Mayor Adams says all Ubers, Lyfts must be emissions-free or wheelchair-accessible by 2030
I’m Raul Krauthausen the founder of SOZIALHELD*INNEN, an NPO and consultancy from Germany, focussing on Disability Mainstreaming. With this newsletter, I share hand-picked links from around the world.
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Thank you,
Raul
I wrote a book (in german)
In this book, I raise fundamental questions about inclusion in Germany. In conversations with experts, we sketch out an idea of how inclusion can work together at all levels.
Some readings are scheduled, and I can't wait to finally get back into dialogue with you!
Hand-picked news about inclusion, accessibilty and innovation
Price of elder care soars as demand increases, baby boomers age (thehill.com)
Many Americans who serve as caregivers are consumed by the immense cost of tending to ailing or aging family members. And as the baby boomer generation ages, more Americans are in for a …
Perspective | I’ve been disabled my entire life. But only strangers can tell. (washingtonpost.com)
Disabilities are usually categorized as visible or invisible – but what about the in-between?
7 Essential iPhone Apps for Deaf/Hard of Hearing Travelers (miusa.org)
Are you planning your next trip? Whether going to a conference in the next town, or a work assignment in the next continent, you'll come back to each and every one of these apps.These are just a few obvious and not so obvious suggestions for apps that Deaf or hard of hearing iPhone users have benefited from the past.
A Guide For Prospective Travelers (sites.google.com)
5 Topics for Studying and Volunteering Abroad.
Campus Internationalization and Disability Tips (miusa.org)
Incorporate disability inclusion into your campus internationalization strategy from education abroad to on-campus events, and more!
Welcome to the Disabled Future (thenib.com)
What does the neglect of disabled people mean for our collective future?
‘Diagnosis is rebirth’: women who found out they were autistic as adults (theguardian.com)
Women from around the world describe the life-changing impact of finally receiving a diagnosis.
How wildfire smoke can permanently damage your brain and body (nationalgeographic.com)
A growing body of evidence suggests that wildfire smoke raises the risk of neurological diseases, as well as harming the lungs, kidney, and other organs.
I’m disabled. The law says I deserve access to venues, so why do they charge me double? (inquirer.com)
Whenever I go outside my home, I need my attendant to come with me. But if I visit certain venues, I am often asked to pay for myself and for my attendant. That means it costs me twice as much.
Some seniors infected with Omicron variants were more susceptible to reinfection, not less: McMaster study (thestar.com)
A surprising finding by researchers at McMaster University runs counter to prevailing wisdom that previous COVID infection protects against future infections.
Long COVID. Shorter Life? New research reveals an arduous road to recovery (fortune.com)
The first study to look at two years of data shows the devastating effects of long COVID-but there are still no validated treatments.
Many long-covid symptoms linger even after two years, new study shows (washingtonpost.com)
The report finds a heightened risk for lung problems, fatigue, diabetes and other health woes.
The Michael Oher adoption controversy exposes how ableism and racism can work hand-in-hand to create a 'white savior' narrative (insider.com)
"Ableism can be weaponized against anyone deemed undesirable," disability rights activist Imani Barbarin said.
Long Covid symptoms create a greater burden of disability than heart disease or cancer, new study shows (edition.cnn.com)
People who survived Covid-19 early in the pandemic, before there were vaccines, continued to be at higher risk for a slew of health problems for up to two years after they got over their initial infections, a new study finds, and that was especially true if they were hospitalized.
Actors With Autism To Star On Broadway (disabilityscoop.com)
A musical centering on a group of young adults with autism is heading to Broadway this fall.
Nearly 99% Of Adults With Autism Have No Employment Services (disabilityscoop.com)
Hardly any adults with autism are receiving supports to help them find or keep a job, new research shows, and even among the few who do, the services are often far too short-term.
Beyond 6 Seconds: Trans and autistic inclusion at work – with Nate Shalev (sites.libsyn.com)
Nate Shalev is a leading expert and advisor on inclusivity helping to create workplace cultures where both businesses and people thrive. They were named a LinkedIn Top Voice and have been highlighted in the Harvard Business Review, the New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and more. Nate earned a BA from Barnard College of Columbia University and an MA from New York University. They are the founder of Revel Impact, a consultancy that specializes in social impact and diversity, equity & inclusion. During this episode, you will hear Nate talk about: How they realized that they are autistic The intersections between their transgender and autistic identities Some of the negative experiences they had at work, which led them to start their own business The training and advising they do at companies to help build inclusive practices and open up communications between managers and teams How to be a good ally to your trans and autistic coworkers Creating work systems that can benefit everyone Learn more about Nate’s work at and on . This episode is sponsored by Misfit Media: a podcast about queerness, disability, fatness and more with a focus on personal experience, knowledge and intracommunity topics. Tune in every Sunday for bite-sized episodes, in which the host Delta talks about all sorts of things ranging from being non-binary, neurodivergence or living in a fat body. Misfit Media is available at and wherever you get your podcasts.
Chipping Away at an Iceberg of Resentment (retrospectivelily.wordpress.com)
I’ve watched plenty of disagreements unfold in real life and on reality shows. Like a lot of people, I become an amateur family therapist in those moments. I quietly observe misinterpretations and miscommunications happening in real time. Someone takes something the wrong way and responds in an angry tone, then the other person becomes defensive;…
Definitions of Disability, Disability Pride (meriahnichols.com)
These “definitions” are brief statements about the meaning of these words and concepts. There are, of course, other and more lengthly statements out there. My offering definitions is a place to spring from, not an end-and-all for definitions. It’s a starting place.
The Euro key system fails disabled immigrants - here's why (fmanochaseymour.wixsite.com)
When I first came to Germany, it quickly became clear that I needed a Euro key. This is a special key which is needed not only to unlock most public accessible toilets, but also for other things such as operating the platform lifts at my local library.
Coming out of the Disability Closet (livingabled.com.au)
This naturally got me thinking because I live under a rock, but I had never heard of the phrase ‘coming out of the disability closet’.
Out of the Disability Closet: Strategic Use of Perception Management by Select University Students with Disabilities (researchgate.net)
This study examines the ways in which university students with apparent and hidden disabilities actively manage the perceptions of others. Interview data were collected and analysed by theme. Students indicated that they valued their own experience of disability, but were aware that knowledge of their disability altered the behaviors of others toward them. Whereas some perception management strategies have previously been called denial and 'passing,' for our participants these behaviors constituted a set of interpersonal skills. Participants evaluated themselves positively while struggling to project an image as complex individuals rather than stereotypes. Within deviance theory, passing as non-disabled has been conceptualised as a reactive social behavior that is motivated by low self-regard or fear. Our findings do not support this model. We, therefore, examine perception management within the framework of social identity theory.
I Have a Choice to Make About My Blindness (nytimes.com)
The feeling of shared experience that comes when two people interact and exchange ideas and abilities is something technology can’t provide.
Artificial intelligence: Barrier-free art for people with disabilities? (laprensalatina.com)
The creative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) could turn this technology into a tool capable of bringing art closer to individuals with disabilities, breaking down sensory or physical barriers currently hindering their access.
The Latest Trend on Yachts? Submersibles. (nytimes.com)
Only boats at least 120 feet long can hold a sub, which typically costs between $2 million to $7 million. Manufacturers of the deep-sea vessels say many of their clients are wealthy enthusiasts.
Here's how an AI tool may flag parents with disabilities (apnews.com)
For the two weeks that the Hackneys’ baby girl lay in a Pittsburgh hospital bed weak from dehydration, her parents rarely left her side, sometimes sleeping on the fold-out sofa in the room.
A "failed policy based on failed research": The destructive legacy of Bill Clinton's 1996 welfare reform act (salon.com)
The 1996 welfare reform bill has subjected a generation of families to increased poverty and poor health outcomes.
The Welfare-to-Work Industrial Complex (marketplace.org)
"The Uncertain Hour" is back! We're diving deep into work requirements.
