Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is unfit to lead HHS
I’m Raul Krauthausen the founder of SOZIALHELD*INNEN, an NPO and consultancy from Germany, focussing on Disability Mainstreaming. With this newsletter, I share hand-picked links from around the world.
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Thank you,
Raul
Hand-picked news about inclusion, accessibilty and innovation
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is unfit to lead HHS (statnews.com)
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s confirmation hearings made clear that he is unqualified to be HHS secretary even beyond his positions on vaccines, writes Dr. Georges C. Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association.
Iowa to implement new children’s mental health care system under terms of settlement (thegazette.com)
The settlement agreement resolves a 2023 lawsuit that accused the State of Iowa of failing to provide federally required mental and behavioral health care services for Medicaid-eligible children
People with disabilities at higher risk in California wildfires (abcnews.go.com)
They can be left behind in such disasters, experts told ABC News.
Deaf Indigenous Dance Group celebrates rhythm of life (nit.com.au)
The vibrant and rhythmically-charged world of the Deaf Indigenous Dance Group – also known as DIDG – where the art of movement becomes a powerful expression of culture, identity, and resilience is a sight to behold.
Father Creating Career Path For Thousands With Autism (disabilityscoop.com)
Backed by $1 million in funding, a tech entrepreneur is establishing a workforce academy to train people with autism to repair cellphones and other electronics so they can become financially independent.
U.S. facing most intense flu season in at least 15 years (pbs.org)
One indicator of flu activity is the percentage of doctor’s office visits driven by flu-like symptoms. Last week, that number was clearly higher than the peak of any winter flu season since 2009-2010.
Advocates push for open captions at NY State theaters for deaf and hard-of-hearing people (whec.com)
A new push is underway to bring open captions to movie theaters across New York State. While subtitles or captions are common when watching movies at home, they are rarely available in public theaters, which poses a challenge for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Push To Dismantle Ed Department Fuels Worries About Special Education (disabilityscoop.com)
As President Donald Trump doubles down on his pledge to shutter the U.S. Department of Education, the ramifications for students with disabilities could be severe, advocates say.
“Braille for Sports”: This Tech Makes It Easier for Blind Fans to Follow Games in Real Time (mentalfloss.com)
A new tablet uses haptic feedback to put live plays into the hands of sports fans with no or low vision.
Judge orders restoration of federal health websites (npr.org)
The pages that are set to be revived include information for patients about HIV testing and HIV prevention medication, guidance on contraceptives and data on adolescent and youth mental health.
Axis Dance Company (livermorearts.org)
Led by Artistic Director Nadia Adame and Managing Director Danae Rees, AXIS Dance Company is one of the nation’s most acclaimed ensembles of disabled, non-disabled and neurodiverse performers. With their inclusive artistry, AXIS dancers showcase innovative artistic repertory by leading international choreographers, provide educational information on disability, share personal dance history, and introduce the audience to an integrated dance experience. Programs include a 5-minute Q&A session at the end. AXIS provides an Activity Guide for teachers to use with their students prior to and after the performance.
Disability in Focus: Navigating Work Life Getty Images + Verizon 2025 Creative Grant (grants.gettyimages.com)
Getty Images’ mission is to move the world with images. Since the inception of the Getty Images Grants program in 2004, the company has donated over $2.6 million to photojournalists and creative photographers, furthering our commitment to the craft of photography and bringing attention to important stories that may otherwise remain unseen.
Now offline: Government resources about Long COVID as a disability (thesicktimes.org)
Several government resources about accommodations for people with Long COVID have become unavailable in the last week, following purges of government websites and datasets under the Trump administration. These pages offered crucial information about rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for people with Long COVID and their employers.
KENYA HUNTER (apnews.com)
Hunter is an Atlanta-based public health reporter for The Associated Press, covering disabilities and sexual health.
50 Forward: “The Future Is…” (danspaceproject.org)
Over the course of Danspace’s 50th year, we will be celebrating the community, artworkers, and artists that have made these 50 years so fabulous. Danspace has invited 50+ artists with special connections to Danspace to create short films in response to the prompt “The Future Is…” Artists representing all five decades, from the 1970s to the present, were invited to record a 50-second dance or performance.
Exclusive: Trump’s foreign aid freeze stops anti-fentanyl work in Mexico (reuters.com)
US anti-narcotics programs in Mexico are currently halted due to the funding freeze.
Trump State Department official has called for mass sterilization of ‘low-IQ trash’ (independent.co.uk)
Darren Beattie previously served as a speechwriter for Trump, but he was fired in 2018 after he spoke at a conference attended by white nationalists
Senate Confirms Kennedy, a Prominent Vaccine Skeptic, as Health Secretary (nytimes.com)
The vote capped a remarkable rise for Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who was confirmed by a Republican Senate in a chamber where his father and uncles once served as Democrats.
The Power of 504 (full version, open caption, English and Spanish) (youtube.com)
Award-winning 18-minute documentary video, which captures the drama and emotions of the historic civil rights demonstration of people with disabilities in 1977, resulting in the signing of the 504 Regulations, the first Federal Civil Rights Law protecting people with disabilities. Includes contemporary news footage and news interviews with participants and demonstration leaders. Available in open caption, audio descriptive and standard formats.
ASAN Condemns Announcement of President’s “Make America Healthy Again” Commission and Harmful Ideas about Autism and Other Disabilities (autisticadvocacy.org)
On February 13th, the president issued an Executive Order saying that the administration would be establishing a commission to attempt to lower the prevalence of autism and chronic health conditions in the United States. The proposed plan is full of attempts to research thoroughly debunked science, states goals that run counter to the actual actions taken by the administration, and spreads misinformation about autism. ASAN disapproves of the proposed plan, and will be joining efforts to push back against its harmful ideas, as well as the harmful policies proposed by the current administration.
Republican States Claim Zero Abortions. A Red-State Doctor Calls That ‘Ludicrous.’ (kffhealthnews.org)
In several red states, officials say few or no abortions happened in 2023, raising alarm among researchers about the politicization of vital statistics.
Labour MP tells of suicide attempts and homelessness as she warns of assisted dying bill dangers (disabilitynewsservice.com)
A Labour MP has spoken of her own experience of suicide attempts and homelessness – and her mother’s imprisonment for killing an abusive partner – to warn of the risks the assisted suicide bill would pose to prisoners and homeless people.
Fifty countries affected by USAID freeze, says WHO chief (bbc.com)
HIV treatments and other services have been disrupted, says Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Disabled couples can't get married without losing benefits; here's why (fox6now.com)
A FOX6 investigation found that a law has some couples with permanent disabilities living a life of forbidden love.
Tuberculosis in Kansas, Ebola virus update, and rising egg prices due to bird flu outbreak 2025 (youtube.com)
What is going on with eggs in the U.S.? Is there a new strain of bird flu? How do you treat TB? How is TB transmitted? What is the most recent Ebola outbreak?
What to Know About the H5N9 Bird Flu (time.com)
The latest variant was found on a farm in California.
First Outbreak of Highly Pathogenic H5N9 Reported in U.S. Ducks (scientificamerican.com)
Nearly 119,000 birds have been culled at a farm in California after a bird flu called H5N9 was detected among the poultry
Texas judge fines NY doctor at least $100,000 for prescribing abortion pills (reuters.com)
A Texas state judge on Thursday ordered a New York doctor to pay a penalty of at least $100,000 and stop providing abortion pills to women in Texas, in a win for the state's Republican attorney general, Ken Paxton.
Disney Sued Over Stricter Criteria For Disability Passes (disabilityscoop.com)
A class-action lawsuit accuses Disney of discriminating against people with disabilities after the company made major changes to the way it provides accommodations at its theme parks.
Racism + Ableism: How do you fight it? (youtube.com)
Dive into the powerful intersection of racism and ableism with our educational video, "Racism + Ableism: How do you fight it?" In this eye-opening exploration, we define racism and ableism, shedding light on how these intersecting forms of discrimination impact individuals and communities. From systemic barriers to everyday microaggressions, we uncover the shared experiences of those marginalized by both racism and ableism. But we don't stop there. We arm you with actionable tips and strategies to combat these injustices, empowering you to be a catalyst for change in your communities.
Mental Health Storytelling Initiative (annenberg.usc.edu)
DJ Nash, creator and showrunner of ‘A Million Little Things,’ Ashley N. Kolaya, director of the Mental Health Storytelling Initiative, entertainment consultant Dr. Barbara Van Dahlen, MTV
Much More Than That (karina-sturm.com)
Much More Than That is a 15-minute short film that delves into the lives of the Pollock family, who share deep connections that transcend their heritage. Jack and his mother Maria both live with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a rare and challenging condition, and are also neurodivergent. As members of the LGBTQ community, Jack and Maria navigate the complexities of life at the intersection of disability and gender identity. This poignant film also reveals how Maria and Jack continuously support each other in finding their identities. Through resilience and love, the Pollocks redefine what it means to thrive amidst adversity.
At least 22 children and two adults infected in Texas measles outbreak (washingtonpost.com)
Nine of those infected were hospitalized and more cases are likely, health authorities said. U.S. vaccination rates for measles are falling, according to the CDC.
Louisiana Department of Health ends mass vaccinations, bans seasonal vaccine promotion (nola.com)
Louisiana Surgeon General Ralph Abraham sent a directive to state health workers Thursday ending long-standing mass vaccination clinics and banning staff from promoting seasonal vaccines.
Colorado Department of Corrections reaches settlement to accommodate deaf and hard-of-hearing inmates (denver7.com)
Disability rights advocates and the Colorado Department of Corrections reached a new settlement to accommodate deaf and hard-of-hearing inmates last month.
Opinion | Linda McMahon and RFK Jr. could be a one-two punch for disabled students (msnbc.com)
The Education Department is an irreplaceable lifeline for students with disabilities.
DR Congo displacement, health crisis worsens amid dwindling aid access (news.un.org)
A dire displacement crisis is escalating in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo as M23 rebels make headway while aid routes are cut off, UN humanitarians warned on Friday.
Meaningful Participation of Marginalized and Underrepresented Persons with Disabilities (ds-int.org)
We thank the Global Disability Fund for working with us, Inclusion International, and other organisations of persons with disabilities on this important guidance note.
West Texas measles outbreak doubles to 48 cases (edition.cnn.com)
The measles outbreak first reported in Gaines County, Texas, has doubled to 48 cases in the last four days, the Texas Department of State Health Services said in a statement Friday.
Advocacy & Action Center - National Council on Independent Living (ncil.org)
Find my AG - National Association of Attorneys General (naag.org)
All 50 U.S. states, D.C., and the U.S. territories have an attorney general who serves as the chief legal officer in their jurisdiction. Find your AG.
CDC losing tenth of workforce in purge of federal employees (cbsnews.com)
CBS News has learned the mass firings ordered by President Trump across the federal government have now reached the Centers for Disease Control. CBS News medical contributor Dr. Celine Gounder has more.
Illegal restraints used in Central Bucks special education classroom, state finds (eu.phillyburbs.com)
Pennsylvania Department of Education investigators found that students were illegally restrained and denied water in a Jamison Elementary classroom.
What to know about sleeping pills and dementia (washingtonpost.com)
Are concerns about sleeping pills being linked to dementia based on evidence? Many people need help getting to, or staying, asleep and turn to pills, but there are downsides.
Special Olympics Messages of Encouragement (cheer4usa.specialolympics.org)
Five Years at Action Duchenne (actionduchenne.org)
This month marks five years since I joined the team at Action Duchenne, and it has been an incredible journey. From both an organisational and community perspective, these years have been filled with challenges, achievements, new experiences, and continuous learning, all driven by our mission. While much has changed, our unwavering commitment to supporting the Duchenne community and striving for a future where lives are no longer limited by Duchenne remains as strong as ever.
Legalising assisted suicide would take us into ‘tiger country’, MP warns (disabilitynewsservice.com)
A Liberal Democrat MP has warned that a bill that aims to legalise assisted suicide would take England and Wales into “tiger country” and let “tigers out into the wild”.
Urgent CDC Data and Analyses on Influenza and Bird Flu Go Missing as Outbreaks Escalate (kffhealthnews.org)
Delays in urgent CDC analyses of seasonal flu and bird flu, and the agency’s silence, will harm Americans as outbreaks escalate, doctors and public health experts warn.
In some states, gender dysphoria is a protected disability — and momentum could be growing (19thnews.org)
Lawyers and advocates have worked to secure legal acknowledgement of transgender people within the Americans with Disabilities Act for decades.
More than a competition: Deaf students from across the country converge at CSDB Academic Bowl (gazette.com)
Deaf students from all over the region convened Friday at the Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind to compete in the first rounds of the annual Academic Bowl regionals, connecting along the way.
Section 504 potentially under threat due to lawsuit from 17 Republican attorneys general (dailymoth.com)
There is a lot of news and buzz surrounding Section 504 and a lawsuit from 17 Republican-leaning states. I will try my best to cover what’s going on.
US targets diversity, equity, inclusion at United Nations (reuters.com)
The United States has warned U.N. organizations UNICEF and UN Women against any focus on diversity, equity, inclusion and gender ideology as a U.N. food official sought to avoid Washington's ire by advising some staff to tone down language.
Since taking office, President Trump has taken several actions attacking diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (often called “DEIA” or “DEI”) in the federal government. This resource provides an overview of what DEIA is, why DEIA efforts are essential for disabled Americans, and how diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility efforts have been affected by these recent Presidential actions, including Executive Orders and guidance related to them.
A 2nd U.S. judge pauses Trump's order against gender-affirming care for trans youth (npr.org)
A second federal judge paused President Trump's executive order halting federal support for gender-affirming care for transgender youth under 19.
Sharing An Action Alert from NCIL on Section 504 (mailchi.mp)
We are sharing information and actionable steps from the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) about the need to protection Section 504.
It’s our 45th Anniversary! (myemail.constantcontact.com)
Email from Access Living Disability Power, Progress and Pride: Access Living at 45 Disability Power, Progress and Pride: Access Living at 45 The year is 1980.
NYS Nationwide Recruitment Open To Youth With Disabilities (signstv.co.ke)
Youth with disabilities are invited to engage in the current nationwide recruiting campaign for the National Youth Service (NYS).
Audiologists raise concern over headphone use in young people (bbc.com)
More young people are presenting to audiology teams in England with difficulty processing sound.
Gaelynn Lea | Disability Daily Podcast (disabilitydaily.podbean.com)
Today we wish a happy birthday to Gaelynn Lea, American folk musician and disability advocate with osteogenesis imperfecta born January 21, 1984.
Trump Establishes Commission Targeting Autism, Other Conditions (disabilityscoop.com)
President Donald Trump is tapping newly confirmed U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead a commission charged with addressing autism and other "health burdens."
Social Security head leaves as Musk-led DOGE seeks Americans’ data (19thnews.org)
Acting Social Security Commissioner Michelle King left as Elon Musk’s DOGE sought access to a database with information about anyone with a Social Security number.
Maryland Dept. of Health says universal masking should start up again in medical facilities (wypr.org)
Many medical systems still have not updated their policies as respiratory illnesses rise.
B.C. library first to have braille printer available for public use (langleyadvancetimes.com)
'This type of access to a braille embosser has not been done before, at least in Western Canada, in a library'
'D Word' Billboards Aim To Get People Talking About Disabilities (disabilityscoop.com)
A series of 14-by-48-foot billboards with a gigantic "#DWord" as the dominant visual are part of a campaign to let people know that "disability is not a bad word."
Top 15 Scholarships for Students with a Disabled Parent in February 2025 (scholarships360.org)
Students with a disabled parent go through a unique set of hardships that can make affording college difficult. Luckily, there are a large number of scholarships available specifically to help those with disabled parents fulfill their college dreams. Remember, although other types of college aid are available, scholarships never need repayment!
San Diego County records fourth teen flu death (sandiegouniontribune.com)
Total exceeds COVID-19 pandemic’s teen death toll
Teacher Allegedly Fired For Refusing To Alter Special Ed Test Scores (disabilityscoop.com)
The former teacher claims in legal filings that she was pressured to alter test scores to make fewer students eligible for special education and her refusal led to her dismissal.
St Albans woman who aided accessibility on Wicked 'honoured' (bbc.com)
Chantelle Nassari says creating inclusive spaces is so important.
Pain Clinics Made Millions From ‘Unnecessary’ Injections Into ‘Human Pin Cushions’ (kffhealthnews.org)
Pain MD, which once ran as many as 20 clinics across three states, gave chronic-pain patients about 700,000 total injections near their spines, according to court documents. Last year, federal prosecutors proved at trial that the shots were medically unnecessary and part of an extensive fraud scheme.
A pediatrician warns of 'long-lasting' consequences of RFK Jr. leading HHS (npr.org)
Adam Ratner predicts the appointment of anti-vaccine activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will impact vaccine availability and hesitancy: "It is much easier to scare people than to unscare them," he says.
‘Disposable Humanity’ – New Film Unmasks Horror Of Nazi Euthanasia (forbes.com)
Disposable Humanity recounts the untold story of the systematic extermination of thousands of disabled people at the hands of the Nazis.
The Braille Institute Launches New Font For E-readers (goodereader.com)
The Braille Institute has just launched their Atkinson Hyperlegible Next, now with enhanced characters, upgraded with seven weights, and a bonus variable version for all you professional hyperlegible-ites out there. It has improved legibility and readability for individuals with low vision.
As States Mull Medicaid Work Requirements, Two With Experience Scale Back (kffhealthnews.org)
As Republicans consider adding work requirements to Medicaid, Georgia and Arkansas — two states with experience running such programs — want to scale back the key parts supporters have argued encourage employment and personal responsibility.
Tell Congress: No Cuts to Medicaid (secure.everyaction.com)
The House Budget plans to slash Medicaid in order to offset tax cuts for the rich – and they're moving quickly.
5 Calls (5calls.org)
Spend 5 minutes. Make 5 calls. Make your voice heard.
Autistic women face barriers to safe and supportive maternity care – new research (theconversation.com)
Autistic women report feeling unheard, misunderstood and even unsafe during pregnancy and childbirth, according to new research.
UN environment agency calls for urgent action on ‘triple planetary crisis’ (news.un.org)
The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) called on Tuesday for urgent action to combat climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, warning that progress on all fronts remains slow and uneven.
Moving to a neurodiversity-affirming paradigm in the support system: Autistic professionals As paradigm change (journals.sagepub.com)
The purpose of support provided to autistic people in the United States has been to normalize their behavior and communication. Due to serious risks of normaliz...
United States influenza: biggest season in 15 years of data (virologydownunder.com)
The United States has been suffering from many influenza virus infections. And it looks like those are translating into a “flunami” of hospitalisations, which has resulted in the US CDC classifying the 2024-2025 flu season as the highest severity season since 2017-2018, with flu hospitalisation rates at their highest in at least 15 years.
Trump administration firings hit key office handling bird flu response (politico.com)
The layoffs in USDA's National Animal Health Laboratory Network program office come as egg prices reach record highs amid worsening outbreak.
Trump Firings Impact ‘Front Line of Surveillance’ for Bird Flu Outbreak (rollingstone.com)
The Trump administration has fired 25 percent of the employees in a small federal office that coordinates bird flu testing across the country.
Government of Canada purchases avian influenza vaccine to protect individuals most at risk (canada.ca)
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and its partners are focused on keeping people and animals in Canada safe and ensuring Canada is ready for any potential health threats. This includes taking proactive measures to protect the health of people in Canada by authorizing and securing the supply of a human vaccine against avian influenza as part of our readiness and potential use, as needed, based on risk conditions.
Deaf character joining Las Vegas Strip musical (reviewjournal.com)
Liz Tannebaum is guest-starring in “Menopause the Musical” for two shows in March.
A military vet and a scientist were securing America's food system. Trump fired them (npr.org)
More than 10,000 federal employees who had yet to complete their probationary periods have been fired by the Trump administration, including those who work to protect American agriculture.
It’s women who will pay the price for assisted dying (telegraph.co.uk)
Throughout history women have borne the brunt of failed healthcare policies, from lobotomy to euthanasia
ABLE Account Education and Advocacy Toolkit (ndss.org)
Human Rights Organization for Individuals with Down syndrome
Trump administration killed a research program for disabled students (independent.co.uk)
The Department of Education had awarded a grant to survey to research how to help students with disabilities transition to adulthood. Eric Garcia reports how the program was then stopped
Yuan Yi Zhu: MAiD's decade of expansion shows how Canada's slippery slope was actually a cliff (nationalpost.com)
The guardrails restraining state-assisted death have flown off, despite the Supreme Court of Canada's promises otherwise
For families with sick kids, the rise of vaccine hesitancy could be life-threatening (19thnews.org)
Some parents are concerned about the recent confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has a history of anti-vaccine views, to oversee the nation’s health department.
