u.
Disabled people need help to stay in work (theguardian.com)
Letters: Sara L Uckelman says the Labour government has slashed her Access to Work grant despite her circumstances not changing
10 Surprising Trends From the Fall 2025 Fashion Shows (nytimes.com)
Prosthetic body parts, lampshade hats and other surprising trends from fashion month.
Disabled Musicians Recognised At RPS Awards 2025 (criplife.co.uk)
Disabled musicians were among the winners of the 2025 Royal Philharmonic Society Awards that were announced last week.
#CutItBack 2.0 Launches Today - Thomas Pocklington Trust (pocklington.org.uk)
Following the engagement and feedback from last year’s successful #CutItBack campaign, we are launching Cut it Back 2.0 earlier this year and running the campaign for longer to encourage homeowners, friends, neighbours and local councils, to start considering the seasonal impact overgrown hedges and bushes have on a blind or partially sighted person’s ability to navigate independently.
Dumped Because of Chronic Illness? How to Cope & Heal (urevolution.com)
Dumped because of chronic illness? Learn how to heal, rebuild confidence, and find love again. Read this personal story for inspiration.
A History of the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (sites.ed.gov)
Congress enacted the Education for All Handicapped Children Act (Public Law 94-142), also known as the EHA, in 1975 to support states and localities in protecting the rights of, meeting the individual needs of, and improving the results for infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities and their families. This landmark law’s name changed to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, or IDEA, in a 1990 reauthorization. The law was last reauthorized in 2004, and the department has periodically issued new or revised regulations to address the implementation and interpretation of the IDEA.
5 Things To Know About Coronavirus And People With Disabilities (forbes.com)
The COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak has everyone spooked, and hopefully, taking steps to control the outbreak and prepare to get through whatever may come of it. But one group faces additional risks and consequences, as well as anxieties: people with disabilities and or chronic illnesses.