How to prevent your conference calls from getting hacked (accessability.substack.com)
A few simple, proactive steps will help reduce the chance of this terrible event from occurring on your watch.
What a ‘Human-Centered’ Approach Can Do for Workers With Disabilities (nytimes.com)
Obtaining reasonable accommodations is often a messy, frustrating process for both employees and their managers. But there are solutions.
How my disability fuels my imposter syndrome (lifeofablindgirl.com)
An honest account of how my disability fuels my imposter syndrome.
Breakthrough Robotic Gripper and Myoelectric Integration May Revolutionize Prosthetics (assistivetechnologyblog.com)
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a remarkable robotic gripping device that possesses an impressive combination of features. This gripping device is both delicate enough to lift a drop of water and sturdy enough to handle a weight of up to 6.4 kilograms. It exhibits dexterity by folding cloth and precision by picking up microfilms thinner than a human hair. What’s more, this invention goes beyond manufacturing potential as it’s integrated with technology capable of being controlled by the electrical signals generated by muscles in the forearm, making it a promising tool for use in robotic prosthetics. Creating such a versatile gripper was a challenge due to the tradeoffs between strength, gentleness, and precision. However, the researchers managed to strike an exceptional balance. The gripper’s design builds upon a prior generation of flexible robotic grippers influenced by kirigami, an art involving cutting and folding two-dimensional materials into three-dimensional shapes.
Tips for finding an online therapist (disabilityinsider.com)
As the digital age progresses, mental healthcare has adapted by embracing online therapy. Online therapy, also known as teletherapy, involves providing mental health services through the internet. This can include video calls, phone sessions, or messaging. This method of therapy has been gaining popularity, particularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the importance of … Continue reading "Tips for finding an online therapist "
Enhancing disability employment through extended JobAccess provider reach (disabilityinsider.com)
The Albanese Labor Government has signed 54 additional JobAccess providers in 15-months, with the 400th employer now joining the scheme.
New Covid wave has begun and we should wear masks again, warn scientists (independent.co.uk)
Spread of new variant could cause extreme pressure on NHS and cause more damaging long-term health problems, Independent Sage expert says.
CDC tracking new COVID variant BA.2.86 after highly mutated strain reported in Michigan (cbsnews.com)
Cases of the new COVID variant BA.2.86 have been spotted in Michigan, Denmark and Israel.
“Gravely Disabled” — How I Narrowly Escaped a Conservatorship (madinamerica.com)
The next time I breathe fresh air, I promise myself, will be when I’m free.
1 family, 3 damaged wheelchairs while flying: Travel needs 'complete overhaul' they say (eu.usatoday.com)
Two flights and three incidents of wheelchair damage highlight how tough air travel is for flyers with disabilities.
A Pennsylvania study suggests links between natural gas drilling and asthma, lymphoma in children (pbs.org)
In the reports, University of Pittsburgh researchers found what they called significant associations between gas industry activity and two ailments: asthma, and lymphoma in children, who are relatively rarely diagnosed with this type of cancer.
How COVID-19 Changes the Immune System (time.com)
Innate immune cells remain altered for at least a year after infection.
33 And Never Been Kissed (theestablishment.co)
Trumpeting sexual freedom also has the power to wound deeply.
Creating Hyperlinks and Navigation in HTML (flamesintech.medium.com)
Creating Hyperlinks and Navigation in HTML for Frontend Developers.
Council Post: 19 Essential Elements Every Business Website Needs (forbes.com)
Taking a step back to evaluate their target audience can help business leaders create an enticing website.
The end call button on “Apple” returns to its usual place (dubaiweek.ae)
It’s been 25 years since the Internet entered people’s lives, but 96.1 percent of it is still not accessible to users. the mechanism most used by readers of electronic screens to search for content). How to guide Millions of websites around the world exclude people with learning disabilities or hearing or vision impairments. Lack of […]
Alternative text of images should not be repeated as text (dequeuniversity.com)
Don't put the same text in the alt attribute value for a button or link in the text adjacent to the corresponding image or link.
Your iPhone will soon be able clone your voice using AI (turnto23.com)
The next iPhone system update will include new features designed to assist folks who have difficulty speaking — by replicating their own voices with artificial intelligence.
The Importance of Cognitive Accessibility in Baldur's Gate 3 (gameishard.gg)
In August, one game has captured my attention like no other: Baldur’s Gate 3. Despite being initially skeptical about playing the video game version of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), I have found myself immersed in multiple campaigns. The game’s accessible design has been instrumental in making it an enjoyable and inclusive experience for players of all abilities.
11 Unusual HTML Tags to Boost Your Web Development Skills (makeuseof.com)
HTML is a simple language, but its vocabulary is larger than you might realize. Learn all about some of the more unusual tags you can use.
Spider-Man 2 to feature slow-mo toggle to help more people play on PS5 (theloadout.com)
Insomniac Games' upcoming PS5 release Marvel's Spider-Man 2 will feature new and improved accessibility features, one of which basically gives you Spidey-Sense.
How can you make your e-commerce website accessible to disabled users? (linkedin.com)
Making your e-commerce website accessible to disabled users is not only a legal obligation, but also a smart business decision. By following some simple guidelines and best practices, you can improve the user experience, customer satisfaction, and conversion rate of your online store. In this article, we will show you how to make your e-commerce website accessible to disabled users in six easy steps.
Meet the Voice Actors Fighting for Accessibility On and Behind the Screen (wired.com)
Voice actors with disabilities are only now getting a seat at the table in the gaming industry. But regressive policies on remote work and a desire for Hollywood names have put that all in danger.
How do you test your web accessibility and usability with WAVE and A11y? (linkedin.com)
Web accessibility and usability are essential aspects of web development that ensure your website is inclusive, user-friendly, and compliant with the relevant standards and guidelines. However, testing and evaluating your web accessibility and usability can be challenging, especially if you are not familiar with the tools and techniques available. In this article, you will learn how to use two popular and powerful web accessibility and usability evaluation tools: WAVE and A11y.
10 Reasons Why Designing in Grayscale Will Improve Your UX/UI Designs (makeuseof.com)
While many UI and UX designers will create their projects in color, using grayscale might be a good idea. Here are the benefits.
Street Fighter 6 Devs Talk Accessibility, Modern Controls, and DLC Characters (me.pcmag.com)
I spoke with Capcom's Takayuki Nakayama and Shuhei Matsumoto at Evo 2023 about Street Fighter 6's roster, options for the visually impaired, and more.
This one essential iPhone feature will save your hearing — here's how to turn it on (tomsguide.com)
I wouldn’t feel comfortable testing headphones without this feature.
Baldur's Gate 3 Gets Accessibility Mostly Right, But There's Still Room to Improve (ign.com)
It’s August and the only game I’ve consistently played is Baldur’s Gate 3. I can’t stop thinking about progressing in my multiple campaigns, unraveling new secrets and areas, and even determining which character best suits a specific conversation. And as someone who’s unsuccessfully tried numerous times to play tabletop D&D because of a lack of interest, I was initially apprehensive about playing the video game version. Thankfully I’ve never been more wrong.
Audient apps accessible to vision impaired (lsionline.com)
Audient has announced that both the iD and EVO mixer apps now offer accessibility support for vision impaired users. Users can navigate the entire mixer app using just the keyboard and a screen reader by downloading the latest drivers, which now include accessibility for each relevant product.
Lacombe Museums celebrates their accessible garden project (lacombeonline.com)
Lacombe Museums have officially celebrated the Michener House Museum’s Heritage Learning Garden’s accessible garden project on Thursday, August 10th. Although the project was constructed last year, the garden is in full bloom this year and some new signage is now on display. “We did have Scott and Devin from Triangle Construction as our main contractors for landscaping for the entire Heritage Garden. They worked quite closely with the initial designs of what the raised garden bed would require so that they were sure to make certain that people in different variety of wheelchairs, walkers, and everything like that would be able to utilize it,” said Melissa Blunden, Executive Director of the Lacombe Museums. The Lacombe Museums also worked with Team Jigger in designing the garden for further input on accessibility. The paths in the garden are around 5 feet wide to allow a bit more space than one wheel chair.