Action Alert: Stop Assisted Suicide in Illinois; Governor issues budget proposal (accessliving.org)
Today, we’d like to share a short update about the new Illinois state budget proposal, and an urgent action alert for TODAY on assisted suicide.
The Audrey and Jeremy Show (theaudreyandjeremyshow.com)
We’re 2 adults with Down syndrome having conversations with world-changers: Entrepreneurs, artists, and creators pursuing their dreams—just like us 💙💛
Trump disbands health equity panel examining Medicare and Medicaid (19thnews.org)
The health equity committee aimed to reduce barriers that people of color, LGBTQ+ people and rural Americans encounter with government health care programs.
BBC Revenge Thriller Series ‘Reunion,’ Set in the Deaf Community, Gets First-Look Pictures (hollywoodreporter.com)
"My character Brennan is on a wildly different journey," says star Matthew Gurney about the upcoming four-part series that also features Lara Peake, Anne-Marie Duff, Eddie Marsan and Rose Ayling-Ellis.
Venezuela's deaf community advocates for better visibility (uk.news.yahoo.com)
Venezeula's deaf community advocates for more inclusion and understanding by promoting sign language:: Caracas, Venezuela:: February 15, 2025:: Bryan Mejias, Sign language interpreter"In Venezuela, we need the Venezuelan sign language to be more visible throughout the country. It is our language, and we have the right to speak in our mother tongue. Sign language is not a complex language, it is very gestural, and very visual as well. If sign language is taught within families, even if it is only a simple greeting, this will make deaf people want to teach hearing people their culture and language.”:: Cira Moran, Deputy President, Association of Deaf People of Venezuela“I’m not an expert in education for deaf children but what I’ve seen is that many of the children, when they finish school, don’t have spaces at universities. Then, they come to the association of deaf people. This makes me sad because it’s a weakness and reality we can’t hide in our country.”In Venezuela, at least 5% of the 28 million people in the country are deaf. Article 81 of the 1991 constitution sets forth the right of deaf and mute people to communicate in sign language. But nowadays, this is far from being a reality.The deputy president of the Association of Deaf People of Venezuela, Cira Moran, told Reuters that many students end school with no chances to attend university as there are no teachers able to communicate in their language.The association doesn’t charge students for the classes as it is financed with donations and has agreements with private companies, it told Reuters.
The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) and the American Printing House for the Blind (APH) are pleased to announce a special livestream event on Monday, March 17 to unveil a 90-year-old audio recording of Helen Keller.
Easterseals Disability Film Challenge Awards & Prizes (disabilityfilmchallenge.com)
The EDFC Adobe Filmmaker Grant Program is an exciting opportunity for EDFC alumni to expand their EDFC short films into larger formats. This program aims to support and empower disabled filmmakers in their creative endeavors.
Hospital admissions for flu in children ages 5-17 up 145% since Jan. 4, AAP analysis shows (publications.aap.org)
Pediatric influenza cases across the country have been climbing since the beginning of the year, and the CDC expects emergency department visits to remain high and possibly increase in some states.
Aging and Down Syndrome: A Health & Well-Being Guidebook (adscresources.advocatehealth.com)
Find information about the aging process for people with Down syndrome provided by the National Down Syndrome Society.
Blind B.C. woman combines tenacity with technology to realize musical dream (vancouverisland.ctvnews.ca)
Before we see where the woman with a white cane is going, Justine Wack hears where she’s headed, by listening to her clicking.
A Review of All the Noise at Once: Being Young, Autistic, and Black (thinkingautismguide.com)
All the Noise at Once tackles so many issues with such care and thought, including racism, classism, and class segregation.
Texas Measles Outbreak Nears 100 Cases, Raising Concerns About Undetected Spread (kffhealthnews.org)
Health officials expect a measles outbreak in West Texas to exceed 100 cases because of low vaccination rates and undetected infections. Vaccine misinformation and new laws may make such situations more common and harder to contain.
NIH cuts could affect hundreds of medical studies at the Mayo Clinic and University of Minnesota (minnesotareformer.com)
Minnesota and 21 other states have sued the National Institutes of Health over the Trump administration’s steep cuts to grants that fund medical research in the United States.
Chinese researchers find bat virus enters human cells via same pathway as COVID (reuters.com)
A newly discovered bat coronavirus uses the same cell-surface protein to gain entry into human cells as the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19, raising the possibility that it could someday spread to humans, Chinese researchers have reported.
Stanford must end its complicity in COVID harms (stanforddaily.com)
A Stanford conference of COVID contrarians and Long COVID skeptics featuring President Levin is reverberating all the way to the White House.
Pandemic Policy: Planning the Future, Assessing the Past (healthpolicy.fsi.stanford.edu)
Bringing together esteemed academics, public health practitioners, journalists, and policymakers from all sides of the COVID-19 policy debate in conversation with one another with an eye toward reforms in science and public health to better serve the public.
Combined impact of different aspects of pandemic on disabled people ‘felt relentless’, Covid inquiry hears (disabilitynewsservice.com)
The impact of vaccine decisions, “do not attempt resuscitation” notices, school closures, cuts to care, and other aspects of the pandemic, had a combined effect on disabled people that “felt relentless”, three disabled people’s organisations have told the Covid inquiry.
Medicaid in the Crosshairs, Maybe (kffhealthnews.org)
President Donald Trump has said he won’t support major cuts to the Medicaid health insurance program for people with low incomes, but he has endorsed a House budget plan that calls for major cuts, leaving the program’s future in doubt. Meanwhile, thousands of workers at the Department of Health and Human Services were fired over the holiday weekend, from the National Institutes of Health, the FDA, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with possibly more cuts to come.Alice Miranda Ollstein of Politico, Joanne Kenen of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Politico Magazine, and Sarah Karlin-Smith of the Pink Sheet join KFF Health News’ Julie Rovner to discuss these stories and more.
Judge largely blocks Trump's executive orders ending federal support for DEI programs (npr.org)
A U.S. district judge granted a preliminary injunction blocking the administration from terminating or changing federal contracts they consider equity-related.
Campaigners call for action to address shortage of wheelchair-accessible taxis (disabilitynewsservice.com)
A drastic and discriminatory shortage of wheelchair-accessible taxis is causing disabled people to miss medical and dental appointments, education and work commitments, and social opportunities, disabled campaigners have warned.
Trump administration plans mass firing at office that funds homelessness programs (npr.org)
Staffing at the HUD office that pays for housing and support services across the country is slated to be cut by 84%. Advocates warn such heavy cuts could make record-high homelessness even worse.
OVERWHELMED: Exploring possible solutions to challenges faced by Arizona State Hospital patients (kjzz.org)
In part four of the OVERWLEHMED series, explore potential solutions to the challenges faced by patients at the Arizona State Hospital — including those with autism.
Why Texas measles outbreak may be ‘the tip of a bigger iceberg’ (dallasnews.com)
Texas' measles outbreak is now at 90 cases, the highest yearly case count since 1992. Experts say the number is likely to grow more. Here's why.
The 16-year-old whose right to a BSL interpreter was recognised by a Scottish tribunal
2/12/25 - Trump Stuff: RFK, Education, and USAID (disability-thinking-weekday.ghost.io)
Call your Senators to #StopRFK now! Autistic Self Advocacy Network - February 4, 2025 "RFK Jr. is a horrible choice for this role for many reasons. He makes false claims related to autism and vaccines. He is the founder of a prominent anti-vaccination non-profit. RFK Jr. has also promoted bunk “cures” for autism that have real health risks for the people involved." Of all the controversial, (terrible!), U.S. Cabinet nominations President Trump has put forward, RFK Jr. for Secretary of the Dep
1 Month to go! Nominations for The National Diversity Awards open 12th March 2025 - Able Magazine (ablemagazine.co.uk)
The National Diversity Awards will be held once again at the breathtaking Liverpool Anglican Cathedral on September 19th 2025. We are thrilled to re-open nominations for this year on 12th March. Br…
Thomas Pocklington Trust and Guide Dogs Expands Student Support Services to Include Younger Age Group - Thomas Pocklington Trust (pocklington.org.uk)
Sight loss charities, Guide Dogs and Thomas Pocklington Trust (TPT) are working together to deliver, advice and guidance to blind and partially sighted students, their families and carers and any professionals that support them. The two charities have partnered to expand TPT’s Student Support Service, to include children from the age of seven years.
Integrating special education students is necessary for equitable education - EALA (educatingalllearners.org)
This article was written and Published by Niveda Hari and Suhana Mahabal — February 2nd, 2024
Launching Light Maps: The Next Chapter – Dr Will Renel | Touretteshero (touretteshero.com)
Back in October 2023 I wrote about relaxed performance practice and the importance of developing tools and approaches that support audiences to access art, theatre and live performance. This is particularly relevant to how we communicate the sensory elements of shows – sound, and lighting, etc. We'r
2/11/25 - U.S. employment, French housing, and checking in on flu and COVID (disability-thinking-weekday.ghost.io)
nTIDE February 2025 Jobs Report: Labor Force Participation Rate for People with Disabilities Hits an All-Time High Center for Research on Disability, University of New Hampshire - February 7, 2025 "Based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Jobs Report released today, the labor force participation rate for people with disabilities (ages 16-64) increased from 41.3 percent in December 2024 to 42.0 percent in January 2025 (up 1.7 percent or 0.7 percentage points). For people wit
From Ideas to Action: How the EALA Community of Action is Driving Real Change - EALA (educatingalllearners.org)
This article was written and published by Aurora Dreger — February 10th, 2024
After Health Scare, Woman Decides to Only Date Firefighters - The Squeaky Wheel (thesqueakywheel.org)
HOUSTON — Many people claim to have a “type,” but this Houston woman’s dating preferences are all based around one thing: free healthcare. Living alone with functional neurological disorder, 26-year-old Destiny Flores spends a non-negligible amount of time wrestling with insurance and creating contingency plans in case of any medical emergencies. After one particularly bad […]
The Added Complexity of Having a Wiggly Body | Touretteshero (touretteshero.com)
Content warning: Descriptions of medical procedures and internal anatomy Today is Valentine’s Day so it seems appropriate to give you an update on the state of my heart. At the end of last month I wrote about some new and unexpected changes to my health that I’ve been experiencing recently. Since
Existing, Not Living: My Fight For An Accessible Home | Crip Life™ (criplife.co.uk)
Sepsis survivor and quadruple amputee Kim Smith is on a council waiting list for a wheelchair accessible home in Milton Keynes, ‘making do’ in a home that is not suitable for her needs.
Interview: we speak to disability activist and blogger Chloe Tear (disabilityhorizons.com)
We hear from disability blogger and activist Chloe Tear, who has cerebral palsy. She wrote for us back in 2017, but has since been voted into the Show Trust's Power 100 list, recognising her as an influential disability blogger.
Top dating, relationship and sex tips for wheelchair users (disabilityhorizons.com)
Take a look at our top dating, relationship and sex tips for wheelchair users. Whether you have upper-body strength, or are paralysed from the waist down, our tips will help you to find the right partner and enjoy sex.
Level the Playing Field with Feedback, and Other Actions for Allies | by Better Allies® | Feb, 2025 | Code Like A Girl (code.likeagirl.io)
This quote comes from an op-ed by Vernā Myers and Joan C. Williams. They wrote about their research on workplace meritocracy and creating cultures where many kinds of people can thrive. To level the…
Disability Health Strategy released - Disability Insider (disabilityinsider.com)
The Tasmanian Government has released the Disability Health Strategy, which will play a critical role in ensuring that people with disability in Tasmania have access to high-quality, inclusive public health services.
Disability workforce crisis prompts calls for federal action on pay - Disability Insider (disabilityinsider.com)
The Health Services Union has launched a push for disability workers to receive a desperately needed pay rise, with the sector facing a major workforce crisis.
WHO releases TB, Diabetes Comorbidity handbook - Disability Insider (disabilityinsider.com)
The World Health Organization (WHO) has released operational guidance on addressing tuberculosis (TB) and diabetes. The operational handbook aims to facilitate comprehensive and people-centred care for people with TB and diabetes.
Disability and travel: photographs and memories | Disability Horizons (disabilityhorizons.com)
If you have a disability, travelling is rarely straight forward. So that’s why we’ve teamed up with Carrie-Ann Lightley from Tourism for All, to bring you a series of articles to help make travelling
Overcoming social barriers for disABLED people and promoting inclusion (disabilityhorizons.com)
Our new Partnerships and Advertising Manager Joanna, who is an inclusion champion, tells us why inclusion is so important.
Climate change: why disabled people need to be considered (disabilityhorizons.com)
Climate change is a global problem affecting us all. But it seems that disabled people are being left out. Find out why disabled people need to be part of the discussions around tackling climate change,
Meet the Wheelchair User Solving Accessible Parking Abuse - New Mobility (newmobility.com)
After 15 years of collecting data and working to improve the accessible parking system, Mack Marsh is confident he has the solution to end accessible parking…
All Aboard the Feelings Express and The Confidence Code: A Little Book About Courage”- Kids books on confidence and feelings by Ashley Ellis-Smith - Carly Findlay (carlyfindlay.com.au)
One of my friends and colleagues, Ashley Ellis-Smith, is a social worker, as well as a writer and illustrator. She’s also neurodivergent, and specialises in working with neurodivergent children. She has just written and illustrated two kids books while on maternity leave - superwoman! The books are about exploring feelings and developing confidence, suitable for
Please don’t ask me to work for free – the 2025 edition - Carly Findlay (carlyfindlay.com.au)
Your annual reminder: Please don’t ask me to work for free. It’s 13 February and I’ve had several requests to work for free already. It’s incredibly offensive to ask disabled women of colour to perform free labour. (I’m not just talking about me here.) I value my knowledge, skills, education, lived experience and my community
How to Live a More Fulfilling Life and Find Purpose – URevolution (urevolution.com)
Discover practical strategies to live a more fulfilling life and find purpose. Embrace authenticity, accountability, and health to create a meaningful, joyful life.
'At Least I Don't Leech Off the Government!' Says Man Who Leeches Off His Dad's Employees - The Squeaky Wheel (thesqueakywheel.org)
Local nepo baby James Marshall Jr. is poised to take over his father’s vast engineering firm upon his impending retirement. However, Marshall, in ironic yet common fashion, criticized local disabled woman Sabrina Johnson for being unable to hold down a job. Johnson, facing eviction, turned to GoFundMe to make her rent payments on time, since […]
#420 Intimacy 2.0: Love and Dating in the Future — Shameless Sex (shamelesssex.com)
Join Nico Vellotta, Head of Relationship Science at Arya, as we explore how AI is transforming intimacy and enhancing communication in relationships. Discover tips for tackling awkward conversations, insights on millennial trends, and ways to strengthen your connection. Tune in for a fun, enlighteni
Labour to ‘fix benefit system to get people back into work’ | Welfare | The Guardian (theguardian.com)
Pledge to fix broken welfare system follows new evidence that people are worried about returning to work for fear that benefits will be withdrawn
Elon Musk put a chip in this paralysed man’s brain. Now he can move things with his mind. Should we be amazed - or terrified? | Neuroscience | The Guardian (theguardian.com)
An accident left Noland Arbaugh paralysed, but Musk’s Neuralink brain implant allows him to control computers with his thoughts. Is it a life-changing innovation that could help millions – or the start of a dystopia where a billionaire can access our thoughts?
Blue Badge Access Awards - Launch 23rd Oct, 2024/25 Edition, Has a theme of Intersectionality For Disabled People | Blue Badge Style (bluebadgestyle.com)
The Blue Badge Access Awards (BBAAs) launched on weds 23rd Oct at Gaucho Piccadilly which reward exceptional accessibility and inclusivity shown by venues in the hospitality, leisure, and tourism industry. The 12 awards will be presented 1st May 2025, ranging from Best Bar and Best Historic Building and Best Conceptual Design. The Ludicrous Loo Award returns, and the theme will be ‘Intersectionality’ highlighted by the inclusion of a new award – Best Access at LGBTQ+ Venue. %
2/17/25 - Trump Stuff: 504 and Accessibility, plus questionable ideas (disability-thinking-weekday.ghost.io)
Texas v. Becerra: What it is and How You Can Help Stop the Attack on Section 504 Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund - February 12, 2025 "17 states sued the United States government. They asked the court to get rid of Section 504. The states disagree with a few things in the updated Section 504 rules. But the lawsuit asks the court to get rid of all the updated rules – and to get rid of Section 504 itself, not just the rules they disagree with. The lawsuit says that Section 504 goes a
From “I Was” To “I Am”: Embracing Joy And Purpose With Chronic Illnesses | Crip Life™ (criplife.co.uk)
CJ Janzen is a singer/songwriter and speaker, who lives with multiple chronic illnesses. She shares an inspiring journey of resilience, transformation and purpose.
Funding to support caregivers raising kids with disabilities - Disability Insider (disabilityinsider.com)
An extra $5 million in funding has been allocated to the ACU-led ENVISAGE (Enabling Visions and Growing Expectations) program under the National Early Childhood Program (NECP).
Rates of ADHD remain high in adults with autism - Disability Insider (disabilityinsider.com)
In a large study of more than 3.5 million adults, researchers from Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Drexel University and George Washington University (GWU)found that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was highly elevated among adults diagnosed with autism. Additionally, co-occurring ADHD was associated with worse health outcomes, though patients who received medications for ADHD had better outcomes. The findings were published by the journal JAMA Network Open.
Critical Voice in Design Theory and Aesthetic Education: In Memory of Gert Selle (1933–2025) — designforschung.org (designforschung.org)
in memory of gert selle, one of the great german-speaking voices and thinkers of design theory and history.
How to Support an Elderly Relative’s Health & Independence | URevolution (urevolution.com)
Discover practical ways to support an elderly relative’s health & independence. Learn how to keep them safe, active, and engaged while respecting their autonomy.
My thoughts on Apple Cider Vinegar – Netflix - Carly Findlay (carlyfindlay.com.au)
I’ve been watching Apple Cider Vinegar - the Netflix series based on Belle Gibson’s life. It’s billed as a true story based on a lie”. The series comes off the back of the book investigating Belle Gibson - The Woman who Fooled the World by two Age Journalists - Beau Donnelly and Nick Toscano. (They talk
Removing barriers to inclusion for persons with disabilities - Disability Insider (disabilityinsider.com)
The Albanese Labor Government is building safe and inclusive communities for people with disabilities in its initial response to the Disability Royal Commission.
Section 504 is Under Attack - New Mobility (newmobility.com)
Photo by Anthony Tusler Seventeen states are suing the United States government to repeal Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
Intimacy & Disability — KAM REDLAWSK (kamredlawsk.com)
2/14/25 - Friday Video Share (disability-thinking-weekday.ghost.io)
"Pro Infirmis «Because who is perfect?»" YouTube, Pro Infirmis - December 3, 2013 I was sick yesterday, which is why there wasn't a Thursday newsletter. And I'm still not feeling great. So instead of sharing a more timely video, I'm posting a video I've shared more than once already, in this newsletter and the long-time blog that came before it. It's one of my favorite disability-themed videos. I had tears in my eyes the first time I saw it. It still moves me. I hope that in a time when disabl
Ejaculation: Still a Top Priority for Men with SCI - New Mobility (newmobility.com)
As a quad and a sexuality researcher and educator, Mitch Tepper has devoted over 35 years to teaching health professionals and people with disabilities what…
Making Babies: Vibrostimulation and Insemination - New Mobility (newmobility.com)
EDITOR: In the January 1997 issue of New Mobility, Mitch Tepper described the joy that his wife, Cheryl, and he shared in conceiving their son, Jeremy.
AXSChat with Katrin Langensiepen, Member of the European Parliament (MEP), Greens/EFA Group (Germany) - AXSChat (axschat.com)
Katrin Langensiepen is a Member of the European Parliament since 2019. As the only woman with a visible disability in the Parliament and Vice-Chair of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs she fights for a green,
8 Children's Books With Disabled Characters | Disability Horizons (disabilityhorizons.com)
Here are 8 children's books eith disabled characters that you should encourage children to read or local libraries.