New accessibility technologies to be piloted in Toronto, Canada (intelligenttransport.com)
Through its new trial, the Toronto Transit Commission continues to work towards increasing the accessibility of its services.
District seeking volunteers for new Accessibility Advisory Committee (chemainusvalleycourier.ca)
Ensuring services and infrastructure are easily accessible to all residents the primary aim.
Inside LIXIL’s Mission To Make Physical Spaces More Accessible To All (forbes.com)
Towards the tail end of last year, I published an interview in this space with two members of architectural firm Interior Architects about the importance of designing and developing accessible and inclusive restrooms. As I wrote at the time, although many people don’t consider it thusly, the reality is physical world accommodations like accessible restrooms (and curb cuts and disabled parking spaces) are examples of assistive technologies. What distinguishes them from, for example, the accessibility features on the iPhone is accessible restrooms and the like are analog pieces of tech rather than digital ones. As I often say, assistive technology isn’t a domain owned solely by computer software.
Google is planning to prevent hearing loss with its new accessibility feature - Times of India (timesofindia.indiatimes.com)
Google is planning to introduce a new ‘headphone loud sound alert’ safety feature.
Tactile Patch Sheets are open 3D-printed synth overlays for vision accessibility (cdm.link)
Patch sheets and synth overlays too often assume sighted users - so how do you make them accessible for people with low vision or blindness? Geert Bevin and Tim Burgess have tried 3D-printed patch sheets for the Moog DFAM and Mavis. They're open source and could be a starting point for more; we'd love to hear from people with different levels of sight about whether this works for you.
LG Electronics to unveil Universal UP Kit to boost home appliance accessibility (koreatimes.co.kr)
LG Electronics will unveil its Universal UP Kit, an attachable accessory that helps users easily use their home appliances in a bid to offer an enhanced customer experience, at the upcoming IFA tech fair next month, the home appliance maker said Tuesday.
CareValidate Unveils AskJanet: Your Personalized AI Concierge for ADA Accommodations (finance.yahoo.com)
CareValidate, a leading innovator in the field of accessibility technology, is thrilled to announce the launch of their revolutionary generative AI platform, AskJanet. This groundbreaking platform is poised to transform the way employees and employers start and move through the ADA accommodations process.
AiFi Is Using AI To Ensure The Future Of Retail Is Autonomous (And Accessible) For Everyone (forbes.com)
At a high level, Jorczak said AiFi exists to modernize and expedite the shopping experience by reducing long lines.
Ryde Carnival enhances accessibility with new viewing platform for Main and Illuminated events (onthewight.com)
Ryde Carnival launches an accessible viewing platform, ensuring inclusivity at both festive events. Booking essential.
Audient Interface Apps Accessible to Blind and Vision Impaired Users plus new instruction video (etnow.com)
Audient has announced that both the iD and EVO mixer apps now offer accessibility support for vision impaired users. Users can navigate the entire mixer app using just the keyboard and a screen reader by downloading the latest drivers, which now include accessibility for each relevant product.
How Specialized QR Codes Make Packaging More Accessible to People With Vision Impairments (makeuseof.com)
These innovative QR codes are designed to show product information in an accessible way. Learn more about how they work and where you'll find them.
Enhancing Accessibility: Dubrovnik Introduces Inclusive Tourist Maps and Geo-Location Database (thedubrovniktimes.com)
After introducing the Geo-Location Database featuring 633 points highlighting obstacles for people in wheelchairs earlier this year, in collaboration with the Dubrovnik Tourist Board, now tourist maps are now available in both Croatian and English languages for people in wheelchairs.
Metlink's Accessibility Action Plan Lays Foundation For A More Inclusive Public Transport Network (scoop.co.nz)
Metlink is taking significant steps towards enhancing accessibility on its network through its newly proposed Accessibility Action Plan, presented to regional councillors at this morning’s meeting of the Transport Committee.
ITV Studios Appoints First In-House Access Coordinator as Part of Television Accessibility Initiative (hollywoodreporter.com)
Bethany Matthews will work alongside all seven ITV Studios’ drama labels and their production teams to ensure support and solutions are available to those who are Deaf, disabled, neurodivergent or have long-term health conditions.
Shine Music Festival Lights The Way To Universal Accessibility With Cutting-Edge Adaptive Technology (liveforlivemusic.com)
Shine Music Festival, the world's largest universally designed festival, will return to Denver with state-of-the-art adaptive technology.
Slack’s New Redesign Illustrates Its ‘Non-Negotiable’ Commitment To Building Accessible Tools For Work (forbes.com)
Popular workplace communication tool Slack this week announced a major revamp of its software. In a blog post, the Salesforce-owned company described the reimagined user interface as being “built for focus” by using what it calls “better organization and [a] more intuitive layout.” The new interface, which began rolling out on Thursday, will continue to propagate over the coming months, according to Slack.
Mobility Tech Maker Reyhee Hopes To ‘Revolutionize Accessibility’ With New Foldable SuperLite Wheelchair (forbes.com)
In a press release published on Tuesday, Los Angeles-based mobility technology maker Reyhee announced the all-new Reyhee SuperLite.
Autio Chief Executive Officer Woody Sears Talks Accessible Sightseeing, Autonomous Vehicle Tech, More In Interview (forbes.com)
Santa Barbara-based startup Autio has a unique conceit for its product: provide drivers with what it describes on its website as “professionally edited and narrated audio vignettes” of places and landmarks as they drive through them. The company, which was co-founded by Kevin Costner, delivers these experience through an app currently only available on iOS (an Android version is coming soon). The stories are narrated by such celebrities as Phil Jackson and John Lithgow.
Amyloid-Targeting Class of Alzheimer Disease Drugs Show Potential, Raise Concerns of Accessibility for Diverse Patients (pharmacytimes.com)
Advancements in the development of amyloid-targeting monoclonal antibodies show promise for treating Alzheimer disease, but there have been concerns around cost, adverse reactions, and inequity of care for marginalized patients.
Airlines keeping their word on accessibility (travelweekly.com)
Flyers with disabilities have had to struggle through an air travel system that must simply feel indifferent to their challenges. But that page has begun to turn.
Financial Institutions Doing Digital Accessibility Right (equidox.co)
Equidox PDF Accessibility Solutions Blog. Learn about the latest technology advancements, legal news, and PDF remediation tips.
Accessibility in Web Design Paving the Way for Inclusivity in London (urbanmatter.com)
In this article, we explore briefly the importance of web accessibility and how London is paving the way for inclusivity in the digital industry.
Audit finds many state parks lack proper amenities for disabled visitors (timesunion.com)
Some parks had misleading accessibility information online and others had incorrect accessibility signage.
Do sensory hours make stores more accessible to neurodivergent people? (wbfo.org)
This back-to-school season, Walmart announced sensory hours. WBFO asked parents and neurodivergent adults if these sensory hours were helpful to their experiences.
For this State Department operative, the wheelchair has been a challenge but not an obstacle (federalnewsnetwork.com)
She’s a successful State Department negotiator dealing with the United Nations, no less. She’s a lifelong athlete, excelling in several sports including rock climbing. And, she conducts her life from a wheelchair. Sofija Korac just received national recognition for work on behalf of people with disabilities.
Price of elder care soars as demand increases, baby boomers age (thehill.com)
Many Americans who serve as caregivers are consumed by the immense cost of tending to ailing or aging family members.
New York State Parks should improve accessibility for disabled visitors, audit finds (fingerlakes1.com)
An extensive audit of New York State parks has revealed the need for significant improvements to cater to visitors with disabilities.
‘I’m trying to inspire people’: Chelmsford disability advocate to pen autobiography (lowellsun.com)
Frankie Radgowski’s mission is to “make my town more wheelchair-accessible,” he said.
How 'Big Brother' made the game accessible for deaf player Matt Klotz (ew.com)
Secret blindfolded missions. Fancy technology. Hidden monitors. Here's how 'Big Brother' got the house and game — including an audio-themed competition — ready for deaf contestant Matt Klotz.
The 1 Thing You Need To Stop Doing In Public Restrooms ASAP (huffpost.com)
“Stop and think how would you feel if someone compromised your independence simply for their own convenience,” one wheelchair access advocate noted.
South Carolina organization launches campaign to enhance polling accessibility for disabled voters (wpde.com)
General elections are about three months away and one South Carolina organization is launching a campaign to make voting at the polls more inclusive and remove barriers.
New Museum of the City of New York exhibit showcases decades-long fight for accessibility across city (cbsnews.com)
New Yorkers have a proud history of pushing back against disability discrimination.
In searing 'indictment' of Hollywood diversity, USC film study shows 16 years of stasis (latimes.com)
Movies are hardly more inclusive than they were in 2007, a new USC Annenberg study shows. 'It’s so predictable, it’s almost tragic,' said author Stacy L. Smith.
Mayor Adams says all Ubers, Lyfts must be emissions-free or wheelchair-accessible by 2030 (gothamist.com)
The proposed rule change could open the door to even more app-based for-hire vehicles on city streets.
Top tips to ensure inclusive and accessible job postings (openaccessgovernment.org)
It is time for employers to start promoting inclusive and accessible job postings to help accommodate all those who are looking for work. Here are some tips to get started.
New Accessibility Rule Could Impact Employees with Disabilities (shrm.org)
The U.S. Access Board issued a final rule that provides guidelines for the accessibility of pedestrian facilities in the public right-of-way. Workplace and legal experts say the guidelines could support the needs of employees with disabilities.
USC study reveals Hollywood studios are still lagging when it comes to inclusivity (npr.org)
A new University of Southern California report pinpoints areas that need improvement — as well as a few small wins.
Accessible travel has never been easier with these vacation spots in the U.S. (nzherald.co.nz)
Adventure for all: Vacation spots in the USA with excellent accessibility.
‘I refuse to get old’: how readers strive to keep dementia at bay (theguardian.com)
Researchers say lifestyle changes could prevent up to 40% of dementia cases. Our readers share their efforts to mitigate the risk.
Access Israel founder shares goal to make Jewish state accessible (jpost.com)
Yuval Wagner was an IDF pilot who became paralyzed after a helicopter crash. Now he runs the NGO Access Israel with the goal of making the Jewish state more accessible to people with disabilities.
Stormzy Interpreter On Making Grime Accessible (thisisdig.com)
Stormzy has collaborated with British Sign Language interpreter Chris Fonseca to make grime accessible to deaf music fans.
Call for action over lack of accessible taxis (9news.com.au)
When Belle Owen books a cab, she says it's pure chance whether her ride will show up.
Teesside disabled gig-goer describes feeling scared at venues (bbc.com)
Nick Copson said he had been to three gigs where there was no space on the accessible platforms.
New Technology To Boost Tram Accessibility (nationaltribune.com.au)
Blind and low vision passengers on Melbourne’s tram network will be able to get to where they need to go more easily thanks to a new navigation app and the Andrews Labor Government.
Belinda's vision for a more accessible and inclusive world (moretondaily.com.au)
After touring the world playing her chosen sport of boccia, Belinda Harris, who lives with cerebral palsy, has chosen to devote her life to improving accessibility and inclusivity for the one in six Australians who live with a disability. Find out how she is changing the world and what her future goals are here
N.B. disability advocate welcomes progress on accessibility legislation (country94.ca)
A disability advocate is pleased to see progress being made on creating accessibility legislation.
Cool careers in music: Ché Leader is creating an accessible music industry (musictech.com)
dBs Institute alumni Ché Leader discusses creating a more accessible music industry and how he got to where he is today.
‘A dream come true’: Ontario glamping resort provides free retreat for families of children with disabilities (globalnews.ca)
Whispering Springs Glamping Resort in Grafton hosted Camp Moonlight, in which 20 families from across Canada and the U.S. enjoyed free luxury camping and other amenities.
School Edu Dept to make all institutions schools 'disabled-friendly’ by 2024 (risingkashmir.com)
Following the directives of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), School Education Department Wednesday said that it will make all ‘schools disabled friendly’ by 2024 and will ensure all provisions for specially abled students.
Dev Home adds accessibility improvements, fixes in latest preview update (onmsft.com)
Microsoft has unveiled the latest update for Dev Home, bringing enhancements and fixes. The release, which showcases Dev Home Preview version 0.4 and the Dev Home GitHub extension at version 0.4, is available for installation through the Microsoft Store or the GitHub releases page. This update strongly emphasizes augmenting accessibility and overall quality, with an exciting feature on the horizon that promises to integrate Azure DevOps and introduce Azure DevOps widgets to Dev Home.
What to expect from Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.2 (designweek.co.uk)
In its fourth update in 24 years, the WCAG has six new guidelines that look to improve digital experiences for users with vision, motor and cognitive disabilities.
Celebrating the importance of accessibility at the 26th Rail Business Awards (railwaygazette.com)
UK: The Rail Business Awards has long sought to acknowledge and celebrate the efforts that the rail industry has made to provide transport for all.
Why the Case for Accessible Design Has Never Been Stronger (lbbonline.com)
With help from Hung Le, co-founder and creative director at BIEN, and Kyle Wheeler, group creative director at R/GA, LBB explores why accessible design makes good ethical and business sense while uncovering accessible design’s creative possibilities.
Housing for Individuals with Disabilities (nlc.org)
Roughly 27% of adults in the United States live with a disability. Individuals with a disability often struggle, like many today, to find adequate, accessible housing at affordable prices.
Jackie Champions Disability Fight to Use The Web (bdaily.co.uk)
An award-winning North-East web designer is joining forces with organisations and business groups to spread the word about the importance of accessibility, making sure that anyone with a disability or impairment can use the internet with ease.
DOJ Releases Long Awaited Notice Of Proposed Rulemaking Seeking To Increase Accessibility Of Websites And Mobile Applications Of State And Local Governments (hrlawwatch.com)
On August 4, 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice (“DOJ”) released its highly anticipated proposed changes to the regulations implementing Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”). Title II prohibits state and local governments from discriminating against individuals with disabilities. The regulations aim to increase accessibility of websites and mobile applications by clarifying how these public entities can meet their ADA obligations on a technical level. The DOJ commented that as state and local governments increasingly move their programs online (including permit applications, absentee ballots, and payment of taxes and fees), ensuring individuals with disabilities have equal access to those governmental services is essential. While the DOJ’s proposed rule does not propose changes to Title III of the ADA (applying to places of public accommodation), these proposed rules may very well serve as a guide for places of public accommodation subject to Title III.
Explore the Healthy Brain Initiative Road Map (alz.org)
Learn how public health professionals can take action to address dementia and improve brain health in all communities.
A Cast Member's ABLEIST Comment Ignites Internet Debate Over Disney's Accessibility Services (disneydining.com)
Is Disney being too lenient on Disability requirements, or are people just Ableist?
WP Community Collective Funds First Fellowship for Accessibility Contributor Alex Stine (wptavern.com)
The WP Community Collective (WPCC), a non-profit organization created to support individual WordPress contributors and community-led initiatives, has funded its first fellowship. Alex Stine, a fully blind individual contributor who has been working with the WordPress Accessibility team since 2016, is the first recipient of the funds designated for the fellowship.
Accessible vehicles: Regaining independence after a life-changing injury (motortradenews.com)
When faced with a life-changing injury, one of the foremost concerns is often regaining independence and mobility. Thanks to advancements in technology and the availability of accessible vehicles, individuals with disabilities now have more options than ever before. In this comprehensive blog post, we will explore the world of accessible vehicles and provide valuable insights and tips on how to regain independence and mobility after a life-altering injury.