What I have learnt about being in a relationship with a disability (disabilityhorizons.com)
Dating and relationships are hard, but can be more so if you have a disability. Read one disabled woman's story about what 5 things she has learnt from being in a loving relationship, and how they could help you.
Insights: AI and Accessibility - EALA (educatingalllearners.org)
This article was written and published by Fable
Meet Andrew (5 min) – Sproutflix (sproutflix.org)
Weathering the Storm: Amputee Safety in Extreme Conditions - Finding your Feet (findingyourfeet.net)
Extreme weather like heavy rain, wind, ice and snow can create mobility difficulty for anyone, but especially amputees. Here are some tips...
‘Autism is a Dire Threat to America’ says Guy Bringing Measles Back - The Squeaky Wheel (thesqueakywheel.org)
For stronger protection against discrimination! - ENIL (enil.eu)
ENIL stands with the Polish EU Presidency in opposing withdrawal of the Equal Treatment Directive proposal Many disabled citizens can tell stories of discrimination ...
Accommodation Tips for Employers from the Job Accommodation Network and Disability Belongs™ - Disability Belongs (respectability.org)
Learn about key strategies and resources to help employers navigate accommodation discussions with confidence.
Personal budgets – The case of Denmark - ENIL (enil.eu)
Meeting II of the ENIL Task Force on Independent Living When: 23rd of April 2025, 14:00 – 15:30 CET Where: Online, Zoom Personal assistance ...
Kidz to Adultz Exhibition Middle 2025 - Able Magazine (ablemagazine.co.uk)
An inclusive, vibrant space where people are supported on their journey! Register for free – www.kidzexhibitions.co.uk/kidz-middle/ Where: Exhibition Hall, Coventry Building Society Arena, Co…
Attitude Is Everything Launches New Online Live Events Access Charter | Crip Life™ (criplife.co.uk)
Attitude is Everything has launched a new interactive Live Events Access Charter to enhance accessibility in live music. Discover how venues, festivals, and artists can create inclusive experiences.
Diyarbakır revives audiobook library to support blind people in Turkey - Disability Insider (disabilityinsider.com)
Diyarbakır Metropolitan Municipality has revived an audio recording studio that had been inactive for nearly eight years, relaunching the Audiobook Library Project to support people with vision disabilities, reports Daily Sabah.
MTA launches pilot program to provide ASL interpreters for deaf riders - Disability Insider (disabilityinsider.com)
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) announced a pilot program to connect people who are Deaf or hard-of-hearing with an instant and on-demand American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter while using the transit system. Convo Access is a mobile smartphone and web-based application that allows users to scan a QR code, connect with a live interpreter and chat with an MTA employee about service changes, payment, or anything regarding their journey.
The healing power of nature - theactiveamputee (theactiveamputee.org)
John McFall makes history as the world's first astronaut with a disability in ESA decision - Disability Insider (disabilityinsider.com)
The former Paralympian and surgeon has been medically certified to undertake a long-duration mission, the European Space Agency has announced.
Why changes to assisted dying bill are cause for concern | Assisted dying | The Guardian (theguardian.com)
Letters: Readers respond to Kim Leadbeater’s proposed amendment to replace a high court judge with an expert panel to make final decisions on applications
The man with Elon Musk’s chip in his brain – podcast | Elon Musk | The Guardian (theguardian.com)
When Noland Arbaugh was left paralysed he signed up for an implant created by Musk’s Neuralink company that would allow his mind to directly interact with computers. Jenny Kleeman reports
Rollback on diversity policies ‘risks undoing decades of progress’, says Co-op | Business | The Guardian (theguardian.com)
As Donald Trump reverses discrimination initiatives in the US, Co-op says it is holding firm on DEI having seen the benefits
With a new hit film, Netflix has reduced disabled lives to feelgood fodder – and got the facts shockingly wrong | Archie Bland and Ruth Spencer | The Guardian (theguardian.com)
This story about a child with cerebral palsy is badly misleading – and a slap in the face for families like ours, says Archie Bland, editor of the Guardian’s First Edition, and Ruth Spencer, a former editor at Guardian US
Some pupils in England less likely to have special needs identified, study shows | Special educational needs | The Guardian (theguardian.com)
Research by Education Policy Institute highlights groups it says are at greater risk of missing out on Send support
Benefits system should protect, not punish, vulnerable people | Welfare | The Guardian (theguardian.com)
Letters: Labour’s focus on crackdowns and fraudsters lodges in the psyche, feeding precarity and self-doubt, says Dr Jay Watts. Plus a letter from Stephanie O’Brien
2/19/25 - Maintenance day (disability-thinking-weekday.ghost.io)
Today is going to be a maintenance day for the newsletter. I've got a bunch of behind-the-scenes tweaks I've been working on since moving here to Ghost from Substack. And since Ghost Support just sent me some answers to my questions, today's the day to work on them. This is probably also a good time to ask for suggestions on the design or content of Disability Thinking Weekday. Free and paid subscribers can offer comments below on what you'd like to see, and see differently here. Action Alert
EAA Survey: Who's ready for the European Accessibility Act? | AbilityNet (abilitynet.org.uk)
The European Accessibility Act affects any organisations selling to consumers in the EU, including UK businesses. Do you feel ready?
ENIL submits its updated shadow report on the EU to the CRPD Committee - ENIL (enil.eu)
On March 11-12, 2025, the European Union (EU) will be reviewed by the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities for the first ...
Social Research with Deaf People (SORD) | In relation to Rosemary's PhD, new journal article is now available online (free-access) through The British Journal of Social Work. (sites.manchester.ac.uk)
Social Research with Deaf People (SORD) | Article: A publication recently published is now available in the Qualitative Social Work (QSW) journal (sites.manchester.ac.uk)
Corie Mapp on winning gold and courting risk
New Project To Champion Underrepresented Voices In Climate Debate | Crip Life™ (criplife.co.uk)
NPC has announced funding for a project, which aims to bring underrepresented voices - such as disabled people – into the climate debate,
Thirty years after the Disability Discrimination Act, Disabled People Are Still Fighting for Equal Access (euansguide.com)
A blog post by disabled access charity Euan's Guide on the results of the 2024 Euan's Guide Access Survey Supported by Motabilty Scheme. The results found that thirty years after the Disability Discrimination Act, Disabled People Are Still Fighting for Equal Access.
Blind woman takes Uber to court over guide dog discrimination - Disability Insider (disabilityinsider.com)
Paula Hobley, a woman with vision disability from Victoria, has filed a Federal Court case against Uber after repeatedly being refused rides due to her guide dog. The lawsuit sheds light on ongoing issues of disability discrimination in transportation services.
Researchers to develop intelligent assistive robotics - Disability Insider (disabilityinsider.com)
For people with upper extremity disabilities — such as a stroke, multiple sclerosis or other conditions — assistive robotics can help restore their independence in performing everyday tasks like eating, grooming and grasping objects. But much like old dogs, these devices have a hard time learning new tricks.
Wheelie Out There: It ain’t pretty but it sure is beautiful: ADA accommodations like a concrete pad can be pretty cheap (wheelieoutthere.blogspot.com)
We have needed new gravel on our driveway for a couple of years now. Dry sandy soil, thick tree roots exposed by erosion, and bumps left fro...
Empowering Change: NAMED Advocates Receives $1 Million CZI Grant for Rethinking Language in Science Project (ignitebykerigray.com)
Discover how the NAMED Advocates are advancing disability and racial justice in scientific research with a $1 million grant from the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative. Explore our innovative project on creating inclusive language in rare diseases research.
#421 Top Sex Trends of 2025 with Susan Bratton - Part 1 — Shameless Sex (shamelesssex.com)
Join Shameless Sex as intimacy expert Susan Bratton reveals the top sex trends of 2025! Discover yoni massage, innovative sex tech, relationship anarchy, and more in this playful, insightful episode. Tune in for laughs and tips to enhance your pleasure and intimacy!
Teaching Kids Emotional Regulation: 5 Strategies for Your Program - Kids Included Together (kit.org)
Teach kids emotional regulation skills and help guide them through big emotions with these five simple co-regulation techniques.
2/18/25 - More Trump Stuff: DEIA and Education; marriage & benefits (disability-thinking-weekday.ghost.io)
Explaining Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA), The Trump Administration’s Recent Actions on DEIA, and the Impact on Disabled Americans American Association of People with Disabilities - February 16, 2025 "Since taking office, President Trump has taken several actions attacking diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (often called “DEIA” or “DEI”) in the federal government. AAPD has put together this resource to provide an overview of what DEIA is, why DEIA efforts ar
Don’t Erase People, and Other Actions for Allies | by Better Allies® | Feb, 2025 | Code Like A Girl (code.likeagirl.io)
Last week, the Trump administration removed references to transgender and queer people from the Stonewall National Monument website. This act, as reported by BBC News, is particularly noteworthy…
AccessAble: accessibility information for across the UK (disabilityhorizons.com)
With its Detailed Access Guides, website and app AccessAble helps you to plan days out and holidays across the UK, with accessibility information for a range of disabilities.
We speak to disabled actress and activist Diana Elizabeth Jordan (disabilityhorizons.com)
Diana Elizabeth Jordan is a disabled actress and activist. She's been working in the industry for most of her life and is keen to create change for other disabled actors, as well as change society's perception of disability.
Celebrating 5 Years of Building for Racial Justice & Disability Inclusion: We Didn’t Come This Far to Only Come This Far (ignitebykerigray.com)
Celebrating 5 years of impact, Ignite by Keri Gray is proving that racial justice and disability inclusion are more than just buzzwords—they’re a movement. In a time when DEI is under attack, we’re expanding, mobilizing, and igniting change. Read our story and join the movement.
10 awesome and funny disability-related videos on YouTube (disabilityhorizons.com)
Sit back and enjoy a good laugh this Easter weekend with this pick of 10 awesome disability-related videos found on YouTube.
Event Recap: Diversability Unplugged: Celebrating Disabled Creatives — Diversability (mydiversability.com)
On Wednesday, January 29, 2025, in partnership with Aerie Real Foundation and Growth Club, Diversability hosted Unplugged: Celebrating Disabled Creatives, a discussion that explored the intersection of disability and creativity.
Short film “Iron Lung” Tackles Powerlessness In More Ways Than One - Disability Belongs (respectability.org)
Polio. Iron lungs. These one-time commonalities from a bygone era play a central role in Director Andrew Reid’s short film, Iron Lung.
'It's Not a Disability, It's Your Superpower!' Says Stranger to Person Currently Having a Seizure - The Squeaky Wheel (thesqueakywheel.org)
AUSTIN, Texas — In a touching display of optimism, local resident Dale Bennet, 52, offered words of encouragement to a complete stranger experiencing a grand mal seizure in the frozen food aisle of HEB. “It’s not a disability,” Bennet shouted over the rhythmic thumping of the woman’s head against the linoleum. “It’s your superpower!” Bennet, […]
2/20/25 - More on diversity, YouTubers, and Disneyland access (disability-thinking-weekday.ghost.io)
Donald Trump’s Next Diversity Target: People With Disabilities Sam Gustin, Mother Jones - February 18, 2025 "The Trump administration’s assault on government policies and programs that benefit disabled people is not just a scheme hatched in the bowels of The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 anti-government boiler room—although it is that, too. It’s also the natural evolution of Trump’s long-standing prejudice against people with disabilities. Trump’s disdain for disabled people is well known
2025 Slamdance Unstoppable Highlights Disability-Inclusive Films - Disability Belongs (respectability.org)
The Slamdance Film Festival has moved from Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah, to Los Angeles to enhance accessibility for filmmakers and attendees.
New Short Film "Contours" Examines Human Connections - Disability Belongs (respectability.org)
A truly beautiful short film about two people feeling the weight of time lost and the invisible distance forming between them.
Bus Users UK welcomes pilot bus fare cap for young people in Wales • Bus Users (bususers.org)
Bus Users UK fully supports the announcement of a pilot scheme in Wales which will see single bus fares for young people aged 21 and under capped at just £1. The announcement comes as Welsh Government publishes its Final Budget of 2025/26 which will see an additional £100m of funding for public...
Radha Mehta and Her Team Explore Identity and Acceptance in New Short Film "Witness" (respectability.org)
The short film "Witness" is a tense, emotional reflection on the intersection of faith, identity, safety, and justice.
Wheelchair Travel Newsletter: The Butterfly Migration and Overheard in Charlotte (wheelchairtravel.org)
Accessible travel highlights from the Florida Museum, and a conversation that could mark a big change for disabled airline passengers.
JOIN US FOR CALVERT 2025 - A fully accessible adventure weekend! - Finding your Feet (findingyourfeet.net)
In the past couple of years the Troopers have had an absolute blast getting out of their comfort zone and […]
Call for ideas for how transport should be designed, built and operated in England • Bus Users (bususers.org)
Bus Users UK has responded to calls from the Department for Transport for ideas that will help in the development of an Integrated National Transport Strategy. In its submission, the charity emphasised the need for a cross-departmental approach to transport spanning disability, education...
5 Self-Care Tips If You Have A Disability Or Health Condition (disabilityhorizons.com)
If you have a disability or health condition, these 5 self-care tips will help you to manage those difficult days that we all struggle with.
lABLEd Podcast Takes Centre Stage: A Groundbreaking Live Session At Naidex 2025 | Crip Life™ (criplife.co.uk)
lABLEd Podcast is stepping out from behind the microphones and onto the live stage at Naidex 2025, Europe's leading disability exhibition, to discuss disability in the cinema.
Recognized in Condé Nast Traveller's "25 People Making the World More Accessible" (wheelchairtravel.org)
The popular travel publication highlighted advocates and entrepreneurs who are making travel more accessible for disabled people.
2024 Accessible Travel Year in Review: Top 10 Trips to Remember - Wheelchair Travel (wheelchairtravel.org)
Reflections on a year of accessible travel that saw this wheelchair user take 100+ flights, visit 13 countries and experience many firsts.
Airline Breaks Patron's Wheelchair, Enacts Swift Protocol of Gently Patting Shoulder, Apologizing - The Squeaky Wheel (thesqueakywheel.org)
Airline employees sprang into action today when they discovered that the airline was responsible for breaking disabled patron Heather Proctor’s wheelchair. The employees were distraught and showed immediate remorse. As a result of the mistake, the airline employees responsible for the negligence swiftly implemented the strict protocol of patting Proctor on the shoulder multiple times […]
A Hospital Experience with a Rare Chronic Illness: What Doctors Should Know – URevolution (urevolution.com)
Living with a rare chronic illness means repeated hospitalizations, medical PTSD, and the frustration of not being heard. This personal letter to physicians highlights the struggles patients face and what doctors must learn to provide compassionate care."
The Violence of Being Disabled: Living with a Visible Disability – URevolution (urevolution.com)
Living with a visible disability means carrying a weight that society often refuses to acknowledge. This personal essay explores the emotional violence of being disabled in a world unready for acceptance—one that defines individuals by what they lack rather than who they are.
Concienciación: SUPERBLOOM 2024 garantiza noches tranquilas (i-m-l-s.com)
El festival SUPERBLOOM de Múnich establece nuevos estándares en materia de seguridad para sus visitantes. Bonos gratuitos para taxis nocturnos para mujeres.
Awareness - SUPERBLOOM 2024 garantit des nuits sûres (i-m-l-s.com)
Le festival SUPERBLOOM de Munich établit de nouvelles normes en matière de sécurité pour ses visiteurs. Bons de taxi gratuits pour les femmes la nuit
Awareness - SUPERBLOOM 2024 ensures safe nights (i-m-l-s.com)
The SUPERBLOOM festival in Munich is setting new standards in terms of the safety of its visitors. Free night-time taxi vouchers for women
Pet Peeves: 50+ Common Annoyances & How to Handle Them – URevolution (urevolution.com)
What are the most common pet peeves? From loud chewing to slow walkers, discover 50+ everyday annoyances and tips on handling them without losing your cool!
The Independent Gatwick Accessibility Panel | Disability Horizons (disabilityhorizons.com)
Gatwick Airport has launched a new independent panel to help shape the airport’s accessibility strategy and improve services for disabled passengers.
Welcome to the New Wheelchair Travel Newsletter (wheelchairtravel.org)
An important update about the Wheelchair Travel website and newsletter, and details about your subscription.
New Mobility Newsletter – Feb. 21, 2025 - New Mobility (newmobility.com)
section 504 attack, air travel nightmare, good bad things, accessible parking abuse, ejaculation after SCI
Introducing Crippendales, Nation's First Disabled Striptease Show - The Squeaky Wheel (thesqueakywheel.org)
8 Additions to Autism Diagnosis Criteria in DSM-6 - The Squeaky Wheel (thesqueakywheel.org)
Historically, autism diagnostic criteria have reflected outdated and prejudiced perspectives that center white boys as the model of diagnosis. This bias has led to misdiagnoses for folks who are not white, male and three years old. Here are eight evidence-based additions to the upcoming DSM-6, promising a more nuanced and accurate understanding of autism: 8. […]
Why Self-Employment Should Be Supported (visualisetrainingandconsultancy.com)
Daniel Williams, the director of Visualise Training Consultancy - Visualise Training and Consultancy
Reasonable Adjustments: No, It’s Not Coming Out of Your Own Pocket! (visualisetrainingandconsultancy.com)
Daniel Williams, the director of Visualise Training Consultancy - Visualise Training and Consultancy
Blazing the Trail: How Blind Entrepreneurs Are Changing the Business World (visualisetrainingandconsultancy.com)
Daniel Williams, the director of Visualise Training Consultancy - Visualise Training and Consultancy
Overcoming Barriers: My Journey as a Disabled Entrepreneur (visualisetrainingandconsultancy.com)
Daniel Williams, the director of Visualise Training Consultancy - Visualise Training and Consultancy
Blindness and Sports: The Hidden Champions Who Prove Vision Isn’t Required to Win (visualisetrainingandconsultancy.com)
Daniel Williams, the director of Visualise Training Consultancy - Visualise Training and Consultancy
Berlinale 2025: Gedanken zum Age-Gap-Begehren - Filmlöwin (filmloewin.de)
Drei Spielfilme im Wettbewerb der 75. Berlinale drehen sich um Beziehungen bzw. Begehren mit deutlichem Altersunterschied.
AXSChat with Steve Tyler, Director of Assistive Technology and Digital Transformation at Leonard Cheshire - AXSChat (axschat.com)
Steve brings 30 years of experience in accessibility, assistive technology, and digital transformation. His experience includes working in such areas as improving disability access in retail, transport, finance, TV and radio, mobile telecoms, and publishing.
Mobility Scooter Users Urged For Highway Code Inclusion As Fatalities Rise | Crip Life™ (criplife.co.uk)
Campaigners are urging the UK government to add mobility scooter users to the Highway Code, highlighting alarming new data showing a near doubling of fatalities in 2023.
4 steps for Higher Education: Key insights from the UK Government Accessibility Report | AbilityNet (abilitynet.org.uk)
While the report focuses on public sector organisations broadly, its lessons are just as critical for higher education institutions.
Best Dating Apps for Social Anxiety & How to Overcome Fear – URevolution (urevolution.com)
Struggling with social anxiety? Learn how dating apps can help you connect, plus the best dating apps for social anxiety to ease your fears.
Shaping the future of disability representation in Media- Together! - ENIL (enil.eu)
The Independent (Living) Media Project, implemented by the ENIL Youth Network and funded by the EYF annual grant, needs your input! The first stage ...
5 Top tips for creating accessible eCommerce with AI | AbilityNet (abilitynet.org.uk)
Here are five practical tips our Head of Digital Inclusion, Robin Christopherson shares to help you leverage artificial Intelligence for accessible eCommerce.
Principality Stadium Launches Accessible Fan Guides In Sporting Venue First | Crip Life™ (criplife.co.uk)
Principality Stadium is setting a new standard for accessible event experiences with the launch of its Accessible Fan Guides – a first-of-its-kind resource for sporting venues that provides both comprehensive event information tailored to individual accessibility needs and a fully accessible platform.
What Is Audio Description? | 3Play Media (3playmedia.com)
What is audio description? Audio description is a narration track that describes key visual elements in videos for blind and low-vision audiences. Learn how it works and why it’s essential for accessibility.
Antisemitism now Asio’s ‘number one priority’, Burgess says – as it happened | Australia news | The Guardian (theguardian.com)
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Mind the gap for wheelchair users on the Elizabeth line | TfL | The Guardian (theguardian.com)
Letters: The tube line has many stations that cannot be independently accessed by wheelchair users, says Dr Anna Wall
What is ASSERT? - ENIL (enil.eu)
ASSERT (Large-scale Multiactor Training and Mentorship Programme to Assist People with Physical Impairments in Energy Poverty) is a European project funded under the LIFE ...