Inclusion matters: How GitHub enhances accessibility for individuals with disabilities (e27.co)
Exploring the tech industry's commitment to inclusivity, the strides made in workplace accessibility, and the transformative power of diverse perspectives.
The Curb Cut Effect: How Accessible Architecture is Benefiting Everybody (archdaily.com)
From small adaptations to widespread benefits - uncover the curb cut effect in architecture and urban design.
Accessibility Virtual Reality: How to Add Captions Using Open Source (equalentry.com)
Closed captions provide another way for people to get audio information in various media formats, such as movies and TV shows. Captions are essential to ensure that dialogue, sound effects, and music are accessible to people who are deaf or hard of hearing. This holds true in virtual reality (VR), where captions enhance the accessibility of games, social worlds, and other immersive experiences.
Raising a child with disabilities amid accessibility shortcomings (pompediseasenews.com)
Columnist Keara Engle explains the challenges of raising a child with disabilities due to infantile-onset Pompe disease.
‘Hello, Bob’: President Trump called my cellphone to say that the health-care bill was dead (washingtonpost.com)
“So, we just pulled it,” Trump said of he bill he had touted.
The rise of the useless class (ideas.ted.com)
Historian Yuval Noah Harari offers a bracing prediction: just as mass industrialization created the working class, the AI revolution will create a new unworking class.
Opinion | In a robot showdown, humanity may happily surrender (washingtonpost.com)
Yuval Noah Harari ponders the future of humanism.
Against Technoableism (wwnorton.com)
A manifesto exploding what we think we know about disability, and arguing that disabled people are the real experts when it comes to technology and disability.
'Worst nightmare': Family calls for stricter mask policies after vulnerable Ottawa woman contracts COVID in hospital (ottawacitizen.com)
An Ottawa woman, already battling Stage 3 lung cancer and pneumonia, contracted COVID-19 at The Ottawa Hospital. Her family wants answers.
Decades after state institutions shut down, their history could shape the country’s approach to prisons (19thnews.org)
Decarceration efforts led to the closure of psychiatric hospitals and large facilities that warehoused people with disabilities. Activists against mass incarceration can learn from the past.
Planned Parenthood Illinois Action Creates Disability Centered Advocacy Program, First in Organization’s History (rebelliousmagazine.com)
When Planned Parenthood Illinois Action initially hired Claire McNorton to assist in the opening of the organization’s Waukegan health center, a storm of monumental events hit that forced her to pivot.
MITComic (spinweaveandcut.com)
After two years of convening conversations about how to make comics accessible for blind and low vision readers, we decided it was time to try it ourselves! This page provides access materials and annotations that accompany the print comic “Comics Beyond Sight: A Highly Visual Case for Blind Access,” by Nick Sousanis and Emily Beitiks which appeared in MIT Technology Review’s June 2023 issue (See their interactive version here). LISTEN to the Audio version of the comic here.
Experts sound alarm as 'Pirola' Covid variant found in Britain (dailymail.co.uk)
UK Health Security Agency bosses did not reveal exactly how many cases have been spotted so far. But top scientists claim the discovery means 'we can be pretty sure it's circulating more widely'.
For deaf children in Texas foster care, limited accessibility compounds trauma (texastribune.org)
Advocates say better accounting of deaf and hard-of-hearing children in the state’s care and better access to translators are needed.
Special Olympics Athletes Become History Makers in Participating in First UCI World Championships (specialolympics.org)
Four Special Olympics Great Britain athletes recently made history by taking part in a demonstration race at the first ever Glasgow 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships.
Government side-stepping UN examination ‘shows contempt for disabled people’ (disabilitynewsservice.com)
The UK government has been accused of showing contempt for disabled people after it refused to give evidence on its progress since being found guilty of “grave and systematic” violations of the UN’s disability convention seven years ago.
Deaf actor portrays Romeo in American Players Theatre's 'Romeo and Juliet' (madison.com)
Joshua Castille, a deaf actor, is playing Romeo in the new American Players Theatre production of "Romeo and Juliet" in Spring Green.
Disabled passengers hail robotaxi pluses (cbsnews.com)
While there's been a lot of backlash in San Francisco over autonomous cabs, some riders actually prefer them. Lauren Toms reports (8-17-23)
Theatre for All Actor Training Program 2023 | Queens Theatre (queenstheatre.org)
Queens Theatre is proud to present the fourth year of its Theatre for All Training Program, taking place in June 2020. Due to the coronavirus, this year's workshops and events will be hosted virtually by Queens Theatre. Applications are due by Friday, May 28, 2021 at 12 pm EST.
Deaf community feeling excluded at Renaissance Festival after decades of free accessibility (fox9.com)
Members of the deaf community feel like the Renaissance Festival is excluding them after suggesting interpreters should be getting paid, and got nothing but silence as a response.
American Airlines Dropped My Wheelchair — And Planned to Hide It (wheelchairtravel.org)
Airlines frequently damage wheelchairs, but even when a power wheelchair is dropped, they can't be trusted to inform passengers.
‘I had to stay in the house’: in regional NSW, it’s getting harder to find a wheelchair taxi (theguardian.com)
Some cab companies have closed or no longer offer accessible vehicles – and Australians in wheelchairs are left isolated.
How to Talk to your Doctor About your Sexual Health (crippingupsexwitheva.gumroad.com)
Some doctors assume people with disabilities don't have sex, so they may not ask you the right questions. Evan will provide you with advice on how to talk to your doc, getting routine testing for sexually transmitted infections and how to find a doc!
Queers on Wheels e-Book (crippingupsexwitheva.gumroad.com)
Queers On Wheels created a resource guide for disabled people who want to explore their sexuality. This guide includes information about how to hire open-minded and queer-friendly aides, maintaining a good relationship with your aides, how to adapt sex toys, sex positions, and assisted masturbation. Since this information is not readily available, we decided to put all this information in one convenient place: the Queers On Wheels book! We hope the guide helps other disabled people lead a complete and full life - one that incorporates sexuality. This is not a class, it is a PDF version of my book.
Different, Not Less: A neurodivergent's guide to embracing your true self and finding your happily ever after (amazon.de)
Growing up, Chloé Hayden felt like she'd crash-landed on an alien planet where nothing made sense. Eye contact? Small talk? And why are you people so touch-oriented? She moved between 10 schools in 8 years, struggling to become a person she believed society would accept, and was eventually diagnosed with autism and ADHD. When a life-changing group of allies showed her that different did not mean less, she learned to celebrate her true voice and find her happily ever after.
It's Important to Focus on Ourselves Sometimes (despitepain.com)
It's important to take time out of life sometimes to just focus on ourselves. It's not being selfish doing so. It's vital.
Happy Just to “Be” 30 (retrospectivelily.wordpress.com)
There is a lot of doom and gloom around the idea of turning 30, presented in an odd joking-yet-not-really way. Ha, you’re not a little kid anymore! Ha, your youth is dead! As a person with a progressive disease (Friedreich’s Ataxia) that causes hypertrophic cardiomyopathy aka potentially fatal heart issues, my perspective varies tremendously from…
Access Card In High Demand (criplife.co.uk)
As more families ditch holiday plans for a fun day out closer to home, application for Nimbus Disability's Access Card have soured over the summer months.
Disability Inclusion Benefits Everyone (rwjf.org)
The disability agenda should be everyone’s agenda, and the power of collaboration is key to creating inclusive, accessible, and equitable communities for all.
‘I don’t like people feeling sorry for us’: inside the world of TV’s disabled dating shows (theguardian.com)
Disability-specific romance series are on the rise, including new Netflix series Down for Love. But are they more harmful than helpful? Insiders talk backlashes, ableism and why ‘we all deserve that special someone’.