What Does ‘Break the Mold’ Mean? The DEI-Focused Deep Dive – URevolution (urevolution.com)
Discover what ‘Break the Mold’ truly means—go beyond the dictionary. Embrace DEI, disability pride, and fresh ideas that defy tradition in every way.
Beyond 6 Seconds: Neurodiversity stories from neurodivergent people: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) – with Jessica Birch (sites.libsyn.com)
Jessica Birch is a national advocate and speaker living on the South East Coast of Australia. Since her late diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) at the age of 33, she has turned her attention to awareness building and education to create a better understanding of the prevalence and consequences of prenatal alcohol exposure in Australia. Jessica shares her lived expertise in an effort to equip individuals, parents/carers, educators and health professionals with the information they need to create successful interventions and support. She believes awareness and action are key to minimizing the rate of prenatal alcohol exposure globally and works closely with organizations, stakeholders and government on alcohol policy and regulatory reform. During this episode, you will hear Jessica talk about: Her life growing up with undiagnosed FASD How she learned what FASD is and how it applies to her Her concerns about doctors being unaware and minimizing the effects of FASD How receiving the diagnosis changed her outlook on life Types of outside support that she receives for FASD To find out more about Jessica and her work, check out her website at , email her at jessicabirch.fasd at gmail dot com, and follow her on Instagram and Twitter/X at . Support or sponsor this podcast at ! *Disclaimer: The views, guidance, opinions, and thoughts expressed in Beyond 6 Seconds episodes are solely mine and/or those of my guests, and do not necessarily represent those of my employer or other organizations. These episodes are for informational purposes only and do not substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you are seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.*
A Mother’s Fight For Her Autistic Son To Access Mental Health Services | Crip Life™ (criplife.co.uk)
Trigger Warning: A mother shares the harrowing reality of caring for her autistic son, who was denied critical mental health services,
Wacken Open Air 2024: Heartfelt projects and inclusion rocking in front of the stage (i-m-l-s.com)
Metal mit Herz: Wacken Open Air Fans verschenken unvergessliche Momente. In einer bemerkenswerten Aktion spendeten Fans 30 Tickets
404 Not Found – URevolution (urevolution.com)
Why Is My Cat an Asshole? A Survival Guide – URevolution (urevolution.com)
Living with a cat who knocks things over for sport, ignores you until they want food, and yells at 3 AM? Welcome to the club. Here’s a hilarious, expert-backed guide on why your cat is an asshole—and how to survive their chaos (especially if you’re chronically ill)."
My Emotional Support Cat is a Jerk (And That’s Okay) – URevolution (urevolution.com)
Think an emotional support cat will fix your anxiety? Maybe. Maybe not. A hilarious take on how one mischievous feline helps (and frustrates) its owner while navigating depression, anxiety, and life.
Can a Conversation Change Your Life? A Mental Health Journey – URevolution (urevolution.com)
One conversation can shift your perspective, impact your mental health, and even change your life. Discover how meaningful dialogue creates transformation.
Crip Time: Living with Chronic Illness and the Loss of Time – URevolution (urevolution.com)
Chronic illness warps time, stealing days and reshaping life’s rhythm. 'Crip Time' explores how disability alters time perception and the struggle to reclaim lost moments.
Trump's Pick For Education Secretary Proposes Offloading Special Ed (disabilityscoop.com)
As President Donald Trump's nominee to lead the U.S. Department of Education moves toward confirmation, her knowledge of special education and her plans for the program are raising concerns.
U of M researchers launch vaccine trial for fighting childhood brain cancer (kaaltv.com)
A new vaccine is being tested in the battle against childhood brain cancer.
Wyoming reports its first human H5N1 avian flu infection (cidrap.umn.edu)
The infected woman, who is hospitalized, was likely exposed to H5N1 through contact with her infected backyard poultry flock.
Can Medicaid’s Popularity Shield It From the Budget Ax? (kffhealthnews.org)
Republicans in Congress have suggested big cuts to Medicaid, the state-federal health insurance program for people with low incomes or disabilities. The complex, multifaceted program touches millions of Americans and has become deeply woven into state budgets and the U.S. health care system.
MN's Medicaid system leaves residents waiting a long time for assistance (startribune.com)
MN is reworking its Medicaid system, Medical Assistance, but many people with disabilities still have long waits for assistance.
First look at Rose Ayling-Ellis in thriller about ‘man hated by deaf community’ (standard.co.uk)
Ayling-Ellis plays Anne-Marie Duff’s daughter in the new series.
One-armed basketball player makes women’s Division III history (nbcnews.com)
Baileigh Sinaman-Daniel's path to history was sparked by a painful rejection at her high school.
USAID to lay off 2,000 employees and put most remaining staff on administrative leave (edition.cnn.com)
Approximately 2,000 employees at the US Agency for International Development will be laid off Sunday and a majority of the remaining full-time staff will be put on administrative leave overnight, workers were informed in an email.
Health care advocates say House GOP's Medicaid cuts would harm children, people with disabilities (minnesotareformer.com)
In Minnesota, 650,000 children are enrolled in Medicaid, or nearly half of the total. Another 125,000 are people with disabilities.
Hospital admissions for flu in children ages 5-17 up 145% since Jan. 4, AAP analysis shows (publications.aap.org)
Pediatric influenza cases across the country have been climbing since the beginning of the year, and the CDC expects emergency department visits to remain high and possibly increase in some states.
Trump Froze Out Project 2025 in His Campaign. Now Its Blueprint Is His Health Care Playbook (kffhealthnews.org)
During his presidential campaign, Donald Trump distanced himself from the conservative governing plan after Democratic attacks. But now it’s increasingly viewed as a blueprint for his administration’s plans for federal health programs.
Untwisting Perceptions: Autism, Parenting, and Victimhood (thinkingautismguide.com)
There is a horrifyingly typical coupling of devotion with murder, whenever disabled people are the victims. A recent example is Ruby Knox, an autistic young woman, who was murdered by her mother Donella, in Blenheim, New Zealand. Donella drugged Ruby, then suffocated her. Both the reporting and the judge on the case portray Donella as a “loving mum who was driven to kill her daughter.”
What is Medicaid Home Care (HCBS)? (kff.org)
This issue brief provides an overview of what Medicaid home care (also known as “home- and community-based services” or HCBS) is, who is covered, and what services were available in 2024.
House budget draft unveiled ahead of Thursday markup (politico.com)
The blueprint allows for at least $4.5 trillion in tax cuts while slashing spending by at least $1.5 trillion over 10 years.
Policy Alert: Act Now to Protect Medicaid in the Federal Budget (gcdd.quorum.us)
Save my Medicaid
Bob Williams on “Linguistic Competence: What Does It Mean for OPWDD?” (youtube.com)
Bob Williams discusses linguistic competence in a conversation with Georgetown University National Center for Cultural Competence. The conversation was part of The New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) - National Center for Cultural Competence (NCCC) Partnership for Systems Change Core Content Professional Development Module on December 5, 2024.
Iowa joins suit over Biden gender dysphoria rule, alarming parents with disabled children (eu.desmoinesregister.com)
Parents of children with disabilities are denouncing Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird's decision to join a multi-state lawsuit against a Biden administration federal policy change, saying the move would hurt kids.
An Ice Rink To Fight Opioid Crisis: Drug-Free Fun vs. Misuse of Settlement Cash (kffhealthnews.org)
A decision about how to spend settlement funds in Carter County, Kentucky, which was hit hard by the opioid epidemic, offers a window into the choices that surround this windfall.
Airlines Push Back On Expanded Rights For Passengers With Disabilities (disabilityscoop.com)
Several major U.S. airlines are challenging a new federal rule aimed at improving travel for those with disabilities.
Overground station upgrade has been stuck on drawing board for six years (hackneygazette.co.uk)
Plans to provide step-free access at Hackney Downs Overground station are still stuck on the drawing board almost six years after being announced.
Airlines seek to overturn Biden rules for travelers with wheelchairs (washingtonpost.com)
Airlines are seeking to undo Biden administration rules that required enhanced training for workers and protection for disabled passengers’ wheelchairs and assistive devices.
United Airlines Failure Traps Wheelchair Rugby Team in Air Travel Hell (newmobility.com)
The Portland quad rugby team and members of three other teams, about 20 wheelchair users in all, were booked on a United Airlines flight from Louisville, Kentucky, to Chicago Sunday night. My teammates and I gave United hours of direct advance notice and told the gate staff we would need multiple aisle chairs and multiple staff to board. They didn’t listen.
Passenger Lifts at Stations: The Ups and Downs of Accessibility (accessiblelink.substack.com)
More lifts, more passengers but declining reliability
Review | In the age of AI, colleges need to rethink how students learn (washingtonpost.com)
Large language models are changing higher education. These authors show that that doesn’t have to be a bad thing.
Airlines look to remove consumer protections for travelers who use wheelchairs (cbsnews.com)
Trade group for American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest and United say carriers are mishandling fewer passenger wheelchairs.
Americans with disabilities warn protections are vanishing in Trump's DEI rollback (axios.com)
"Disability is a natural part of the human experience," said Katy Neas, chief executive officer of The Arc.
A portrait of inefficiency. (open.substack.com)
In appreciation of the curious, the tiny, the slow, the flexible, the winding.
Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation Unlocks New Era of Accessibility in India with Advanced Onboard Service for Visually Impaired in Mysuru - Travel And Tour World (travelandtourworld.com)
KSRTC launches a smart onboard service in Mysuru buses, empowering visually impaired passengers with audio-guided assistance for independent travel.
How to set up an accessible page structure and navigation - Pope Tech Blog (blog.pope.tech)
When coding your navigation and the overall design of your pages, there are certain HTML tags and considerations to make sure your website is accessible.
12 Easy Web Accessibility Tips to Boost Your Website’s Usability (editorialge.com)
Make your website accessible to all! Discover 12 key web accessibility tips to enhance usability, improve SEO, and reach a wider audience.
North Cave Wetlands to become more accessible (bbc.com)
Work at North Cave Wetlands will improve accessibility for people with mobility impairment.
Anderlecht leading the way on accessibility | UEFA Europa League | UEFA.com (uefa.com)
Anderlecht have reached the knockout phase play-offs of the UEFA Europa League and are also making strides off the pitch, where they offer audio commentary to blind and partially sighted fans at games.
Council approves revised accessibility strategy (signalhfx.ca)
Calera unveils website upgrades for accessibility (abc3340.com)
CALERA, Ala. — The City of Calera has rolled out a series of website enhancements aimed at boosting accessibility for all citizens, especially those with specia
Wheelchair accessible taxis consultation launches - Liverpool Express (liverpoolexpress.co.uk)
Liverpool City Council is carrying out a review of the current supply and demand for wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAV), and other adaptations or
‘Inclusion on Ice’ Makes Skating Accessible To All | News, Sports, Jobs - The Intelligencer (theintelligencer.net)
WHEELING — People of all ability levels were able to enjoy an afternoon on the ice Sunday, as the fourth-annual Inclusion on Ice event allowed skaters to glide along the Wheeling Park Ice Rink in a safe, inclusive environment. The Augusta Levy Learning Center, Easterseals Rehabilitation Center and the Wheeling Nailers once again came together […]
City of Yuma asking for public input on accessibility - KYMA (kyma.com)
The City of Yuma is asking for your opinions on how to make the area more accessible.
Accessibility Features in Parks: Survey – Bay Ward Bulletin (baywardbulletin.ca)
Comox adopts accessibility assessment and action plan - Comox Valley Record (comoxvalleyrecord.com)
The Town of Comox has adopted its first Accessibility Assessment and Action Plan, demonstrating a commitment to creating an inclusive, barrier-free community.
Venngage Launches an Accessible Alternative to Canva | CreativePro Network (creativepro.com)
A design platform empowering creators with built-in accessibility tools
Slack Enhances Accessibility Testing through Automation - InfoQ (infoq.com)
Slack recently integrated automated accessibility testing into its software development lifecycle to improve user experience for individuals with disabilities. Slack has internal standards and the com
HSIA earns recertification as Gold standard for accessibility - The Laker (thelaker.ca)
HALIFAX STANFILED: The Halifax Stanfield International Airport is being praised by an accessibility advocate for achieving Rick Hansen Foundation gold recertification standard. At an announcement on Wednesday at the airport, Halifax International Airport Authority officials announced they had attained the gold certification standard. The airport had done so before in 2019. “What you have accomplished […]
New diversity podcast in Hope helps employers support employees - Hope Standard (hopestandard.com)
Podcast discusses recent report on workplace accessibility and diversity
Auburn Working on Increasing ADA Accessibility following Audit – Finger Lakes Daily News (fingerlakesdailynews.com)
The City of Auburn is taking steps to make certain programs and services more accessible following an audit from the New York State Comptroller’s Office. […]
Town Of Comox Adopts Accessibility Assessment And Action Plan - The Raven 100.7 (theraven.fm)
The Town of Comox has adopted its first Accessibility Assessment and Action Plan, demonstrating what the Town calls a commitment to creating an inclusive, barrier-free community.
Barnes station takes railway accessibility forward in south west London (networkrailmediacentre.co.uk)
As the railway celebrates its 200th birthday, Barnes station in south west London has officially opened accessibility upgrades, setting the station up for the next 200 years.
City of Norwich audited to increase physical accessibility at city facilities (wbng.com)
The State Comptroller stated that they identified the 30 components where officials could increase physical accessibility.
Welsh theatre company launches accessibility training for Welsh events sector (nation.cymru)
A Welsh theatre company is offering a new interactive training programme, designed to improve communication and accessibility across the events sector in Wales. The programme, delivered by Hijinx, uses role-play and drama-based exercises to help events staff communicate more effectively with people with learning disabilities and autism. The ‘Beyond Words’ sessions are centred around people […]
Portugal Opens New Visa Centre in Mozambique With Improved Accessibility (schengen.news)
Starting February 10, applicants from Mozambique can now file their Schengen visa applications at a new application centre, which offers improved accessibility options, especially for applicants with disabilities. According to the local media, the location of the new visa application centre remains the same – Maputo, the capital of Mozambique but has been moved to […]
Juicebox’s Andrew Stone to join Accessibility jury for the Australian Web Awards – Campaign Brief WA (wa.campaignbrief.com)
Andrew Stone, Senior Project Manager at Juicebox, has been named as an accessibility judge for the prestigious Australian Web Awards (AWA).
Human Resources Minister Launches Digital Products, Services to Enhance Accessibility (spa.gov.sa)
Riyadh, February 09, 2025, SPA -- Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Ahmed Al-Rajhi today launched a range of digital products and services at the fourth edition of the LEAP 2025 conference, the largest technology event, to accelerate digital transformation within the ministry and improve service quality for beneficiaries. The minister stressed that these products and services align with the ministry’s digital transformation strategy, which seeks to achieve the objectives of the Saudi Vision 2030 by enhancing digital services, ensuring secure and innovative access for beneficiaries, and fostering technology and innovation in the Kingdom. The newly introduced digital products include the "Virtual Branch," the "Digital Platform for Childcare," and the "Social Development Platform," all designed to promote sustainable development. These initiatives aim to eliminate the need for in-person branch visits, encourage community participation, and expand the range of services available to individuals and government entities in the sector. --SPA 18:03 Local Time 15:03 GMT 0052
Sensory Saturdays offer safe space for neurodivergent individuals at Tryon Library (weartv.com)
PENSACOLA, Fla. -- The Tryon Library in Pensacola hosted Sensory Saturday, an initiative designed to create a welcoming environment for individuals who are neur
American Council of the Blind Launches New Accessibility and Training Services Program | Morningstar (morningstar.com)
MTA launches ASL pilot program to improve accessibility for deaf and hard-of-hearing riders (newjersey.news12.com)
By scanning a QR code, riders can use their phones to connect with an interpreter in real-time, who then facilitates conversations with MTA employees.
ABQ BioPark Becomes a Certified Autism Center™, Enhancing Accessibility for Every Visitor (einpresswire.com)
Designation is the first of its kind for Albuquerque’s cultural facilities
Media Release: Breaking Barriers: Peel District School Board’s Stay & Play Program builds inclusive spaces for neurodiverse learners - Peel Board Office Site (peelschools.org)
/PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- The National Ability Center (NAC), a leader in adaptive recreation and outdoor adventures, is proud to launch Toyota Mountain of Dreams....
On February 5, 2025, upon her swearing-in, US Attorney General Pamela Bondi issued multiple policy memoranda identifying various priorities of the Department of Justice (DOJ) under the Trump Administration. Among them is a memorandum entitled: “Ending Illegal DEI And DEIA Discrimination And Preferences” (the Memorandum). The Memorandum charts an enforcement path in connection with ExecutiveContinue Reading
Legislation on Web Accessibility in Spain (datenschutz-notizen.de)
Spain's legislation on web accessibility goes beyond the European Accessibility Act. Learn more on Spanish Accessibiliy laws.
Why State and Local Governments are Failing at Digital Accessibility (convergeaccessibility.com)
An update on the latest legal accessibility developments. Learn about the Wilkins v. Starbucks case and its impact on website accessibility.
DOJ Provides Guidance on Website… | Kelley Drye & Warren LLP (kelleydrye.com)
Although the rule doesn’t directly apply to private businesses, the resource document could serve as a helpful resource as businesses try to comply with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (or “WCAG”) and reduce their exposure to website accessibility lawsuits. Entities should identify what web content and mobile apps they provide, what specific content needs to comply with WCAG 2.1 AA, and what accessibility fixes are needed. The DOJ recommends that entities: (1) require vendors to provide information about the accessibility of their products; (2) require vendors to warrant they comply with certain technical standards and applicable accessibility laws; (3) prohibit vendors from disclaiming any accessibility warranties; (4) require vendors to provide indemnification for breach of any accessibility warranties; and (5) test the accessibility of vendor products.
Congressman Valadao Introduces Legislation to Improve Care for Disabled Veterans | U.S. Congressman David Valadao (valadao.house.gov)
Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) introduced the Veterans Accessibility Advisory Committee Act.
ADA Public Accommodation Challenges for Restaurant Industry Operators - Jackson Lewis (jacksonlewis.com)
Food establishments are committed to serving all customers fairly, including offering reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
EU Accessibility Act: get ready for 28 June 2025 | Elvinger Hoss (elvingerhoss.lu)
Digital Accessibility at CU Denver - CU Denver News (news.ucdenver.edu)
In support of CU Denver's mission to make education work for all, the university is prioritizing digital accessibility to make sure our digital materials
DOGE’s access to Education Department data raises concerns (insidehighered.com)
Elon Musk’s government efficiency office may have access to sensitive student information, raising alarms about privacy and threatening to throw the federal aid system into crisis.
Accessibility Cafe Series begins Feb. 25 | University of Delaware (udel.edu)
Registration is open for the spring 2025 digital accessibility workshop series
TLTC to Host Accessibility Workshop Series (shu.edu)
The Teaching, Learning, and Technology Center (TLTC) is excited to announce its upcoming Accessibility Week workshop series, taking place from February 24–27, 2025.
Coordinated Accessibility Strategy Renewal Draft - Accessibility Institute (carleton.ca)
Dear Members of the Carleton Community, In fall 2024, we embarked on a collaborative process to renew Carleton’s Coordinated Accessibility Strategy. This
PwD commissioner finds lack of accessibility at RUHS colleges | Jaipur News - The Times of India (timesofindia.indiatimes.com)
Jaipur: State commissioner for persons with disabilities (PwDs), Uma Shankar Sharma, lodged a suo-moto cognizance at the special court for persons wit.
‘It starts by listening’: Accessibility has a long way to go at BU – The Daily Free Press (dailyfreepress.com)
Coordinated Accessibility Strategy Renewal Draft - Current Students : Current Students (students.carleton.ca)
Tuesday, February 11, 2025 Dear Members of the Carleton Community, In fall 2024, we embarked on a collaborative process to renew Carleton’s Coordinated Accessibility Strategy. This crucial strategy has three important functions: it serves as a framework to guide our campus to be accessible and inclusive for all; a mechanism to coordinate accessibility services, programs […]
UI Web Accessibility Task Force launches new accessibility website | Iowa Now - The University of Iowa (now.uiowa.edu)
The University of Iowa’s Accessibility Task Force has launched a new website to serve as the hub for all accessibility-related resources and information. The new site, accessibility.uiowa.edu, also will provide updates about new accessibility initiatives and allow campus members to ask questions
Faculty and staff achievements roundup: Doody named to inaugural class of SUNY Accessibility Advocates and Allies Faculty Fellowship Program | News | SUNY Buffalo State University (suny.buffalostate.edu)
This is a concise series of articles aimed at informing stakeholders about the adverse consequences of ongoing efforts to dismantle (ideal-group.org)
Registration Open for Digital Equity & Inclusion Week March 3-7 : UMass Amherst (umass.edu)
Registration is now open for UMass Amherst Information Technology’s (UMass IT) fourth annual Digital Equity & Inclusion Week, “DEIW 2025: Beyond Compliance – Digital Accessibility for the Common Good,” taking place from March 3-7 online and in-person.
outreach.unh.edu/webmail/1079943/1204869684/c518cd781561503b96529a49400b98b74e0be94881d8f891c459a1ffbcc49e7c (outreach.unh.edu)
Simple Advice for a Wheelie Awesome Life (empoweredpara.com)
Accessible rating stars (netzartist.de)
We couldn't find a rating star component that fit our project's needs, so I created one.
Accessible beaches for everyone | Ocean Grove Voice (oceangrovevoice.com.au)
More beachgoers will have the chance to enjoy our beautiful beachfront with a new accessible beach wheelchair (Mobi-Chair) at Ocean [...]
The future of accessibility is personal | ArchitectureAu (architectureau.com)
Today, if you’re travelling with a family member with access needs – there’s a chance they won’t have somewhere entirely suitable to sleep tonight. "In the future, that won’t be the case," writes qualified access consultant Ryan Smith.
Did the US Government Cancel Accessibility? | A11y Quest (a11yquest.com)
We need to talk about recent executive orders and memorandums regarding accessibility.
Disability Innovation in the Workplace and Beyond — Google (about.google)
See how Google is driving disability innovation by partnering with the disability community to build accessible technology for everyone.
How I learned to code with my voice (whitep4nth3r.com)
Struggling with severe hand pain, I learned to code by voice. This is my journey with Talon and Cursorless, plus practical tips for hands-free development.
How Wirecutter Approaches Accessibility | Reviews by Wirecutter (nytimes.com)
We know we’ll never capture every need in our product recommendations. But we try to make our reviews as inclusive and useful to as many people as possible.
(26) Can AI be trusted to provide accessibility in News? | LinkedIn (linkedin.com)
Can generative AI be trusted to provide accessibility in News? The transparency conundrum Analyse any journalism industry publication from the past couple of years and you’ll be hard pushed to find any edition devoid of articles on the application of gen AI in news. News is all about trust.
Holmes Crew Builds Accessible Oasis for Injured Teacher - Make It Right® (makeitright.ca)
A tragic accident proved life-changing for Mike. This Holmes Makes It Right episode was truly special for the Holmes Crew!
Inclusive access to quality education - A priority for the Pacific (unicef.org)
Huge wait for accessible homes for disabled people in UK - YouTube (youtube.com)
Opinion: Driggs Must Prioritize Accessibility for All | Opinion | tetonvalleynews.net (tetonvalleynews.net)
Atkinson Hyperlegible Next Expands on Low Vision Accessibility – PRINT Magazine (printmag.com)
Applied Design has released Atkinson Hyperlegible Next, an expanded version of the ground-breaking typeface built for people living with low vision.
Recruiting workers with disabilities strengthens Vermont’s economy - VTDigger (vtdigger.org)
Local communities – and economies – are strongest and healthiest when all resources are recognized, valued, and utilized. Vermont has learned that over the years through the many and growing contributions of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to the competitive workforce.
(1) ‘Fruit Chaat’ tackles disability tropes with humour and wit on screen (reframingdisability.substack.com)
Tanzila Khan on the making of the web series, media recommendations and resources
The Disability & Accessibility Group at St James’s, Piccadilly | Diocese of London (london.anglican.org)
The second of three short films for Disability History Month.Chaplain of Heathrow Airport, Bruce Rickards shares his story
Inclusive Design Principles for Websites and Web Apps (Part 1) | by Nantungga Putra | Feb, 2025 | Medium (nantunggaputra.medium.com)
Inclusive design ensures that websites and web apps are accessible and usable by people of all abilities, backgrounds, and situations. By following these principles, we can create digital experiences…
A Job Interview Made Me Wonder If Mobile Apps Truly Are Inclusive | HackerNoon (hackernoon.com)
Discover simple ways to make your mobile app more inclusive and accessible for everyone.
Breaking Digital Barriers: Creating an Inclusive Internet for Everyone | UNICEF India (unicef.org)
Simple Steps to Make the Online World More Accessible and Safer for All
Developing User-Friendly Websites for People with Disabilities (Part 2) | by Nantungga Putra | Feb, 2025 | Medium (nantunggaputra.medium.com)
Continuing from part 1, here are how developers can develop user-friendly websites for people with disabilities: 6. Maintain High Contrast Ensure your text and background have a contrast ratio that's…
Driving progress in accessibility: Putting passengers at the heart of rail travel | RailBusinessDaily (news.railbusinessdaily.com)
Craig O’Beirne, Head of Accessibility, Inclusion, Support and Redress at Rail Delivery Group writes how he is confident that with continued collaboration
(1) The Accessibility of Self-Service Screens (accessiblelink.substack.com)
Improved service or even more barriers?
Why do some people think of screen readers when they think of accessibility? – Bogdan on Digital Accessibility (A11y) (cerovac.com)
People starting with accessibility can often get a bit biased perception and focus mainly on screen readers. I believe it has to do with the guidelines.
(26) The Power of Storytelling in Career Development for Individuals with Disabilities | LinkedIn (linkedin.com)
In today’s corporate world, storytelling is far more than an artful means of communication, it is a strategic tool that can redefine careers, reshape perceptions, and shift power dynamics. For individuals with disabilities, controlling the narrative is not just about visibility; it is about empowerm
Is Disability:IN quietly renaming the Disability Equality Index (DEI)? | Semantic Fish Net (semanticfish.net)
The organization appears to be in the process of renaming the tool they use to score hundreds of companies' on disability inclusion.
Council Post: From Accessibility To Authenticity: Why Your Website Is Your Brand’s Most Valuable Asset In 2025 (forbes.com)
An accessible, free resource on genetic eye disease is changing patient education (europe.ophthalmologytimes.com)
Mariya Moosajee, MBBS, BSc, PhD, FRCOphth, discusses how Gene Vision is improving patients' lives on a global scale
9NEWS - YouTube (youtube.com)
Official YouTube channel of 9NEWS in Denver, Colorado. Subscribe to NEXT On 9NEWS: http://bit.ly/2eP1GwI
Getting UX right is the key to growth | Business Post (businesspost.ie)
A better and more accessible user experience means being able to access a broader market
Universal Design in European Integration and Urban Accessibility for All (en.interfax.com.ua)
Leading the way in a groundbreaking shift towards inclusivity, European cities are redefining accessibility for people with disabilities. Guided by the principles of universal design, policymakers, urban planners and organizations are collaborating to shape environments that embrace diversity, proactively removing barriers before they emerge and ensuring equal participation in all aspects of society.
One in four disabled Londoners with access requirements live in completely inaccessible homes - AT Today - Assistive Technology (attoday.co.uk)
Inclusion London has uncovered the grim reality of inaccessible and unaffordable housing in London in its latest report.
Press Release:Press Information Bureau (pib.gov.in)
The Government of India has taken several measures to promote the cause of accessibility for Divyang
This page is for students who want to take their reading comprehension to the next level with difficult vocabulary and questions to test their inference skills.
Lack of accessible ebooks poses hurdles for persons with visual impairment - The Hindu (thehindu.com)
With the board exams round the corner, a dearth of accessible ebooks, including textbooks, has left visually impaired students in the lurch.
Trials to make voting more accessible begin | Welsh Government News (media.service.gov.wales)
The Welsh Government is working with a sight loss charity to improve the voting experience for disabled people by launching a series of accessible voting trials in Wales.
Masa changemakers: Lucas Adlerstein’s mission for accessibility - The Jerusalem Post (jpost.com)
After regaining his hearing, Lucas Adlerstein helps others with hearing loss, building a global support network.
New research explores accessibility of shared micromobility services for disabled people - THIIS Magazine (thiis.co.uk)
More than half of disabled people believe shared micromobility services such as e-scooters and e-bikes could improve their lives, however more work is needed to improve their accessibility and safety, new research from the Motability Foundation has found. The Motability Foundation commissioned the Research Institute for Disabled Consumers (RiDC) and Collaborative Mobility UK (CoMoUK) to
Movies for All: How Accessibility Is Bringing Films to Blind and Visually Impaired People - Tencent 腾讯 (tencent.com)
Tencent and the Chinese Braille Library launched Tencent Video’s Accessible Theater—an online platform that brings movies directly to people with visual impairments.
Yukon sports organizations provide accessibility options for Yukoners with disabilities - Yukon News (yukon-news.com)
Yukoners running sporting organizations offer people with disabilities opportunities to pursue sports, unlocking potential talent in the territory
Banks Slash Branches Despite Record Profits, Raising Accessibility Concerns | Be Korea-savvy (koreabizwire.com)
SEOUL, Feb. 10 (Korea Bizwire) — South Korea’s major banks are rapidly closing physical branches, citing the rise of digital banking …
Raising table heights to accessibility standards, how differently-abled lawyers navigate world of law (theprint.in)
Differently-abled lawyers in India face structural barriers—from inaccessible tech to limited opportunities in courts & law firms—but they continue to push for 'real inclusion'.
Disabled people share experience of accessible homes in London (bbc.com)
Abbi Brown said although her home has been adapted for wheelchair access, problems remain.
Thousands Join Sugamya Yatra 2025 to Advocate for Inclusive Accessibility in JK | Kashmir Despatch (kashmirdespatch.com)
behind the trip whistler - Lonely Planet (lonelyplanet.com)
Destination Editor Melissa Yeager heads to Whistler, Canada, in search of accessible adventure.
‘This hurts everyone': Advocates say Toronto failing to meet accessibility standards - Village Report (villagereport.ca)
From restaurants to water taxis to public transit, disability advocates point out obstacles across the city despite provincial legislation to be barrier-free by 2025
Icy Metro Vancouver sidewalks make problems for residents with mobility issues (vancouver.citynews.ca)
As Metro Vancouver gets a first blast of winter, one accessibility advocate is reminding people of the importance of keeping sidewalks clear.
World Champion para cyclist notes accessibility issues in Vancouver’s bike lanes | BCIT News (bcitnews.com)
Alberta disability advocates question province’s new ADAP program | Globalnews.ca (globalnews.ca)
The Alberta government is launching a new program similar to AISH, but will allow those with disabilities who can work to earn more without losing access to benefits.
Destinations and companies place accessibility at the forefront of tourism planning and product development (unwto.org)
UN Tourism and the European Accessibility Resource Centre (AccessibleEU) have joined accessible tourism champions to advance policies, standards, incentives, skills and business strategies, making inclusion a reality for millions of people.
RTDNA 2024 - NCPR - Excellence in DEI - Accessibility in the Adirondacks | NCPR News (northcountrypublicradio.org)
Cities Have One Less Excuse Not To Install Accessible Pedestrian Signals — Streetsblog USA (usa.streetsblog.org)
America has new accessibility guidelines for public streets, but that doesn't mean that they're being implemented everywhere. A new cheap, fast signal technology hopes to get them off the shelf.
SF supervisors might axe accessibility program penalties | Business | sfexaminer.com (sfexaminer.com)
Businesses say they fear impact of long-delayed penalties.
The boomer housing crisis is set to get worse: ‘We’ve never had a population pyramid that looks like this’ | Fortune (fortune.com)
Developers are not responding to heightened demand when it comes to senior housing. Many retirees are set to face wait lists to get into assisted living or other retirement communities.
DC Metro expands accessibility tech for visually impaired users (technical.ly)
WMATA teamed up with London’s Waymap, which gives hands-free audio instructions without the need for GPS or an internet connection.
This App Could Make D.C. One of the Most Accessible Transit Networks In the World — Streetsblog USA (usa.streetsblog.org)
A new app makes it possible for people with visual impairments to navigate D.C.'s transit network – and it could have benefits for other riders, too.
New York MTA Enhances Accessibility with ASL Interpreter Service - Railway Supply (railway.supply)
Waymap navigation app expands accessibility across DC’s public transit - Cities Today (cities-today.com)
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (Metro) has integrated Waymap, a navigation app designed to enhance accessibility for people with vision impairments, across its entire transit system.
chicagotribune.com/2025/02/11/lake-forest-marketing-executive/?share=wronh1xie0evnrioeotn (chicagotribune.com)
In an industry where communication is critical, Lake Forest’s Toby Wong has made an impact. Even after suffering a devastating health setback more than a decade ago, she continues to succeed not on…
His genes forecast Alzheimer’s. His brain had other plans. : Shots - Health News : NPR (npr.org)
Doug Whitney was supposed to develop Alzheimer's by 50. Now scientists are trying to understand why his brain remains healthy at 75.
Public events in Cincinnati should be more accessible soon. Here's why | WVXU (wvxu.org)
Two women who attended the 2024 Flying Pig Marathon and noticed a problem: they couldn't find a wheelchair-accessible bathroom. They turned the problem into advocacy and now the city is beefing up accessibility requirements for public events.
Ditch vote-by-mail for drop boxes? Most aren’t accessible to Utahns with disabilities. (sltrib.com)
Most of Utah’s ballot drop boxes are not accessible to people with disabilities. GOP lawmakers are pushing ahead with a bill that would force most Utahns to leave their ballots in a box.
Disability committee questions scooter safety amid improvements by Lime - Austin MonitorAustin Monitor (austinmonitor.com)
Ongoing concerns over the safety of electric scooters and the issues they pose to Austin’s disabled community were front and center at a recent meeting of the Mayor’s Committee for People With Disabilities. The meeting saw a presentation from e-scooter…
Google Super Bowl ad featured LaFayette accessibility advocate and travel blogger Cory Lee | Chattanooga Times Free Press (timesfreepress.com)
On Sunday night, millions tuned in to watch Super Bowl LIX, featuring a matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles, and a halftime performance by Kendrick Lamar and SZA.
Paratransit advocates make case in Albany for bus accessibility | WAER (waer.org)
Using paratransit in Western New York can be a difficult prospect for those with disabilities, so one local family is visiting Albany this week to advocate for improvements.
Bellingham’s elderly and disabled face challenges navigating WTA public transportation - The Front (thefrontonline.com)
Some elderly and disabled Bellingham residents struggle to use the Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) bus system due to limited features and accessibility issues.
Maryland disability advocates warn proposed $200 million budget cut imperils vital work - CBS Baltimore (cbsnews.com)
In the proposed budget to address the deficit and increasing costs to care for residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the Developmental Disabilities Administration would lose $200 million in state funding.
Chicago's homeless shelters fail on accessibility for disabled people - Chicago Sun-Times (chicago.suntimes.com)
Even the city's newest shelter falls short of reasonable accommodations required by law, advocates for people with disabilities say. Others write about illegal immigration, Republicans in Congress giving Trump his way and Gaza.
Fired EEOC official on what Trump's DEI crackdown could mean : NPR (npr.org)
Jocelyn Samuels was Trump's pick in 2020 to fill a Democratic seat on the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. She was fired in January, accused of embracing "radical" ideology.
Services for disabled Americans, trans youth and refugees feel the squeeze from Trump’s early actions | CNN Politics (edition.cnn.com)
President Donald Trump’s bid to remake the federal government is already affecting some vulnerable populations in the United States, according to nonprofits and health care providers who are grappling with delays in federal funding, new rules and changed guidance.
What DOGE could mean for Medicare and Medicaid? : Consider This from NPR : NPR (npr.org)
Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency is quickly expanding its reach through the federal government. It recently accessed systems at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Musk and his team now are looking at key payment and contracting systems for Medicare and Medicaid. That was first reported by the Wall Street Journal. On X, Musk said he believes quote "big money fraud is happening." Medicare insures older people. Medicaid offers insurance to low income people and those with disabilities. These two health insurance programs serve tens of millions of people, and they consume a huge part of federal and state budgets. So how could DOGE impact these services? For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org Email us at considerthis@npr.org
Trump Administration Provides Some Guidance on DEI Programs | Foley & Lardner LLP (foley.com)
Following up on the Trump Administration’s series of executive orders and statements regarding diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEI or DEIA) programs, on February 5, 2025, both the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the United States Attorney General Office issued memoranda reflecting additional guidance as to what may constitute an “illegal” DEI or DEIA program and directing enforcement action.
The Legal Landscape Around DEI Is Shifting. Your Messaging Should, Too. (hbr.org)
How you communicate about your policies can be just as important as what those policies are.
Donald Trump fired me from my EEOC job. Here’s the truth about DEI. (slate.com)
In rush to eliminate all traces of DEIA programs from the government, it seems almost inevitable that more employers will violate the civil rights laws.
Discover the issue of non-accessible facilities at the Pennsylvania Avenue Branch of the Enoch Pratt Free Library and the efforts to address it.
‘Disenfranchised’: Caregiver raises concerns about ADA accessibility at Vancouver Clinic - The Columbian (columbian.com)
A Vancouver woman has raised concerns about accessibility at Vancouver Clinic after facing challenges while attending health care appointments with her disabled mother.
How Tamarack Camps Creates an Inclusive, Accessible Community | Community | thejewishnews.com (thejewishnews.com)
Building accessibility: TRP supports Gatesville’s community - The Gatesville Messenger (gatesvillemessenger.com)
For the past four years, Gatesville has been home to the Texas Ramps Project (TRP), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free wheelchair ramps to low-income older adults and …
Social Media Star asfvision Showcases Incredible Accessibility Option at Blazers Game (si.com)
A social media star has shared an incredible accessibility option for fans that the Portland Trail Blazers have debuted.
Daniels opens accessibility standards to the industry - REMI Network (reminetwork.com)
Woolworths enhances accessibility with expanded Quiet Hour (finance.yahoo.com)
7 accessibility features on Windows 11 you didn’t know about (xda-developers.com)
Make your PC easier to use
Unzip Your Style: Zipped Brands Revolutionizes Everyday Footwear (newschannel5.com)
The shoes have a discreet zipper that make them more accessible. They have shoes like Nike and Dr. Martens on their website.
The Girl Who Figured It Out – Granite Media (granitemedia.org)
Refillable makeup packs feature tear strips and ergonomic grips for accessibility | Article | Packaging Europe (packagingeurope.com)
Tilt Beauty offers refillable mascara and lip treatment products in patented ergonomic packaging, intended as an accessible solution for consumers with mobility issues, visual impairments, skin conditions, and other disabilities.
HopSkipDrive Powers Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle Rides for Students in 10 Cities | Business Wire (businesswire.com)
HopSkipDrive today announced that it is facilitating transportation for students in wheelchair-accessible vehicles in 10 metros around the country, si
Motability Foundation endorses Park Access scheme for checking EV charge point accessibility - THIIS Magazine (thiis.co.uk)
The Motability Foundation has endorsed the British Parking Association (BPA)’s Park Access scheme, the UK's leading accreditation for inclusive and accessible parking, for checking that EV charge points are compliant with the BSI PAS 1899 accessibility standards. Park Access enables people planning their journeys to do so in confidence so that on arrival at their
Surrey Schools continues accessibility series by understanding, addressing and removing barriers (surreyschools.ca)
Revamped playground enhances accessibility for special needs children | WLRN (wlrn.org)
The Broward Children's Center unveiled on Thursday a $117,000 playground and basketball court that's intended to better accommodate the children with disabilities receiving services at its Dania Beach location.
Samsung’s latest smartphone has helpful accessibility features for people with sight and hearing loss - AT Today - Assistive Technology (attoday.co.uk)
Google has rolled out several updates to make Android’s hearing aid and screenreader experiences more accessible
MBTA opens first accessible commuter rail station | Mass Transit (masstransitmag.com)
Wellesley Square Station features freestanding mini high platforms on top of the existing inaccessible inbound and outbound platforms, as well as improvements to various paths...
Brantford to implement 2025-2029 Accessibility Plan | BrantBeacon (brantbeacon.ca)
Hovertravel retains leader status for inclusive transport - UKinbound (ukinbound.org)
Hovertravel has again been awarded ‘Leaders’ status in the UK Government’s Inclusive Transport Leaders Scheme. This marks the
Museum’s immersive mail train ride will aid accessibility (avinteractive.com)
DJW Projects will install the AV hardware element of a £1m accessibility upgrade at the Postal Museum in London, which includes a virtual ride for visitors unable to board a physical train.