Temperature Regulation Tips for Wheelchair Users (newmobility.com)
Tips and resources to help you enjoy the climate wherever you are.
All signs point to a late summer COVID wave (axios.com)
COVID-19 is on the upswing once again, per closely watched metrics.
The four pillars of accessibility overlay marketing (accessability.substack.com)
Fear, Guilt, Inspiration Porn, and Pay to Play.
Moving from accessibility testing into management (accessability.substack.com)
There are several questions you should be asking yourself before you make the leap.
When does a disability accommodation become a personal benefit? (accessability.substack.com)
A question that is currently winding its way through American courts.
People with disabilities and sports (accessability.substack.com)
We want to be spectators. Many of us want to be or are, participants. So why is it that we face so many freaking barriers?
What do American employers owe their employees with mental health conditions (accessability.substack.com)
This situation will become more prevalent thanks to the pandemic.
COVID-19 vaccine workplace accommodation requests (accessability.substack.com)
Requests for workplace vaccine exemptions due to medical conditions is a huge reasonable accommodations issue.
Nothing Without Us and the Accessible Canada Act (accessability.substack.com)
Canada flexes its accessibility superpower muscles by passing the Accessible Canada Act and beginning the campaign “Nothing Without Us”.
Making a disability-related COVID vaccination accommodation request (accessability.substack.com)
As companies solidify their approach to employees and vaccination, these requests will become increasingly more common.
Enable Accessibility (accessability.substack.com)
A new accessibility approach to an old accessibility problem.
“Informal accommodations” are worth the paper they are printed on (accessability.substack.com)
Many American employees are discovering this as they attempt to continue working from home while their employers are trying to force them back into the office.
You should NOT be able to resell accessible seating tickets. (accessability.substack.com)
You must certify that you have a disability to buy an ADA ticket. Why should you be able to resell it at an inflated price to someone without a disability?
Parenting a child with a disability (accessability.substack.com)
Some things that parents of disabled children know that might not be so obvious to others.
What it’s like to be a liberal, female, disabled archery competitor (accessability.substack.com)
My last two tournaments have involved some terrible comments from other competitors. I won the last one anyways.
Most of the 25 largest American universities spectacularly fail students with disabilities (accessability.substack.com)
Ultimately lack of digital accessibility will prevent us from becoming a sustainable society.
Want an employee who is a natural problem solver? Hire someone with a Disability (accessability.substack.com)
Employers should be seeking out employees with disabilities, not avoiding them.
Even free software needs VPATs … (accessability.substack.com)
…If you want a Section 508-regulated organization to use it.
Do internet-only businesses come under the Americans with Disabilities Act? (accessability.substack.com)
In theory, absolutely. But it’s taking federal courts a while to get there. Meanwhile, Web3 is coming, and blockchain is already here.
How the Gig Economy impacts People with Disabilities (accessability.substack.com)
Participating in the gig economy is a mixed bag and not even always available to people with disabilities.
International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP) position statement on overlays (accessability.substack.com)
Last fall, IAAP established an Overlay Task Force after increased concern from their membership about the activities of Overlay companies in the context of their membership in IAAP.
Phrases that you might not realize are ableist (accessability.substack.com)
Calling out ableist language is the first step to rehabilitating a disability non-inclusive environment.
Why I’m still wearing a mask (accessability.substack.com)
Mask regulations have been lifted for fully vaccinated Americans, but wearing masks for some of us will never be optional.
Government failing disabled people, watchdog says (bbc.co.uk)
People with disabilities continue to face discrimination in the UK, says a report.
Disability News and Mental Health, Interview Special: Victoria Canal and Tommy Jessop (bbc.co.uk)
Musician Victoria Canal hits the big time, but still struggles with imposter syndrome.
This Photo is Evidence That We Need to Revisit Wheelchair Taxi Regulations (wheelchairtravel.org)
Wheelchair users frequently wait hours for an accessible taxi to turn up — with no guarantee that a ride will come.
Disability representation in media (urevolution.com)
Dive into the depth and diversity of disability representation in the media. Explore why authentic portrayals matter and how they can reshape society's perceptions.
Commonwealth Children & Youth Disability Network Co-Chair (Youth) – Three Expression Of Interest Received (includemetoo.org.uk)
My commitment to CCYDN is evident through my key contributions since joining the executive, including drafting submissions on Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights and the Youth Code of Practice.
‘I was different, not broken’: how my autism diagnosis changed my life (theguardian.com)
As her sons were diagnosed on the autism spectrum, Sandra Thom-Jones began to wonder if she too was autistic – and then fear that she wasn’t.
They deserve more: Honor the Americans with Disabilities Act by ensuring access to care (thehill.com)
Wednesday, July 26 marked the 33rd anniversary of the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA ensures that disabled people can’t be discriminated against when accessing jobs, schools, transportation and all other public entities, yet despite its existence many barriers still remain that keep true equality from disabled Americans. What many people don’t realize is that the future of many of the rights promised by the ADA are intertwined with our funding of Medicaid.
Should you describe yourself and your location in remote meetings? (accessability.substack.com)
Absolutely, but there needs to be a balance between the right amount of data and Too Much Information (TMI).
Groups that don’t care about people with disabilities (accessability.substack.com)
I can no longer support “disability as an afterthought”.
What’s in a name (sign)? (accessability.substack.com)
A lot. Here’s why workplace name pronunciation features need to include the ability to add phonetics and video for name signs.
Why doing an instant ADA website compliance review is a terrible idea (accessability.substack.com)
TL;DR — you will get an inaccurate, incomplete, and biased report of your actual accessibility status, plus potentially create significant legal liability.
A tale of two retailers — a disability inclusion story (accessability.substack.com)
Lowes went all in to include deaf employees. Sprouts Market did the opposite. Here is how that has worked out for both companies.
The ADA lawsuit settlement involving an accessibility overlay (accessability.substack.com)
What the settlement agreement included, and what does it mean for the industry?
Tommy Jessop Goes To Hollywood To Pitch Superhero Movie (criplife.co.uk)
Line of Duty actor Tommy Jessop is on a mission to show that people with Down syndrome can play heroes too. He’s starred in high-profile TV programmes and short films, and now he wants to be a leading man. But the right roles are not being offered to him, so Tommy decides to take matters into his own hands. With the help of his brother, filmmaker Will Jessop, Tommy sets off on an epic creative journey to develop his own superhero movie and pitch it in Hollywood. This is a warm, funny and original documentary about daring to dream, created by Tommy and Will.
THE EVERY DAY STRIPPER (quirkyquad.com)
My life. It’s complex. It can be challenging and downright overwhelming at times. I find humor in places that most likely would not – even when I’m tied down to a hospital bed in China after major spinal surgery in the ICU.
What does an “accessibility flywheel” look like? (accessability.substack.com)
Flywheels distill complicated sets of business processes down to the most critical inflection points, enhancing stakeholder focus.
Technology doesn’t make accessibility hard. People who don’t care do (accessability.substack.com)
Everything that makes accessibility difficult ties back to one root cause: People not giving a damn about others who are different.
Seven Steps to Processing a “Teachable Moment” (accessability.substack.com)
Teachable moments suck. Here’s how I make them suck less.
The Accessibility Profession Can Be Stressful, Exhausting, and Frustrating (accessability.substack.com)
The Accessibility Profession Can Be Stressful, Exhausting, and Frustrating.
Female leaders are better at ensuring people with disabilities aren’t excluded (accessability.substack.com)
Good news, but simultaneously depressing because female leadership is so vastly underrepresented in both government and private business
'I don’t care if I’m called a one-legged bastard': Kurt Yaeger on being an actor and amputee (amp-theguardian-com.cdn.ampproject.org)
The Sons of Anarchy star talks about overcoming prejudice, the power of humour and why Hollywood is finally waking up to the ‘disability dollar’.