Greenfield Recorder - Leyden officials plan for long-term accessibility upgrades (recorder.com)
LEYDEN — Town officials are beginning long-term planning for renovations and repairs needed across town facilities to bring them into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
What’s new at the Accessibility Directorate - Province of British Columbia (www2.gov.bc.ca)
Stay up to date on everything happening at the Accessibility Directorate.
State audit of Clifton Park calls for accessibility improvements (timesunion.com)
Comptroller says entrance signs, interior signs and water fountains need improvements at town buildings.
Rep Buchanan Introduces Bills to Expand Access to Telehealth | Benton Institute for Broadband & Society (benton.org)
Rep Vern Buchanan (R-FL) introduced two bills to extend flexible health care options to Americans in need of timely care. Rep Buchanan introduced the Permanent Telehealth from Home Act (H.R. 1407) to remove obstructive geographic limitations to telehealth services and the Lung Cancer Screening and Prevention Act (H.R. 1406) to help ensure timely access to advanced screenings for lung cancer.
DVB publishes accessibility implementation guidelines for DVB-I (broadbandtvnews.com)
Nominations open for Brantford Accessibility Improvement Awards | Brantford Expositor (brantfordexpositor.ca)
Nominations open for Brantford Accessibility Improvement Awards
Historic Parish Enhances Accessibility with New Pew Configuration - The Episcopal Diocese of Virginia (episcopalvirginia.org)
In the interest of becoming a more welcoming and inclusive Parish, St. James’ (Leesburg) has recently completed a pew reconfiguration project to improve accessibility for all who enter their doors.
Major improvements to improve accessibility at Surrey Quays station - Transport for London (tfl.gov.uk)
Major improvements to improve accessibility at Surrey Quays station
Principality Stadium is setting a new standard for accessible event experiences with the launch of its Accessible Fan Guides – a first-of-its-kind
Golf Business News - UK Golf Federation and EDGA Will Collaborate to Grow Accessible Golf in the UK (golfbusinessnews.com)
The number of golfers with a disability is increasing globally. EDGA, the acknowledged international experts in ‘G4D’ (golf for the disabled), works closely with the game’s leading bodies to ensure opportunities increase for any individual with a disability to thrive through their enjoyment of golf.
Mobility at Sea Unveils ‘Brand Envoys’ to Enhance Accessibility for Cruise Passengers - BusinessMole (businessmole.com)
Mobility at Sea, a specialist in mobility solutions for cruise travellers, has launched its Brand Envoys programme, designed to improve accessibility and customer experience for passengers with…
Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council Welcomes New Member Cristina Cortez | Mass.gov (mass.gov)
Teach Access Collaborates With Microsoft to Advance Accessibility Education on MS Learn (accessnewswire.com)
Peoria Police Department Becomes A Certified Autism Center™, Shows Commitment to Enhancing Accessibility (myfox8.com)
North Carolina news, weather, politics, sports and more from the heart of the Triad
Belfast venues and experiences recognised for work to support inclusivity at city’s first ever Inclusive Tourism Awards (belfastcity.gov.uk)
Six Belfast venues and visitor experiences have been recognised for their work to support disabled visitors at the city’s inaugural Inclusive Tourism Awards.
France – a pioneer in accessibility legislation (datenschutz-notizen.de)
France has a long legislation history in relation with accessibility and in June 2025 the European Accessibility Act enters into force.
Lawsuit filed to Block trump DEIA Executive Orders – Law Office of Lainey Feingold (lflegal.com)
I was glad to learn that a lawsuit was filed in federal court challenging two Executive Orders published shortly after trump became president. These sweeping (and unlawful) executive orders attack diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) from many angles. I was also glad to see tha
DEI not illegal in RI workplaces, attorney general says. Here's the guidance. (eu.providencejournal.com)
Attorney General Peter Neronha said much of the current conversation around diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility is 'dishonest.'
155 establishments including central ministries fined for failing to meet digital accessibility standards | India News - The Times of India (timesofindia.indiatimes.com)
India News: The Court of the Chief Commissioner of Persons with Disabilities has fined 155 establishments, including central ministries and private firms, Rs 10,0
Campuswide accessibility audit | UIC today (today.uic.edu)
Trump administration faces a growing number of lawsuits (insidehighered.com)
Higher education groups are suing the federal government to block executive orders and policy changes. Here’s the latest on the legal challenges.
“What College Should I Go To?” Student Accessibility Services for ADHD (additudemag.com)
Use this checklist to help your neurodivergent high schooler choose the right college—and find success when they get there.
Accessibility in Walla Walla: How Project Sidewalk is Paving the Way – Whitman Wire (whitmanwire.com)
Last semester, the word “ramp” was commonplace around campus, sprawled in colorful chalk on steps and next to cracks and ramps (or the lack thereof) as students highlighted the inaccessibility of many spaces that were previously portrayed as accessible. This raised concerns for many and in response, the Community Service Interest House partnered with the...
Student Accessibility Services (SAS) is failing the disability community – The Maine Campus (mainecampus.com)
Diversity-focused pages, language fade from Pitt, CMU websites (publicsource.org)
Federal Department of Education guidance preceded the move by University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon units to scrub some evidence of diversity-focused and “anti-racist” pages from the schools’ vast online presences.
Department of Education warns schools to drop DEI policies or risk federal funding (thenationaldesk.com)
The U.S. Department of Education sent a letter Friday giving schools a Feb. 28 deadline to ensure they comply with federal civil rights law.
Online Schools Can Be for Everyone: How Accessibility Features Are Changing the Game - The Times of India (timesofindia.indiatimes.com)
India Schools Online News: Online schools are transforming education by offering a flexible, inclusive, and structured learning environment. With advanced accessibility features
Soft Robotics Arms for Object Manipulation and Accessibility (azorobotics.com)
WPI researchers are developing an origami-inspired robotic arm to help wheelchair users grasp and carry objects, enhancing independence in daily activities.
UT student proposes bill improving evacuation procedure accessibility in public universities – The Daily Texan (thedailytexan.com)
Social work senior Fabiola Amaya was in Almetris Duren Residence Hall two years ago when the fire alarm went off. Amaya, who uses a wheelchair, said while others went down the stairs, she couldn’t evacuate. Her mom, who is her full-time caregiver, stayed with her. “There was this uncertainty of wanting to tell her that...
At the University of Colorado Boulder, Disability Services is transforming the campus into a more inclusive, supportive environment. Through innovative
Common Senses Festival Brings Arts and Innovation to UNO This Spring | News | University of Nebraska Omaha (unomaha.edu)
The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) will take center stage in an extraordinary celebration of art, science, and disability acceptance as the 2025 Common Senses Festival arrives this spring.
NEH awards WSU professor $150,000 to further develop accessibility app | Wichita State News (wichita.edu)
Feb. 17, 2025 — The National Endowment for the Humanities recently awarded a Wichita State University faculty member $150,000 to further develop a smartphone application that allows visually impaired people to read materials rich in visual content.
Accessibility Resource Center announces open forums for director finalists | UNM UCAM Newsroom (news.unm.edu)
After a competitive nationwide search, the Division of Student Affairs has announced the finalists for the position of director of the Accessibility Resource Center. The finalists are Jessica Machado, Senior Accessibility Associate, Disability Support...
Different ways of thinking, different ways of thriving: How ASU is supporting students with autism | ASU News (news.asu.edu)
According to the CDC, over 5.4 million adults in the U.S. are living with autism spectrum disorder, a condition that affects how individuals interact with others, learn and process information.
Creating accessible and inclusive undergraduate studentship opportunities: the ENRRICH experience | BMC Medical Education | Full Text (bmcmededuc.biomedcentral.com)
Recognizing the systemic exclusion of structurally oppressed groups from academic awards, the ENRRICH (Excellence in Neurodevelopment and Rehabilitation Research In Child Health) summer studentship emphasized the inclusion of structurally oppressed groups. Herein, we outline the processes in creating this funding opportunity, and plans for improvement, including enhanced representation among supervisors.
U.S. Department of Education Releases Dear Colleague Letter Addressing the Use of Race in Education, Announces Enforcement Forthcoming | Husch Blackwell (huschblackwell.com)
On February 14, 2025, the U.S. Department of Education released a Dear Colleague Letter (DCL) concerning discrimination based on race, color, and national origin in K-12 and higher education.
Are you ready for this year’s sakura (Cherry Blossoms)? (mailchi.mp)
Rethinking Find-in-Page Accessibility: Making Hidden Text Work for Everyone (schepp.dev)
Discover how to enhance accessibility and improve find-in-page search functionality using hidden="until-found" for icon-only buttons and hidden text labels.
Why Accessibility Must Be At The Heart Of Lifelong Learning In Every Organisation | Scoop News (scoop.co.nz)
Accessible learning materials encompass various tools and formats, from captioned videos to text-to-speech technology to Learning Management Systems (LMS) that cater to diverse needs. However, accessibility is most effective when it is integrated ...
User experience questionnaire in sign language for native users of Slovenian sign language | Scientific Reports (nature.com)
Accessibility of interactive services is vital for building an inclusive society. While accessibility standards are increasingly being adopted, there remains a gap in user experience evaluation approaches tailored to deaf participants. To address this, the User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ) was translated to Slovenian Sign Language (SSL) and its appropriateness and reliability evaluated in a research study. Two interactive TV solutions for deaf viewers were developed and evaluated using a standard written UEQ in Slovenian (UEQ TXT) and a UEQ translated to Slovenian Sign Language (UEQ SSL). A total of 27 deaf participants and 6 Slovenian Sign Language interpreters participated in the study. A thorough statistical analysis of the results was conducted on both individual UEQ attributes and overall scales. The results show no statistically significant differences in evaluation results when gathered with UEQ SSL and UEQ TXT. Participants expressed a strong preference for UEQ SSL, as it enabled them to express their opinions more accurately and completely in their primary language, fostering greater independence and ensuring their perspectives are fully represented. The findings show that the UEQ SSL is a valid and effective tool, with the potential to bridge the inclusion gap for deaf and hard-of-hearing users in UX evaluation studies.
Inclusive Innovation: The role of AI in accessibility and neurodiversity - Source Asia (news.microsoft.com)
Hear from Australia Post and GHD on how their employees are using Microsoft 365 Copilot to empower those with disability and who are neurodiverse to enhance their workday.
Breaking Barriers: The State of Workplace Accessibility for People with Disabilities in Greece - Eurofast (eurofast.eu)
Introduction: Are Greek Workplaces Truly Inclusive? Greece has made significant progress in disability rights, but when it comes to real workplace accessibility, challenges remain. Despite policies aligned with the United […]
How does limiting the Access to Work Scheme get more Disabled people into work? | Disability Rights UK (disabilityrightsuk.org)
Transforming the Mobility Industry: Trends and Innovations in Accessible Vehicles » World Business Outlook (worldbusinessoutlook.com)
he mobility industry is witnessing a profound transformation, driven by the urgent need to accommodate individuals with varying accessibility requirements.
An investigation of access to library facilities and services for persons with disabilities in India | Request PDF (researchgate.net)
Request PDF | An investigation of access to library facilities and services for persons with disabilities in India | This study assesses the accessibility of library facilities and services for persons with disabilities (PwDs) in Indian academic institutions. The... | Find, read and cite all the research you need on ResearchGate
Empowering or Excluding: New Research and Principles for Inclusive AI - YouTube (youtube.com)
(PDF) Unlocking Inclusive Experiences: Real-Time Web Accessibility Enhancement with On-Device Machine Learning (researchgate.net)
PDF | The web is now essential for everyday activities and meantime persons with disabilities face obstacles in using online content. Modern digital... | Find, read and cite all the research you need on ResearchGate
Accessibility of Australian government online cancer screening information for people with intellectual disability | springermedizin.de (springermedizin.de)
SpringerMedizin.de ist das Fortbildungs- und Informationsportal für Ärztinnen und Ärzte, das für Qualität, Aktualität und gesichertes Wissen steht.
Federal Register :: Transportation for Individuals With Disabilities; Adoption of Accessibility Standards for Pedestrian Facilities in the Public Right-of-Way (federalregister.gov)
Forgotten (disabilitydebrief.org)
Finding my own worth in a frightening shadow world
Don't start testing accessibility with a screen reader | Erik Kroes - Accessibility Consultant (erikkroes.nl)
Screen readers are great, and they deserve a lot of love. But let me give you a better option to start testing with.
Evaluating overlay-adjacent accessibility products – Eric Bailey (ericwbailey.website)
The rubric I use to evaluate these products remains very similar to how I scrutinize overlays.
The European Accessibility Act 2025: An internet for all - Wholegrain Digital (wholegraindigital.com)
Most countries’ government websites already prioritise accessibility, however the European Union is ensuring its usability doesn’t just stop at government websites, many product and service websites will be affected too. As of 28th June 2025, the European Accessibility Act 2025 comes into effect requiring any business that is trading, or plans to trade, in the […]
On the road to accessible transportation | Government of Prince Edward Island (princeedwardisland.ca)
At Spinal Cord Injury PEI (SCI PEI), the walls tell a story. Photos, news clippings, and personal testimonials show how their work has made a difference in people’s lives—reminders of resilience, advocacy, and the ongoing fight for accessibility and inclusion. Now, thanks to funding from the Live Well PEI Wellness Grant, supported by the Chief Public Health Office, SCI PEI is
The fight for affordable and accessible housing for all | PBS NewsHour Classroom (pbs.org)
Learn how the housing crisis in the United States is especially precarious for individuals with disabilities.
Importance of Digital Accessibility in Banking and Fintech - Global Trade Magazine (globaltrademag.com)
Digital banking and fintech services should be easy for everyone to use, but not all platforms are built that way. People have different...
Breaking barriers: The fight for accessibility in Limerick and beyond - LIMERICK VOICE (limerickvoice.com)
Accessibility remains a challenge for visually impaired and mobility-restricted individuals in Limerick. Activist Robbie Sinnott and local advocates push for improvements in urban design, transport, and public infrastructure to create a more inclusive city.
LaDonna Eriksen envisions accessible homes for all at ISE 2025 - Hiddenwires Magazine (hiddenwires.co.uk)
LaDonna Eriksen shares her vision for fully accessible homes at ISE 2025, emphasising the importance
Anger after government appears to drop Tory plans to put accessibility at heart of new national rail body – Disability News Service (disabilitynewsservice.com)
Labour appears to have dropped the Conservative government’s pledge to place accessibility right at the heart of the new national body that will run the railways. Concerns were raised by The Associ…
Huntsville accessibility and workplace disability inclusion (muskokaregion.com)
Coun. Dione Schumacher, YMCA’s Saleem Hall, and Diane Lupton of Community Living Huntsville weigh in on accessibility inclusion in the workplace, while the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act Alliance advocates for the Accessible Ontario Pledge and monitors political parties’ commitments — or lack thereof.
The AODA needs more teeth say accessibility advocates (simcoe.com)
Breaking Down Barriers assists thousands of residents with disabilities.
Beauty market shifts to target the young at heart in a rapidly aging Japan | AP News (apnews.com)
Yoshiko Abe is about to turn 89, but that hasn't stopped her from going to the gym every day and trying the free-of-charge makeup course at her housing complex. She was all smiles and glowing after putting on foundation and pink lipstick, something she hadn’t done in years. Japan is the fastest-aging society in the world, where more than a quarter of its population is 65 and older. No wonder the young-at-heart like Abe is a growing target for Japan Inc. Mizuho Bank estimates that the market for older people is estimated to grow to more than $650 billion this year.
Accessibility and disability dilemma in Nigeria (punchng.com)
There are a lot of barriers in almost everything, and accessibility is difficult, especially in three critical pillars of our existence, such as information, services, and products.
Eye Change Can Predict Dementia 12 Years Before Diagnosis | HuffPost UK Life (huffingtonpost.co.uk)
Here's what to watch out for.
‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame in Concert’ to offer tickets to disabled patrons following online criticism – Liam O'Dell (liamodell.com)
The producer of the upcoming Hunchback of The Notre Dame concert at the Prince of Edward Theatre has confirmed it will release “a number” of tickets for those with access needs, as Delfont Mackinto…
How hospitality can improve accessibility for low-vision patrons - hospitality | Magazine (hospitalitymagazine.com.au)
Despite being illegal, hospitality businesses rank low in accessibility for guide dog users. What needs to change?
White Rock's commitment to accessibility questioned - North Delta Reporter (northdeltareporter.com)
Coun. Christopher Trevelyan removed from committee, accessibility motion outvoted
ESA astronaut with physical disability medically cleared for ISS missions - SpaceNews (spacenews.com)
In a first, a European astronaut with a physical disability has been medically cleared for missions to the International Space Station.
Approving policy on disabled estimable – Zambia Daily Mail News Website (daily-mail.co.zm)
Breaking Barriers: The Case for Accessible Venues | United Nations Development Programme (undp.org)
For individuals with disabilities, the simple act of attending an event or dining at a restaurant can be fraught with obstacles. UNDP, in collaboration with the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, has conducted a sensitization session for venue and catering service providers engaged across the UN system. The session aimed to promote accessibility and inclusion by providing practical guidance on making venues and services more accommodating for persons with disabilities.
Public Transport in Curaçao Fails to Meet Accessibility Standards, Says Veteran Bus Driver - Curaçao Chronicle (curacaochronicle.com)
Curacao Public Transport
Accessibility for Manitoba Act, well intended, but insufficient - rabble.ca (rabble.ca)
While well intentioned, the Accessibility for Manitoba Act falls short of reaching its goals.
At last, accessibility for all - Opinion News | The Financial Express (financialexpress.com)
SC judgment is anticipated to instigate a substantial revision of the accessibility mandate for persons with disabilities as well as other demographic groups.
Home | Emirates News Agency (wam.ae)
Election offers chance to make Ontario accessible: advocate (simcoe.com)
Greens, Liberals and NDP and have made detailed accessibility pledges. Only the Tories have yet to respond.
Accessible Cruising on Disney Cruise Line’s New Treasure Ship - DCL Fan (dclfan.com)
Learn about wheelchair and scooter accessibility on Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, the Disney Treasure, in this Dreams Unlimited Travel Podcast episode!
Fly Like an Eagle ft. Steve Miller | Song Around The World | Playing For Change - YouTube (youtube.com)
Building a More Inclusive Fishing Tourism Industry in BC - Destination BC - Destination BC (destinationbc.ca)
Kids’ disability rights cases stalled as Trump began to overhaul Education Department – KGET 17 News (kget.com)
WASHINGTON (AP) — It was obvious to Christine Smith Olsey that her son was not doing well at school, despite educators telling her to leave it to the experts. The second-grade student stumbled over words, and other kids teased him so much he started to call himself “an idiot.” Though her son had been receiving […]
CM Selvena Brooks-Powers’ bill expands accessibility for NYC’s deaf community – QNS (qns.com)
The City Council recently passed a bill to increase accessibility for people who are deaf and hard of hearing.
PMJA 2024 - NCPR - Enterprise - Accessibility in the Adirondacks | NCPR News (northcountrypublicradio.org)
RAMP creates opportunities for RIers with disabilities: Commentary (eu.providencejournal.com)
The importance of accessibility cannot be overstated – it benefits us all by enriching lives and strengthening our state.
RAMP commits to a more inclusive, accessible Rhode Island (eu.providencejournal.com)
RAMP's success is measured by every business that opens its door and its perspective to accessibility for the true inclusion of all.
Potential cuts to Medicaid could impact developmental disability programs (news5cleveland.com)
The nation's Medicaid Program, with its $880 billion budget, is an attractive target for Republican lawmakers in Washington who are looking for places to slash spending.
The Lawsuit Trying to End Disability Rights Law Section 504 (time.com)
ike so many Americans, I’ve been trying to avoid social media lately. My brain feels fractured and frazzled trying to keep up with the headlines that are only escalating with red-alert alarm. I’m trying to stay informed, while moving slowly and sustainably, focusing on the good I can do right in front of me. But just after supper on a recent Thursday night, as my kid heads off to his bath and the dishwasher waits to be loaded, my thumb finds the Instagram icon on my phone, and I’m sucked away from the table and into a post that stops me cold: “Section 504 is Under Attack.”
Spotlight on Jen White-Johnson: Redefining Disability Design and Justice - Fun4theDisabled (fun4thedisabled.com)
At the intersection of art, education, and activism stands Jen White-Johnson, a neurodivergent Afro-Latina artist, designer, and educator. Through digital art and design, Jen challenges ableism and creates platforms for […]
Why Seattle’s housing density plans are a disability-rights issue | Cascade PBS (cascadepbs.org)
The city’s comprehensive plan would shift zoning rules to allow more multifamily and mixed-use buildings, which have accessibility requirements.
Accessibility of Rosa Parks, Helen Keller statues focus of state commission meeting • Alabama Reflector (alabamareflector.com)
The Alabama Women’s Tribute Statue Commission approved plaques for the Rosa Parks and Helen Keller statues and discussed a third educational plaque.
Autism in adults: Tips for seeking a diagnosis | AP News (apnews.com)
More adults have sought insight on whether they have autism in the last decade. It often happens after their children are diagnosed or when they see social media posts. Common signs of autism include trouble with social communication and a fixation on certain routines or topics. These may go unnoticed during childhood. It can be costly and difficult to obtain an autism diagnosis later in life due to a shortage of medical professionals trained to work specifically with adults.
Airlines Challenge Biden-Era Wheelchair Accessibility Rule (1) (news.bloomberglaw.com)
Some of the biggest US airlines are seeking to overturn a sweeping Biden administration rule that would impose higher standards for accommodating passengers with disabilities, particularly wheelchair users.
Airlines challenge DOT's rule protecting travelers with disabilities (eu.usatoday.com)
The DOT's Biden-era rule protecting travelers with mobility devices is being brought to court by major U.S. airlines.
Airlines look to remove consumer protections for travelers who use wheelchairs - CBS News (cbsnews.com)
Trade group for American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest and United say carriers are mishandling fewer passenger wheelchairs.
Murfreesboro man creates trendy accessible shoes for people with disabilities (wsmv.com)
Finding the right shoes can be tough, but for people who wear braces, the challenge is even bigger. One Murfreesboro man is working to change that by making name-brand shoes accessible for people with disabilities.
Living on Earth: 'EXPLORE' Act and Outdoor Accessibility (loe.org)
A new bipartisan law aims to help people of all abilities explore the outdoors. Syren Nagakyrie founded the nonprofit Disabled Hikers and joins Host Jenni Doering to share insights about the challenges people with disabilities face visiting America’s public lands and how the new law could help.
Texas lawmaker files bill to abolish the Texas Education Agency - CBS Texas (cbsnews.com)
A North Texas state representative has introduced legislation that would abolish the Texas Education Agency
Elon Musk ridiculed a blind person on X. Then a mob went to work. (msn.com)
Musk’s unparalleled online reach on X has given him a powerful tool to attack individuals who criticize DOGE.
Racine woman sues Anodyne, Koss over accessibility issues on websites (eu.jsonline.com)
A Racine resident has sued around 30 Wisconsin businesses over accessibility issues on their websites, in what critics call \
Federal employees with disabilities are worried and scared about gutting of workforce | Here & Now (wbur.org)
One of the largest employers of people with disabilities in this country is the federal government.
Could Section 504 be ruled unconstitutional in response to lawsuit filed by Texas, 16 other states? (ksat.com)
A specific line in the lawsuit is raising alarm for some people that the case could have a much more sweeping impact beyond removing protections for “gender dysphoria.”
A growing number of parents and disability advocates are worried a lawsuit filed in Sept. 2024 will dismantle a law that protects and helps people with disabilities.
Let's think more intentionally about physical accessibility - The Standard (standardmedia.co.ke)
Accessibility enables persons with disabilities to live independently and to participate fully in all aspects of life.
Civil and Human Rights Organizations Sue Trump Administration Over Executive Orders Banning Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility and Erasing Transgender PeopleThe Legal Defense Fund (LDF) and Lambda Legal claim these orders will severely limit organizations’ ability to provide critical social and health services.
ARC accessibility enhanced thanks to Tennessee American Water and American Water Charitable Foundation | UTC News (blog.utc.edu)
The ARC was awarded a $10,000 grant from the American Water Charitable Foundation in partnership with Tennessee American Water to install a new ADA-compliant chair lift, enhancing accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.
The Daniels Corporation Opens Accessibility Standards to the Industry, Raising the Bar for Inclusive Housing (businesswire.com)
Daniels publicly releases its Accessibility Designed Program Technical Standards Guide, empowering the industry to advance accessibility in housing.
Berghaus' initiative changes the game for those with disabilities with adaptive outdoor gear (womenshealthmag.com)
With innovations like noise-reduction fleece and discreet catheter access, they're redefining accessibility
Tilt Beauty launches accessible makeup packaging with inclusive design (personalcareinsights.com)
Tilt Beauty has launched in the US to make cosmetic packaging accessible for people with disabilities. The beauty brand is debuting with the Lashscape Mascara and Grip Stick hydrating lip treatment, designed to be easy to hold, open, and apply. Aerin Glazer founded Tilt Beauty after she was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis and found traditional makeup challenging to use. Glazer created the brand to help others facing similar setbacks, to address the market gap.
Rikert Outdoor Center Expands Accessibility With Adaptive Bike Days (mountaintimes.info)
This winter, the Rikert Outdoor Center is launching Adaptive Bike Days, a program aimed at making outdoor recreation more accessible for individuals with mobility challenges. Running every Wednesday through March, this initiative allows participants to explore Vermont’s winter landscapes on specially designed adaptive bikes.
Google Maps can help you find accessible locations — here’s how (msn.com)
Discover if a business you’re looking visit is wheelchair or pram-friendly
Attitude is Everything launch new Live Events Access Charter (prsformusic.com)
The online resource will continue to help improve accessibility for disabled artists, audiences and music professionals.
NTA introduces five new accessible hybrid buses on route 139 (nationaltransport.ie)
Passengers traveling on Route 139, which operates between Blanchardstown and Naas, will now benefit from five state-of-the-art hybrid buses which were introduced to the route on 4th February 2025.
#BuildFor2030: Empowering an inclusive and accessible world (partnerinnovation.microsoft.com)
Technology can empower the 1+ billion people living with disabilities to achieve more, and the benefit is for us all. Solutions built with inclusive design and accessibility top of mind can help improve our experience, productivity, and engagement.
Webex partners with Applause to boost product accessibility (itbrief.com.au)
Webex has joined forces with Applause to enhance accessibility features, recruiting testers with disabilities to improve user experience across its products.
Disability Forward CHI Employee Resource Group (chicago.gov)
The Disability Forward CHI Resource Group, an official Employee Resource Group (ERG) of the City of Chicago, enhances workforce diversity to promote inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA) to better serve our residents. Our focus is fostering accessibility and inclusion within the City to cultivate a safe space for employees with disabilities. We encourage mutual learning on policies and resource-sharing to support accessibility efforts.
The FaceOut Project (faceoutproject.com)
For the right to legal capacity! (enil.eu)
Every disabled person, no matter the impairment, has the right to full legal-capacity. Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities grants you this right. Nobody should decide for you, what you do with your property, which contracts you enter into or where you live.
IAAP EU Event 2025 (accessibilityassociation.org)
The IAAP EU Accessibility 2025 Hybrid Event focuses on various aspects of the European Accessibility Act, applicable for everyone who wants to sell products or services in the EU from 28 June 2025.
Critical theory and Independent Living (manchesteruniversitypress.co.uk)
Critical theory and Independent Living explores intersections between contemporary critical theory and disabled people's struggle for self-determination. The book highlights the affinities between the Independent Living movement and studies of epistemic injustice, biopower, and psychopower. It discusses in depth the activists' critical engagement with welfare-state paternalism, neoliberal marketisation, and familialism. This helps develop a pioneering comparison between various welfare regimes grounded in Independent Living advocacy. The book draws on the activism of disabled people from the European Network on Independent Living (ENIL) by developing case studies of the ENIL's campaigning for deinstitutionalisation and personal assistance. It is argued that this work helps rethink independence as a form of interdependence, and that this reframing is pivotal for critical theorising in the twenty-first century.
Independent Living Centers in the U.S.: breaking down barriers for disabled people (dilmurad.me)
The District of Columbia Center for Independent Living, Inc. (DCCIL) was established in April 1981 through Congressional Legislation to promote independent lifestyles for people with significant disabilities, assist them to meet their selected independent living goals and to mainstream people with disabilities into society. DCCIL is a non-profit community-based, customer-controlled, cross-disability center which is directed by with persons with disabilities to lead independent and productive lives.
A one-sided deal (disabilitydebrief.org)
When inclusive education means getting rid of our differences
What Is DEIA? What Is Happening to DEIA Under the New Administration? (mailchi.mp)
Since taking office, President Trump has taken several actions attacking diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (often called “DEIA” or “DEI”) in the federal government. AAPD has put together this resource to provide an overview of what DEIA is, why DEIA efforts are essential for disabled Americans, and how diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility efforts have been affected by these recent Presidential actions, including Executive Orders and guidance related to them.
Global Citizenship (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Welcome, Simon! We’re excited to talk with you about self-direction around the world and how self-direction in disability fits into the larger picture of your work to start Citizen Network Research and your new book, Everyday Citizenship: Seven keys to a life well lived.
Living Fully, On My Terms (publications.ici.umn.edu)
The Self-Determination Program has completely changed my life. I’m part of the program, and I work for the California’s Department of Developmental Services. We have 21 Regional Centers that provide services to individuals and families, and work is underway to standardize the program across the Regional Centers.
Authoring Myself (publications.ici.umn.edu)
More than anything, self-direction means knowing who you are, how to ask for help, and who to get support from. When I was a younger man, I managed myself according to what other people thought I should be. Now I manage myself according to who I want to be. It’s not that I have everything figured out; I don’t. But I have certain principles that help guide me.
We Still Need Support (publications.ici.umn.edu)
I have had an intellectual disability throughout my life and a physical disability that started after I went to college. In 2005 I graduated from New York Institute of Technology’s Vocational Independence Program, then returned home to live with my parents. In 2018, I moved into my own apartment, and this is when I began my journey of independence with self-direction.
Full Circle The Importance of a Network (publications.ici.umn.edu)
After I spoke on a panel at the Self-Directed Support Conference, a woman stood up and said that when she was a teenager, she often babysat for a young boy with autism. She said it was hard sometimes because she didn’t know how to work with kids, particularly someone with a disability, and she learned a lot. She said it prepared her to be a parent, and she shared that she is now the parent of a young adult with autism. And then she said that boy she babysat was on the panel, and it was me!
Urgency, Gratitude, Engagement: Navigating Self-Direction in Rhode Island (publications.ici.umn.edu)
In July 2023, RIPIN, a Rhode Island-based non-profit organization that focuses on helping consumers navigate healthcare, special education, and healthy aging, launched its newest program: the Self-Directed Support Program. The program, funded by a grant from the Rhode Island Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals (BHDDH), aims to guide and support individuals and their allies in navigating the systems and supports available to them when they choose to self-direct their services.
I Direct Everything in My Life (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Living with a traumatic brain injury means you need to discover your own way on the road of life. For me, this has led me to poetry and to advocacy. Helping people is my greatest jolt and I do not shut it off. This is who I am.
Professionalizing the Supports’ Broker Role (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Over the last decade, The Institute on Disabilities at Temple University (IOD) has partnered with Values Into Action, a provider of services to people with disabilities who self-direct, to create systems change so that individuals with disabilities are able to design, choose and control their own services and supports.
What I've Learned as an Employer (publications.ici.umn.edu)
I’m a training leader for case managers in new self-direction programs or for support brokers, participants, and families who are new to self-direction. Being a case manager means assuming the participant is capable and is the boss. What the participant wants is what goes.
Scaling Self-Direction (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Applied Self-Direction is a national organization with a single mission: to advance self-direction. The organization serves as a hub to connect diverse stakeholders, track and disseminate innovative practices, and build community in a space that is all too often decentralized.
Feature Issue on Self Direction (publications.ici.umn.edu)
I’m an artist who paints abstract works with acrylics, pastels, and charcoal. I liked art when I was a kid and still do today. I found a wonderful teacher and friend who has taught me so much. Her name is Jackie Adamo. She was a teacher and is always an artist. I met her through friends. She saw my value and potential and was open to the movement issues I deal with daily. Jackie went back to work full time and is no longer available, though she may be available in the future on holidays and we’re talking about asking her if we can occasionally come to her studio. Other staff are kind, but not as attuned to my abilities as an artist.
Feature Issue on Self Direction (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Self-directed services (SDS) with budget authority are commonly thought of as a “light touch” service, only appropriate for those with minimal support needs. On the contrary, the choice and control afforded by SDS make it the best waiver service option for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) and complex needs; this group includes those with significant mental illness, communication challenges, medical needs, and people who are at risk to harm themselves or others.
Call for dementia-friendly travel environments to aid cognitive accessibility (medicalxpress.com)
Researchers from the School of Medicine and Global Brain Health Institute have examined the challenges and opportunities of making travel more dementia friendly. Currently there are over 64,000 people living with dementia (PLwD) in Ireland and global numbers are projected to rise to 139 million people worldwide living with dementia by 2050.
Getty Images Renews Focus On More Authentic Disability Representation (forbes.com)
Getty Images in partnership with Verizon and the National Disability Leadership Alliance has plans to encourage more accurate and diverse representations of disability.
Angel City Sports (angelcitysports.org)
Adaptive sports for kids, adults, and veterans with physical disabilities or visual impairments.
‘First-of-its-kind’ Center for Disability Inclusion Opens in New Hope (ccxmedia.org)
Twin Cities nonprofit Lifeworks Services is behind the grand opening of the brand new Center for Disability Inclusion, considered the first of its kind in Minnesota.
'Mum, what's wrong with her?': How to answer kids' questions about disability (abc.net.au)
Answering curious questions from kids about disability can be tricky. Here's how three people with lived experience say you should go about it.
UNM launches campus mobility survey to improve safety and accessibility (news.unm.edu)
The University of New Mexico invites students, faculty, staff, and campus visitors to share their experiences with campus mobility through a survey that will inform the Safe Mobility Action Plan's recommendations to enhance pedestrian safety and micromobility access.
The growing demand for disability accommodations in universities (theglobeandmail.com)
33 per cent of disability accommodations are mental-health related
‘Beyond the Gaze – Representing Disability in Contemporary’ (spectatornews.com)
A student-curated exhibit representing disabilities at the Foster Gallery
9 Android features to support workplace accessibility (blog.google)
Android Enterprise provides a high-quality suite of built-in accessibility tools that address the needs of employees with disabilities.
The Daniels Corporation Opens Accessibility Standards to the Industry, Raising the Bar for Inclusive Housing (financialpost.com)
The Daniels Corporation ( Daniels) – a builder, developer and leader in creating vibrant, inclusive communities across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) – is making its Accessibility Designed Program (ADP) Technical Standards Guide publicly available for the first time, providing a new industry benchmark for accessibility in housing.
Empire State Development (ESD) and Pioneer Works today announced the completion of a $12.7 million renovation at the nonprofit cultural center's 25,000 square foot building in Red Hook, Brooklyn. The center, which cultivates community through the arts and sciences, has transformed its historic space to enhance accessibility and expand programming. With $2.3 million in state support, the renovation of the 150-year-old former ironworks factory has upgraded existing infrastructure and made the historic building and adjoining 20,000 square foot garden fully ADA accessible. These upgrades will allow Pioneer Works to substantially expand its programmatic impact and continue to grow as a dynamic epicenter of arts, science and culture in Brooklyn.
EDI Changemaker strives to design with accessibility in mind (brocku.ca)
In a world increasingly reliant on rapidly evolving technologies, Arjun Rijhwani said putting accessibility at the heart of the design process ensures everyone has equitable opportunities to learn, work and thrive.
Thru-Hiking While Blind: Completing the Appalachian Trail With A Visual Disability (thetrek.co)
I’m legally blind and completely color blind. I was born with a genetic visual disability that shaped my world as I grew up, from struggling to learn how to match clothes to eventually accepting that I’ll never drive a car. In time, backpacking became my escape from many aspects of the rigid seeing world of cities and schools — but in truth, hiking comes with its own set of challenges and limitations.
Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values programme overview (commission.europa.eu)
This programme aims to protect and promote rights and values as enshrined in the EU Treaties and the Charter of Fundamental Rights.
Cohesion, resilience and values: Heading 2 of the 2021-2027 MFF (europarl.europa.eu)
Heading 2 – Cohesion, resilience and values – is the biggest of the seven headings in the multiannual financial framework (MFF) for the 2021-2027 period in terms of budget. Since about 87 % of the heading falls under shared management and will be distributed to national envelopes, for the Member States it is a particularly important part of the MFF. It is also the most diverse heading in terms of the types of programme and fund included. It encompasses expenditure on cohesion, one of the EU's long-standing policies, on an entirely new budgetary instrument supporting economic recovery and resilience, and on other increasingly important goals, including youth, the creative sector, values, equality and the rule of law. Moreover, the bulk of the Next Generation EU instrument will be channelled through programmes under Heading 2. This briefing presents Heading 2 in detail. It aims to provide some clarity on its structure and allocation, and is structured around three spending areas: cohesion; recovery; and citizens and values. In the 2021-2027 MFF, the allocation on economic, social and territorial cohesion (subheading 2a) – the budget for cohesion policy – is about 10 % lower than its equivalent, subheading 1b, in the 2014-2020 MFF. Additional resources from REACT-EU, a temporary instrument financed under the Next Generation EU instrument (NGEU), will lift the cohesion policy budget to a level comparable with the allocation under the previous MFF. This is an update of a briefing from January 2019.
Connecting vulnerable and homeless citizens to Giessen’s social support network (european-social-fund-plus.ec.europa.eu)
When you’re living on the streets, it may feel like you have been let down by society, and this can push you further away from finding and receiving the help you need to be able to improve your life.
How Stephanie found the courage to control her anxiety | European Social Fund Plus (european-social-fund-plus.ec.europa.eu)
After many years of bullying in primary school, Stephanie was overwhelmed with anxiety.
Beyond stigma: Latvia’s inclusive initiatives for people with disabilities (european-social-fund-plus.ec.europa.eu)
In Latvia, a series of deinstitutionalisation projects are helping people with disabilities people reintegrate society, through group apartments, day care centres, and community-based social care services.
Shaping the future of the EU together: the Commission sets out the road to the next EU long-term budget (ec.europa.eu)
Today, the European Commission published a Communication on ‘The Road to the next Multiannual Financial Framework'.
The next EU budget must keep supporting marginalised groups (edf-feph.org)
We call on the EU not to remove support for marginalised or at-risk groups when deciding on the rules for EU funding post-2028.
Ensuring the next EU budget supports disability rights (edf-feph.org)
The way the European Union (EU) spends its money is determined by what is known as the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), agreed every 7 years. This is essentially the EU’s seven-year budget.
What do disability, queerness, magic, and nightlife have in common...? (summerminerva.substack.com)
So… last month I applied to a podcast co-host position and sadly did not get the job. I did, however, take that as an opportunity to showcase by interviewing skills by interviewing my good friend Kevin Gotkin about their experience working with the disability community, nightlife, and queerness, as well as our shared radical faerie culture. Kevin recently appeared on the Kelly Clarkson show!
Disabled Drag Artists and Ravers Join Forces for Crip Ecstasy (kqed.org)
The party at The Stud in San Francisco invites those with different access needs to let loose.
Social Security at 90: A Bipartisan Roadmap for the Program’s Future (nasi.org)
As it marks its 90th anniversary, Social Security has become the foundation of economic security for nearly all Americans, providing a suite of insurance that protects workers and their families in the event of retirement, disability, or death. However, the program currently faces a long-term financing gap which, if unaddressed, will result in across-the-board
The Extraordinary in Disability: Jennifer White-Johnson’s Cultural and Visual Design (bmoreart.com)
Neurodivergent Artist, Mother, and Activist Defies Invisibility
US Special Education at Risk? (disabilityalmanac.com)
Is US Special Education in trouble? Absolutely. Is this news? Not really - unfortunately. Let's start with the facts today: Close to 30 states have not been in basic Compliance with the Individual's Disabilities with Education Act (IDEA) even ONCE in the past 10 years and IDEA is turning 50 this year.
The Museum Accessibility Spectrum: Re-imagining Access and Inclusion (routledge.com)
The Museum Accessibility Spectrum engages with discussions around access to museums and argues that what is impairing the progress of museums towards inclusion is the current ableist model of access.