To Disclose, or not to Disclose (accessability.substack.com)
That really is the question. And one lived by people with disabilities on a VERY regular basis when interviewing.
Ethical design and accessibility (accessability.substack.com)
If your design is providing a benefit to one group of people at the detriment of another, it may not be ethical.
Newly Disabled People Aren’t Given a ‘How-To’ Guide. Disability Doulas Are Closing Those Gaps (goodgoodgood.co)
The community care practice, pioneered by queer women of color, reorients newly disabled people to a different life — a necessity that has grown during the pandemic era.
Andrew Rogoyski (axschat.com)
Andrew’s experience spans 30 years in industry, government and academia. Originally a physicist at the Rutherford Appleton Lab, Andrew joined Logica at the height of the early AI boom, a decade later moving to space consultancy Esys, then became MD of QinetiQ’s Space Division, where early AI techniques were being applied to applications like satellite imagery. Andrew subsequently worked as a strategist, specialising in innovation and cyber security, including secondment to Cabinet Office, before becoming CGI’s Vice President of cyber security, where AI methods were used for threat detection. Andrew joined Roke Manor Research as Innovation Director, developing a number of products and services that utilised leading edge AI techniques. Andrew returned to academia as Director of Innovation and Partnerships at Surrey’s new Institute of People-Centred Artificial Intelligence, a group that leverages the University’s 35 years in AI by developing a new focus on creating AI solutions that focus on delivering benefit to people and society.
'Sleeping in my car.' This Supreme Court case could change how disabled Americans book hotel rooms (eu.usatoday.com)
Some advocates fear a Supreme Court case on ADA 'testers' could make it harder to force hotels to include accessibility information at booking.
Disability benefits changes needed to get long-term sick back in work, Labour says (inews.co.uk)
Statistics show the number of people out of work with long-term sickness has increased to a record highs.
Looking for some interesting summer reading? (enil.eu)
Not sure which book(s) to read this summer? Well, with our team, we’ve organized a reading list around topics such as independent living, disability rights and human rights.
Podcast Ep1: Gopal Mitra and the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy. (srdisability.org)
The UN system has not ratified the UN Convention on the rights of persons with disabilities because it lacks the legal standing to do so. That left a very big gap. Since 2019, this gap is filled by the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy, which effectively commits the UN system to voluntarily comply with the treaty. This can accelerate change and assist states in their own reform work. On this episode, host and UN Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities talks to Gopal Mitra, coordinator of the implementation of the United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy.
Sipping Dom Pérignon Through a Straw (disability-visibility-newsletter.ghost.io)
Some of y'all know that I have been a proponent and user of plastic straws. Straws are an accessibility tool! I was delighted to see the title of Eddie Ndopu's new memoir, Sipping Dom Pérignon Through a Straw: Reimagining Success as a Disabled Achiever because I used to sip champagne through a straw too!
LAB Community Programs (kineticlight.org)
LAB is an online community that offers a series of monthly gatherings for disabled artists and creatives. Our community is made up of and welcomes anyone who experiences disability, including but not limited to those who identify as chronically ill, neurodivergent, with learning or intellectual disabilities, MAD, Deaf/deaf/HOH, Blind, low vision and more. We welcome all who are unsure or who might not yet identify with disability to this cross-disability space.
Summary - ALLways: Centering Disability in Strategy, Systems & Structures (web.cvent.com)
This access in the arts workshop is a three hour participatory workshop for organizations, funders, and venue administrators, with novice to intermediate experience with disability or accessibility. This session is ideal for people who want to move deeper into their personal access equity practice or who are interested in disability equity strategy and policy for organizations in the wider arts ecosystem.
Summary - ALLways: Producing Accessible Online Events (web.cvent.com)
This access in the arts workshop is a three hour participatory, online workshop for arts organizations, producers, and event organizers with new to intermediate levels of experience with disability or accessibility. This session focuses on hosting online events such as livestreamed performances, panels, or community gatherings.
Access ALLways (kineticlight.org)
ALLways is the distillation of our understanding and creation of access that we share with the broader arts community. This curriculum is grounded in transformative personal and organizational work: not a checklist, but a shared exploration of principles to create equity and hospitality across your art, events, programs, and organizations.
Live SXSW Performance of "Trust" (youtube.com)
Check out my SXSW performance of “Trust”, repping disability culture alongside Deafinitely Dope (who stole the show btw, AmIRight?)
How 'Big Brother' made the game accessible for deaf player Matt Klotz (ew.com)
Secret blindfolded missions. Fancy technology. Hidden monitors. Here's how 'Big Brother' got the house and game — including an audio-themed competition — ready for deaf contestant Matt Klotz.
I Begged My Doctors To Figure Out What Was Wrong With Me. Instead, I Was Medically Gaslit. (huffpost.com)
"'Great news!' she said. 'They looked at your labs and history. It turns out ... there’s nothing wrong with you!'"
University of Illinois developing 'Star Wars'-inspired self-driving wheelchair (fox32chicago.com)
For their latest life-changing invention, University of Illinois researchers took inspiration from Star Wars. They've developed a hands-free wheelchair, that could eventually operate like a self-driving car.
Opinion: The rights of disabled people should be embedded with sustainable development plans (thejournal.ie)
Claire Kenny says disabled people must not be forgotten in the plans for sustainable living.
Drug Shortages Not Only Exacerbate Healthcare Burnout But Can Also Harm Patient Care (medcitynews.com)
The second quarter of 2023 ended with 309 active drug shortages, the highest total in nearly a decade, according to a new report from ASHP. One of the organization’s executives pointed out that drug shortages have two major impacts on health systems: they create a lot of extra work for the pharmacy department, and they force clinicians to make tough decisions about patient care that could potentially result in worse patient outcomes.
Rituals for Climate Change: A Crip Struggle for Ecojustice (punctumbooks.com)
Disability justice and ecojustice are rarely considered together but are in constant conversation in our world. Rituals for Climate Change: A Crip Struggle for Ecojustice, combining poetry and the lyrical essay, doesn’t contain just one point of view but encompasses dialectical perspectives which often exist in contradiction to each other. A disabled person is in need of plastic cups and concerned about the overwhelming plastic in our ecosystems. Ortiz expands on and complicates who is seen as an environmentalist and what being in relationship with the land can look like.
Kids Across the Spectrums: Growing Up Autistic in the Digital Age (direct.mit.edu)
An ethnographic study of diverse children on the autism spectrum and the role of media and technology in their everyday lives.
Disabled people on benefits aren’t your enemy (metro.co.uk)
You’d be forgiven for thinking that we’re all living in the lap of luxury.
First Look At The New Toxic Avenger Movie: Peter Dinklage Wields The Mop As Toxie (empireonline.com)
Kevin Bacon and Elijah Wood also star. See the image at Empire.
Becoming Dotty About Braille (blindnewworld.org)
Hayley Kellard combined entrepreneurial spirit and talent with a brailler to build Dotty About Braille, a braille greeting card business.
#BringBackCaptions: Why I’m calling on BBC News to end deaf discrimination on Instagram (liamodell.com)
Ironically, the inclusion of detailed, burned-in captions was once the jewel in the crown of BBC News’ Instagram content, but not long after the King’s coronation earlier this year, the large news organisation decided it could no longer be bothered to include the feature which makes its videos accessible to Deaf people like me.
Ministers’ failures mean disabled people in UK face growing poverty risk – report (theguardian.com)
Watchdog says little progress made on recommendations of 2016 report that said government violated disabled people’s rights.
‘A form of discrimination’: Australia’s school system accused of failing neurodiverse kids (theguardian.com)
A new report has highlighted the exclusion students with additional learning needs experience – and the lack of resources that is often the cause.
The Hidden Sunflower Program (michellesmission.net)
When you travel with a hidden disability it can be frustrating, because people cannot see your needs. People can not see your disability because it's not visible and may not understand why things are difficult for you. Thankfully various programs can help a person with a hidden disability be able to travel. Recently I had the opportunity to use The Hidden Sunflower Program on a trip.