OSL Summer Program - Open Style Lab (openstylelab.org)
Open Style Lab is a 501©(3) nonprofit organization committed to making style accessible for everyone, regardless of their cognitive and physical abilities.
South Carolina AG backs away from lawsuit challenging disability civil rights (postandcourier.com)
Triggered by the idea that gender dysmorphia is a protected disability, 17 states — including South Carolina — had challenged federal disability protections.
Disability Equity Webinar Series: Black Disabled Leadership: Essential Yet Overlooked (disabilityphilanthropy.org)
Unpack the intersecting oppression of ableism and anti-Blackness, and learn how philanthropy can support Black disabled leadership.
Pavar Snipe: Chronically Petty (caveat.nyc)
Part of the Black Women in Comedy Laff Fest, “Chronically Petty” is Pavar Snipe’s multimedia comedy show. See how she turns petty into art.
Buffalo Sonnet: Launch Event for Audio Described Digital Comic (lincolncenter.org)
Buffalo Sonnet is a digital comic inspired by the historic San Juan Hill neighborhood, created by writer and illustrator Kamau Ware. In collaboration with the Social Audio Description Collective, we’re excited to launch an audio described version of the work, designed for audiences who are blind or have low vision.
Investing in health justice (themissingbillion.org)
Increasing visibility of funding dedicated to making health systems inclusive for people with disabilities
2wenty-5ive: Arts of Life 2000 – 2025 – Arts of Life (artsoflife.org)
Established in 2000, Arts of Life is a progressive art studio that puts inclusivity and creativity first in support of adult artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The community is committed to crafting a space where each artist feels genuine respect, trust, and, most importantly, that their voice is welcome and heard.
Inclusive Sans makes the case for accessibility being standard, not secondary (itsnicethat.com)
Olivia King’s legibility-first type family looks to change the conversation around readability in type design – where accessibility is default and not supplemental.
Against Abandonment (emilysdupree.substack.com)
An interview with Sunaura Taylor
Wet, Warm Bodies: Trisha Baga and Yo-Yo Lin in Conversation (unitedstatesartists.org)
Baga and Lin discuss embodiment, endurance, and interdependence
My Aunt Frieda Tankus- Co-founding Vice President of Disabled In Action (DIA) (crisesnotes.com)
This is an “Off Topic” piece of Notes on the Crises. Off topic pieces will always be colored blue. Readers are encouraged to ignore them if they are only interested in my day-to-day analysis and reporting. Check my “on topic” pieces for information about the anonymous sources I’m collecting, and ways you can support the newsletter’s coverage of the Trump-Musk crisis. As always: if you want to back my work, take out a paid subscription, or pester your institution to do so. Thanks!
Meet the woman making fact-checking accessible to Deaf people in Nigeria (reframingdisability.substack.com)
Zainab Sanni on Facts Inclusive; media recommendations; a resource and an event
Refusing to Be Made Whole (upress.state.ms.us)
In Refusing to Be Made Whole: Disability in Black Women’s Writing, author Anna LaQuawn Hinton examines how contemporary Black women writers present becoming disabled as a traumatic and violent experience of Black womanhood. Nevertheless, Black women embrace disabled Black womanhood by turning to Africanist spiritual understandings of wholeness, which view debilitating injury and illness as not only physical but also spiritual, not just an individual problem but a symptom of discord in the community. Black women use these belief systems to reimagine healing in ways that make space for a variety of bodymindspirits. Hinton maintains that this is not only a major theme in contemporary Black women’s writing but that it also shapes the formal elements characteristic of the Black women’s literary tradition.
Helix Gallery (jefferson.edu)
A space for creative projects that explore connections between the arts, humanities, and health, as well as an annual student art exhibition.
LOVE POSITIVE WOMEN 2025 at MoMA PS1 (visualaids.org)
Visual AIDS is proud to partner with ongoing collaborator MoMA PS1 for our annual project LOVE POSITIVE WOMEN. The project features hundreds of heartfelt Valentine cards on handmade paper created by an intersecting group of artists, activists, and HIV-positive women.
"How's The Weather?" organized by Megan Bent (niadart.org)
NIAD Art Center is an art and disability organization in Richmond, California. Here in our online gallery and store you can view and purchase all of the available work of NIAD Art Center studio artists. 50% of all sales go directly to the artists.
SiQ x Peoples' Hub - Disability Day of Mourning RSVP (airtable.com)
There are 8 short required questions to register. We ask these questions to gauge who our audience is and as basic screening for security purposes. Questions reveal themselves as you advance through the form.
Find your local Day of Mourning 2025 vigil site - Autistic Self Advocacy Network (autisticadvocacy.org)
On Saturday, March 1st, the disability community will gather virtually and across the nation to remember these disabled victims of filicide – disabled people murdered by their family members or caregivers.
A Better Life (publications.ici.umn.edu)
I am a parent and guardian of Gabrielle Joy Austin, which is her English name. We just call her Wob, which comes from her indigenous name, which means Golden Eagle Woman.
Facing the Falls (youtube.com)
Facing the Falls is a short documentary directed by Celia Aniskovich that tells the story of international disability rights advocate and entrepreneur, Cara Elizabeth Yar Khan. Deep in the throes of an aggressive, fatal muscle-wasting disease and no longer able to walk unassisted, Cara ventures out on a daring, 12-day expedition through the Grand Canyon. Cara's journey to live an extraordinary life and shatter stigma against people living with disabilities unexpectedly becomes a deep dive into fear, trust and vulnerability. As the entire expedition team grapples with unanticipated dangers in a truly remote wilderness, they also come face to face with their individual demons, insecurities, and internal conflicts. Facing the Falls is a story of fear, adrenaline, ambition, determination, hubris, courage, and perseverance against the odds.
Facing the Falls (youtube.com)
Facing the Falls is a short documentary directed by Celia Aniskovich that tells the story of international disability rights advocate and entrepreneur, Cara ...
My Voice, My Choice (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Two pilot projects completed in Texas demonstrate the potential benefits of self-directed mental health care.
It's All About Freedom (publications.ici.umn.edu)
I was diagnosed with autism at a really young age, like 2 or 3, and was put into a lot of therapies: occupational therapy, music therapy, sound therapy, all sorts of integrative therapies. But I just thought these therapies were play because my parents didn’t tell me I had an autism diagnosis. During eighth grade, my best friend moved away, and I was starting to really struggle socially, and so they finally told me. I was furious at first, but now I think that if they had told me early on, I might not have learned the skills I needed to function in the neurotypical world, which still aid me today.
What Would a Great Self-Direction Program Look Like? (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Self-Direction is based on a simple idea: I want to control my services, so I can have more control of my life. On its face, it would appear that designing a self-direction program should be a straightforward enterprise: set a person’s individual budget, give the person control of their budget and their choice of providers/workers, and create a mechanism for providers and workers to get paid.
The Promise of Self-Direction for Cultural Competence (publications.ici.umn.edu)
The promise of self-direction is truly a game changer for all people living with disabilities, and especially for those from historically marginalized racial, ethnic, and cultural communities.
Race, Culture, and Self-Direction (publications.ici.umn.edu)
The Lurie Institute for Disability Policy, in partnership with the Human Services Research Institute (HSRI), is conducting a five-year research study, Self-Direction and Community Living Outcomes For People of Color , to explore barriers and highlight best practices for outreach, education, and support.
Self-Direction: What the NCI Data Show (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Self-direction has grown as an option for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) in state service systems. Following advocacy efforts and successful demonstration projects in the 1980s and 1990s, the Affordable Care Act required the development of a more concrete emphasis on self-direction across the Department of Health and Human Services. The 2024 Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Access Rule emphasizes the importance of giving people with IDD the opportunity to self-direct.
What Self-Direction Means to Me (publications.ici.umn.edu)
My self-direction journey has been more of a self-discovery than a series of steps to make my life better. When I was first asked to try it out, I said this isn’t for me because of all the regulations that were in place, but when I think back now about what it has given me, I am grateful for the opportunity.
Putting Self-Determination Back in Self-Direction (publications.ici.umn.edu)
Cultural anthropologist Margaret Mead famously noted that changing the world begins not with many people uniting around an idea, but with a small, thoughtful group.
Meet the woman making fact-checking accessible to Deaf people in Nigeria (reframingdisability.substack.com)
Zainab Sanni on Facts Inclusive; media recommendations; a resource and an event
Worldwide Mask Bloc Directory (maskbloc.org)
MaskBloc.org lists active Mask Blocs around the world. Free high-quality masks, COVID-19 tests and other equipment for your community. Mutual Aid & We Keep Us Safe.
Failure to Comply (bookshop.org)
How far would you go to have real freedom? To have true autonomy of both mind and body? The narrator of Failure to Comply wants self-determination at all costs, and they want you to know what it did, in fact, cost them. Their story is just a little hard to convey, as they're not entirely sure where, or even when, they are.Set in a dystopian, post-apocalyptic future, this literary sci-fi novel presents a world where humans have been unshackled from disease and their basest desires thanks to the genetic engineering and societal supervision of RSCH--an inscrutable entity with unimaginable power (including the ability to literally shape reality). In RSCH's march toward perfecting the species, however, there are "deviants" (including LGBTQ+ people and people with disabilities) who are fighting for a different vision of humanity. But where can they find hope when horror abounds, projected into their own bodies and minds by RSCH?
Centre for Performance, Technology, and Equity (PTEQ) (cssd.ac.uk)
Funded by a £5.6 million grant, the Centre for Performance, Technology, and Equity (PTEQ) is dedicated to innovating ground-breaking approaches to immersive and digital technologies from a performance-led perspective, in tandem with promoting social equity.
Hannah Wong - Social Innovation + Change Initiative (sici.hks.harvard.edu)
I fight for inclusive design justice on the premise that everyone deserves a beautiful world.
Describing Disability Justice in America (storymaps.arcgis.com)
A Journey Through Image Description
Free to Use and Reuse: Disability Awareness | Library of Congress Free to Use and Reuse (loc.gov)
This Free to Use set features people with disabilities throughout U.S. history—at work, at play, at school, and advocating for change. Note that these items were created during many different eras. Historical terminology on older collection items can include words considered offensive, but the original terminology also helps in understanding the context for the items’ creation.
Alice Wong Takes a Trip to the White House (criticaldesignlab.com)
What has been the role of remote access before and during the COVID-19 pandemic for the disability community? In this mini-episode, Kelsie looks at two articles documenting Alice Wong’s 2015 trip to the White House via a robot. These documents highlight an innovative remote access technology and the importance of remote access before the COVID-19 pandemic.
UCLA Hybrid Access Strike (criticaldesignlab.com)
What has been the role of remote access before and during the COVID-19 pandemic for the disability community? In this mini-episode, Kelsie looks at documents associated with the UCLA Hybrid Access Strike and reflects on solidarity.
Contra* Remote Access with Hector Ramirez (criticaldesignlab.com)
What has been the role of remote access before and during the COVID-19 pandemic for the disability community? Aimi’s conversation with Hector Ramirez, a disabled, queer and Two-Spirit, and biracial disability rights advocate focuses on how remote access has transformed during the pandemic, and the implications of the pandemic on their disability community and culture.
Disability Community Briefing: What You Can Do to Stop the Attack on Section 504 (dredf.org)
In September 2024, a group of 17 states filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government called Texas v. Becerra. The lawsuit asks the court to get rid of Section 504 and its regulations. Section 504 is a major civil rights law for people with disabilities. Section 504 makes sure that people with disabilities are treated fairly and included at school and at their doctors appointments. Losing Section 504 would be a devastating loss of major civil rights for the disability community. This community briefing, and our Protect 504 page, explains
DEI Actions Still Legal in the USA (youtube.com)
Do you work for an organization that is scaling back its DEI initiatives? Here are some essential actions that are still legal in the US.
SAVVY ALLY ACTION (savvyallyaction.com)
This page offers a description of the book "The Savvy Ally," book reviews and endorsements, and links to purchase.
Some performers canceled their Kennedy Center shows. Here's why W. Kamau Bell didn't (npr.org)
Comedian W. Kamau Bell speaks with NPR's Michel Martin about his decision to perform at the Kennedy Center after President Trump assumed the organization's chairmanship.
Flirting is inaccessible (lucywebster.substack.com)
Something that is more of a problem than it used to be
A class-action lawsuit is challenging Disneyland’s Disability Access Service (DAS), alleging that the resort disproportionately excluded guests with physical disabilities from using the service.
In 'Interabled,' YouTube stars Squirmy and Grubs tell stories of love and disability (wbur.org)
Shane Burcaw has a genetic disease and uses a wheelchair, his wife Hannah Burcaw does not. On their YouTube channel, they share stories of their lives. Now, the pair has published a book.
Crip Doula Note #1 (ngwagwa.substack.com)
Mask bans, bird flu, and counterinsurgency
How Boulder’s new ‘blue envelope’ program aims to help people with disabilities feel safer (kunc.org)
Being stopped by the police can be pretty stressful. And for people with conditions like autism spectrum disorder or Tourette’s syndrome, the encounter can be especially tense. A new program from the Boulder Police offers a simple tool to make people with disabilities feel safer. We learn more on today's In The NoCo.
What the Assault on Public Education Means for Kids with Disabilities (newyorker.com)
The future of the Department of Education may hinge on the world views of two billionaires who abhor what they perceive as weakness and waste.
A new hope for the Web (sirkotsky.substack.com)
Why RSS readers and social media content aggregators matter, and what does accessibility have to do with it
Crip Doula Notes (ngwagwa.substack.com)
A series introduction
Today's Newsletter Brought to You by the Letter "D" 🐶 (gaelynnlea.substack.com)
Dogs, Democracy, Disability, (Concert) Dates, and Doctor Who!
Opinion | Trump Is on the Wrong Side of History by Design (nytimes.com)
The genius of the right-wing crusade against D.E.I. is that the term is amorphous enough that it can mean many different things to many different people.
Action Alert: Help Save Section 504 (ncil.org)
Section 504 is an important law that protects people with disabilities from discrimination. Section 504 and its rules say that places like schools, hospitals, and doctors’ offices can’t discriminate if they get money from the United States government. If the court rules in favor of the states bringing the lawsuit, it would be very harmful to the disability community.
EU must urgently fund disability organisations affected by US aid cuts (edf-feph.org)
A group of European disability organisations and services are calling on the European Union and non-governmental donors to provide emergency funding to disability organisations affected by the cuts in US Government funding. The statement, led by the Forum and the European Association of Service providers for Persons with Disabilities and signed by 4 of the organisations affected, calls on the UE and donors to step up with both emergency and long-term funding.
Sen. Gillibrand: If Trump defunds Dept. of Ed, N.Y. students with disabilities will lose support (silive.com)
If President Donald Trump shuts down the United States Department of Education, it would have “disastrous consequences” for school children, especially the half million New York students with disabilities who rely on $1 billion in annual support for services, said U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand on Sunday.
Call your Senators to #StopRFK now! (autisticadvocacy.org)
We are deeply disappointed that Robert F. Kennedy (RFK) Jr.’s nomination has moved out of the Senate Finance Committee. Now, the whole Senate will vote on whether he becomes Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). We need your help to stop the Senate from putting this dangerous opponent of science in control of the nation’s health. Call your Senators NOW and ask them to vote AGAINST RFK Jr. for Secretary of the HHS.
The Agency of Access: Contemporary Disability Art & Institutional Critique (disability-visibility-newsletter.ghost.io)
Oh man, I love anything about disabled artists, disability art, and museums. Several years ago I had the pleasure of interviewing disabled curator and educator Amanda Cachia for my podcast and it was a really good conversation. Today I am pleased to offer 3 print or e-book copies of Dr. Cachia's new book, The Agency of Access: Contemporary Disability Art & Institutional Critique. Details below.
Locked out of decent housing, disabled residents in France struggle for dignity (france24.com)
For people with disabilities in France, finding accessible housing is particularly challenging. From emergency shelters unfit for mobility needs to social housing failing wheelchair users, the housing crisis hits disabled residents hardest and pushes many to the brink, as revealed in a new report by the Foundation for Housing the Disadvantaged.
Flu cases rise again, while COVID takes a back seat (npr.org)
It's an unusual winter for respiratory illnesses. The flu is peaking twice: once in early January and again in February. Meanwhile, it's the mildest COVID winter since the pandemic began.
That Kinda Black - Behind the Scenes with Lachi and Frank Nitty (youtube.com)
Lachi and her brother Frank Nitty sit down at Amazon Music Studios to discuss their collaboration on the final Mad Different track "That Kinda Black"! They dive into their experiences as first generation Black Americans, children of African immigrants, and how this song expresses the ways in which they feel different.
Honoring Black History Month by Celebrating Black Disabled Leaders (ablenews.com)
As we celebrate Black History Month, it is crucial to recognize and honor the legacies of Black leaders with disabilities who have paved the way for future generations. From Brad Lomax to Fannie Lou Hamer, these leaders have left a lasting impact on the disability rights movement. I had the privilege of interviewing three contemporary Black disabled leaders—Anita Cameron, Lachi, and Krystle Allen—who are continuing the work of their predecessors. Their stories remind us that the fight for disability rights is far from over and that we must continue to advocate for inclusion and accessibility for all.
All the Can't-Miss Red Carpet Looks From the 2025 Grammys (ca.news.yahoo.com)
The 67th Annual Grammy Awards are officially here! See all the must-see celebrity fashion looks and pictures from the 2025 Grammys red carpet.
Lachi on Her Work With the Recording Academy and Making the Grammys More Accessible | Grammys 2025 (hollywoodreporter.com)
Lachi chats with THR at the 2025 Grammys red carpet and talks about her work with the Grammys to be more accessible for all.
For the Advanced Trainer: Mew, Mewtwo, the DOM & Accessibility Tree (a11ynews.substack.com)
Your next adventure on the Victory Road towards becoming an Accessibility Champion awaits!
Unlocking Accessibility: User researchers share their approach to digital accessibility and recruiting people with disabilities (accessibility.blog.gov.uk)
We asked user researchers about their role in making digital services accessible, recruiting people with access needs, and sharing best practices for integrating accessibility into the user research process.
Handy online tool makes personalised assistive tech recommendations for people with sight loss (attoday.co.uk)
The charity Guide Dogs has launched the new Tech Selector on its website, which is an innovative tool that is designed to empower people with vision impairments by delivering personalised recommendations for assistive technology products and services tailored precisely to their needs.
Descriptive boost for visual accessibility (msn.com)
There are an estimated 280 million people in the world with debilitating levels of visual impairment. A new tool to empower them with a richer understanding of their surroundings is presented in the International Journal of Engineering Systems Modelling and Simulation.
Lenovo And Brazilian Innovation Hub CESAR Create Sign Language “Translator” For Hearing People With AI (forbes.com)
Described as a world-first, the patented AI technology is capable of visually identifying and contextualizing individual gestures
Saksham To Make It Easy For People With Disabilities (timesofindia.indiatimes.com)
New Delhi: To ensure that the election process is disabled friendly, the Election Commission has launched Saksham mobile application to enable people .
Innovative Accessibility Practices in Higher Education (abilitynet.org.uk)
At TechShare Pro 2024, AbilityNet's Accessibility Consultant, Lucy Woodcock hosted a panel on Teach Access, discussing innovative accessibility practices in higher education.
SUC-o-meter: A new way of measuring accessibility (a11ytalks.com)
I will be covering the new proposal for scoring an app's accessibility. I call it the SUC Score (stands for Sub-optimal Usability and Comprehension Score) and the benefits of the same in terms of pulling the accessibility considerations in large organizations from back-burner to regular backlog.
Mobile Accessibility Advent Calendar Part 2 (dev.to)
Welcome to part two of the Mobile Accessibility Advent Calendar! In this post we will cover days 9 through 16!
Why do autistic people seem weird? (youtube.com)
Why do autistic people seem weird to you? What is it about them and their behaviour that sets them apart from the neurotypical population, and makes them a target for bullies and narcissists?
'Chain yourself to the buses': The fight for disabled people's rights (youtube.com)
Disability services in the UK have been consistently cut after 14 years of Tory rule and austerity, but with the promise of change from a new Labour government, musician and activist John Kelly is concerned that politicians are still not listening to disabled voices and what they want.
Wheelchair users denied entry onto buses over 400 times in a year (mylondon.news)
Transport for London has admitted the figure is 'completely unacceptable'
The Accessibility of Self-Service Screens (accessiblelink.substack.com)
Improved service or even more barriers?