Israeli NGO promotes summertime accessibility with transportation services (disabilityinsider.com)
In a bid to promote summertime accessibility and mobility, Israeli NGO Yad Sarah reported that volunteer drivers of its fleet of accessible vans have provided over 4,400 rides for individuals who are wheelchair-bound through June and July 2023 alone. Unlike other forms of transportation such as buses with set routes or accessible taxis that charge … Continue reading "Israeli NGO promotes summertime accessibility with transportation services"
Nominations open for Awards for People with Disability (disabilityinsider.com)
Nominations for the Geelong Awards for People with Disability have opened, celebrating people with disability in Greater Geelong who are doing outstanding work in advocacy, leadership, employment and empowering others.
Exclusion and bullying of disabled students runs rampant in Australian schools (disabilityinsider.com)
Children and Young People with Disability (CYDA), with their partners at the Melbourne Graduate School of Education, University of Melbourne, and UNSW Canberra, have released three survey reports on the experiences of children and young people with disability in early childhood and education settings. The results are confronting. In early childhood settings, 29 per cent … Continue reading "Exclusion and bullying of disabled students runs rampant in Australian schools"
The Internet Warriors (youtube.com)
Why do so many people use the internet to harass and threaten people, and stretch the freedom of speech to its limits? Director Kyrre Lien meets a global group of strongly opinionated individuals, who spend their time debating online on the subjects they care most strongly about. Online platforms are their favourite tools to express the opinions that others might find objectionable in language that often offends. Do they behave in the same way when they come offline?
Day Al-Mohamed: Why Media Created by Disabled Artists is So Important (disabilityphilanthropy.org)
An explanation of how disability representation in media shapes public perceptions.
Cerebral palsy: ‘Should I be fixed?’ (youtu.be)
TV presenter and activist Paddy Smyth has cerebral palsy, a condition that affects his movement and coordination. He explores the scientific advances and new treatments available to people with cerebral palsy, and asks, if he could ‘fix’ his disability would he even want to?
Right to ‘turn up and go’ for disabled rail passengers ‘under serious threat’ (disabilitynewsservice.com)
The right of disabled people to enjoy spontaneous travel on the rail network is under “serious threat” because of the planned closure of nearly 1,000 ticket offices across England, campaigners warned this week.
Web Accessibility and ADA Compliance WordPress Plugin (purple-lens.com)
Make your business website accessible for all with our web accessibility and ADA compliance WordPress platform plugin at an affordable cost.
InclusiveDocs - Digital Document Accessibility Solutions (inclusivedocs.com)
Ensure compliance and reach all members of your audience by making your web documents accessible with the InclusiveDocs digital document platform.
Talk Disability: Breen's journey to the top (bbc.com)
Before this weekend's World Para-Athletics Championships in Paris, sprinter and long jumper Olivia Breen talks about her life in a film for BBC Wales.
Disability Open Day at K2 Crawley 'most successful ever' as more than 250 children take part (sussexexpress.co.uk)
This year's Disability Open Day at K2 Crawley was enjoyed by more than 250 children, young people and their families.
City’s speed humps hit a bump with disability advocates (windsorstar.com)
Disability advocates sounded alarm bells this week over a traffic calming measure they argue could make it dangerous for some to get around.
She thought she'd get over COVID-19 quickly. Now a long-hauler, she warns others about the 'invisible disease' (cbc.ca)
Leanne Argoso of London, Ont., assumed she would bounce back after getting COVID-19 in March 2022. But the physiotherapist, who struggles with fatigue and is on long-term disability, warns others that long-haul COVID-19 is real. A University of Toronto Toronto epidemiologist says there's still much that isn't known about long COVID-19.
What is Ellie Simmonds' disability as Paralympian stars in ITV documentary (birminghammail.co.uk)
The retired Paralympic swimmer has won a total of eight medals across her career.
Canada invests in youth-driven accessibility projects (disabilityinsider.com)
Youth play a crucial role in driving change both in Canada and internationally, displaying a strong desire to engage within their communities. Canada's Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF) program harnesses this enthusiasm by fostering leadership skills, valuable experiences, and positive community contributions among young Canadians. The program's goal is to enhance accessibility for individuals with disabilities across the country.
Researchers find switches that control dopamine in brain (disabilityinsider.com)
Researchers have identified two ion channel switches that regulate the release of dopamine in the brain, a first step that might one day lead to therapeutics for a wide range of diseases and disorders that currently have few solutions.
Legislation to usher in a new era of inclusion for Tasmanians with disabilities (disabilityinsider.com)
Tasmanian community members are invited to have their say about the new Disability Inclusion Bill 2023 which the Rockliff Liberal Government has designed to keep Tasmanians safe and to provide more inclusion for people with disabilities.
Air pollution from wildfires and farming tied to dementia rise (disabilityinsider.com)
No amount of air pollution is good for the brain, but wildfires and the emissions resulting from agriculture and farming in particular may pose especially toxic threats to cognitive health, according to new research from the University of Michigan.
Accessibility is not inclusive design or disability rights. It’s a part of it (yatil.net)
Accessibility is mainly a set of practices that allow practitioners to build their product in a way that does not introduce obvious barriers for users. To do that effectively, of course they need to learn about the disabled experience and how people (in my case) use the web. And hopefully that sparks interest and thinking more about disability needs as a whole.
Having A Disability Is Just Part Of Living Life In New Netflix Animated Series ‘Mech Cadets’ (forbes.com)
The series is described by Netflix as involving a "an underdog teen joins a group of young Cadets who’ve been chosen to bond with Robo Mechs fr...
UN calls for investigation of US school's shock treatments of autistic children (theguardian.com)
Massachusetts special-needs facility is believed to be the only one in the world that uses 'aversive therapy' in treating children.
15 Things Not to Say to the Parent of a Child with Special Needs (parents.com)
From the phrases to avoid to the question to ask, here's the best way to support a parent whose child has a disability.
World Health Organization reports 80 percent rise in global COVID infections (wsws.org)
The WHO has confirmed that a wave of COVID infections is washing across the globe. They warn that without a public health edifice to track these latest variants, viral evolution poses an existential threat.
Lily, the Blind Unicorn (descriptive audio book), by Marieke Davis (mariekedavis.bandcamp.com)
This is the creative audio version of "Lily, the Blind Unicorn" by Marieke Davis, based upon her children's book by the same name. This audio version is meant to provide an immersive experience for audiences of all abilities. Special thanks to the National Federation of the Blind-Ohio Chapter and the Lighthouse Guild for their financial support for this print and audio project. Also, special recognition goes to Cal-Berkeley English Professor Georgina Kleege, whose idea of the of the perfect accommodation provided the metaphor and theme for this story. Lastly, thank you to the School of Arts, Media and Engineering at Arizona State University for allowing us to use its recording studio.
Benefit backlog costing disabled people £24m a month, says Citizens Advice (theguardian.com)
Exclusive: more than 430,000 people in England and Wales awaiting review of personal independence payments.
Inside Britain’s only all-wheelchair dance troupe (nbcnews.com)
Helen Mason founded Propel, Britain’s only all-wheelchair-user professional dance company, as a way to raise awareness and give opportunities to dancers with disabilities. NBC News’ Joe Fryer sat down with Mason to share how this troupe is helping breaking barriers and showing that anyone can dance.
Disability Advocates Urge Supreme Court Not To Limit ADA Protections (disabilityscoop.com)
More than a dozen advocacy groups are asking the U.S. Supreme Court to uphold the rights of people with disabilities to sue under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
8 facts about Americans with disabilities (pewresearch.org)
Overall, there are about 42.5 million Americans with disabilities, making up 13% of the civilian noninstitutionalized population.
German far right’s Höcke wants to kick disabled kids out of regular schools (politico.eu)
Disability campaigners and top politicians react with fury to AfD chief’s proposal.