The Last Leg Promotes Disability Representation
I’m Raul Krauthausen the founder of SOZIALHELD*INNEN, an NPO and consultancy from Germany, focussing on Disability Mainstreaming. With this newsletter, I share hand-picked links from around the world.
If you enjoy this newsletter, please forward this email to your friends! 🙏
Questions? Tips? Suggestions?
Thank you,
Raul
We wrote a children’s book (in german)
Hand-picked news about inclusion, accessibilty and innovation
The Last Leg Promotes Disability Representation (disabilityhorizons.com)
'The Last Leg' champions positive disability representation on TV. Learn about its impact on public perceptions + upcoming ELECTION SPECIAL
Exploring Bruges: An Accessibility Report (enil.eu)
As the tourist season kicks off, what better way to start than a trip to Bruges? Known for its medieval charm and cultural richness, Bruges has long been a favorite destination. With our colleagues, we had the privilege of exploring this magical city, raising the question: is Bruges accessible for disabled people?
Disability & Accessibility Archives (translifeline.org)
Articles, books, blogs, data, and more on the topics of Abolition and Disability Justice.
Council Post: Ireland Web Accessibility: Everything You Need To Know (forbes.com)
Ireland has implemented one of the toughest laws yet to ensure website accessibility, serving as a model for future regulations in Europe.
Accessibility at T Will Finally Become a Reality (franklinobserver.town.news)
The Franklin/Foxboro Line will be among the first four Commuter Rail platforms to receive accessibility upgrades.
Accessibility overlays are not for disabled people (tempertemper.net)
Those little accessibility widgets you see on some websites are absolutely not for who you think they are.
Digital accessibility leadership in charities: A roadmap (charitydigital.org.uk)
How can charities become digital accessibility leaders? Here are the steps to take, according to AbilityNet research
Beyond Ramps: Accessibility as a Core Company Value (accessiblelink.substack.com)
Making Accessibility a Business Priority
Ten Red Flags in Every Disabled Person's Job Search (linkedin.com)
Embarking on a job search journey can be a daunting task for anyone. For disabled individuals, searching for employment presents a unique set of challenges.
Accelerating accessibility in the public sector (americancityandcounty.com)
Public sector leaders must adapt to delivering equitable digital accessibility experiences to their constituents.
Finance apps lagging behind when it comes to accessibility (ifamagazine.com)
New research has revealed that finance apps are falling short compared to other categories such as social networking, shopping and entertainment when it comes to accessibility.
Building Accessibility into Social Virtual Reality Experiences (equalentry.com)
Thomas Logan completed the Edstutia Instructor Certification in Extended Reality (ICXR). He spent several months learning how to make immersive and engaging presentations in virtual reality. In this presentation, Thomas demonstrates new accessibility options built into the Edstutia social virtual reality platform. He also reviews Equal Entry’s previous work in this space.
Finding an accessible house was frustrating, until this man came along (cbc.ca)
It's now mandatory for realtors in Nova Scotia to include accessibility information, such as turning radius and door size, on house listings. It's all thanks to advocate Gerry Post who had trouble finding an accessible home for his daughter.
For equal access, consider both physical and digital accessibility (route-fifty.com)
Features such as clear navigation, readable text and multimedia alternatives improve the customer experience for everyone, leading to higher levels of satisfaction, engagement and trust.
Deaf Diplomacy at State launches conversations on inclusion (statemag.lab.prod.getusinfo.com)
Deaf Diplomacy at State—an initiative addressing the practical and policy implications of meaningful inclusion of persons who are deaf or hard of hearing in diplomacy—launched with a hybrid event, April 15. The Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL); the Special Advisor on International Disability Rights (SAIDR); the Office of Accessibility and Accommodations (OAA); and the Secretary’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion (S/ODI) collaborated to create this initiative to communicate the value of including deaf and hard of hearing individuals in diplomacy, at home and abroad.
Where is your company on its accessibility journey? (thesafetymag.com)
Expert says 'clear correlation' between position on journey and 'disability confidence'
Travel is challenging for people with disabilities, but to me, it’s worth it (friedreichsataxianews.com)
Travel requires additional preparations and accommodations for people with disabilities, but columnist Jean Walsh says it's worth the effort.
Accessibility for All: ASL Fingerspelling Practice (youtube.com)
Created by the staff and students of Dante Alighieri Academy Catholic Secondary School, this video highlights a collaborative fingerspelling challenge, spelling words from A to Z, promoting National AccessAbility Week 2024.
Is your website blind to accessibility issues? Start with these easy tips (dynamicbusiness.com)
Let's delve into why digital accessibility is crucial and explore simple steps businesses can take to bridge the digital divide.
When an accessibility mapping app went viral, success came with a cost (marketplace.org)
Roll Mobility, an app for mapping accessibility infrastructure and linking disabled communities, went viral. Now the team needs to raise funds.
Netflix Originals With Disabled Actors And Characters (disabilityhorizons.com)
Netflix's commitment to disability representation shines through in new shows like "Bodies" and "Fool Me Once", showing authentic disabled actors' talent.
Championing Accessibility in Education for Blind and Visually Impaired Students (pointsoflight.org)
Meet Crystal Yang, who’s transforming education for blind and visually impaired students through her nonprofit, an accessible platform called Audemy.
Exploration of a method for insight into accessibility design flaws based on touch dynamics (nature.com)
Humanities and Social Sciences Communications - Exploration of a method for insight into accessibility design flaws based on touch dynamics
Accommodations vs Accessibility: Building Truly Inclusive Workplaces From Day One (iod.com)
Read about Accommodations vs Accessibility: Building Truly Inclusive Workplaces From Day One and more branch business news articles from the Institute of Directors.
Comment: How Wheelshare is revolutionising accessibility in public places for people with disabilities (thiis.co.uk)
Accessibility is a crucial aspect of modern life, yet it remains a challenge in many public spaces, according to Wheelshare.
Guest post: Post-pandemic concerts and live events are becoming increasing inaccessible for people with disabilities. (ajournalofmusicalthings.com)
Back in the summer of 2018, I got to see the Seattle rock band Foo Fighters at the Rogers Centre. Once I heard the band was coming to town, I got online
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act is a provincial law that ensures cities and towns are enforcing accessibility standards. But Greater Sudbury does not have an accessibility advisory committee and some citizens hope to change that.
Reform UK launches ‘contract’ without BSL or accessible version (liamodell.com)
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage unveiled his party’s version of a manifesto – called Our Contract With You – on Monday, at a press conference which came without British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation, despite the party previously pledging to provide access to Deaf signers.
Why accessibility should be a priority at Pride and beyond (gcn.ie)
With Pride Month in full swing, the importance of accessibility and inclusion for all members of our community must not be overlooked.
83% of Ukrainians Consider Accessibility a New Value for Society (president.gov.ua)
First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska, together with Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal and representatives of relevant ministries, took part in the presentation of the results of a public opinion survey on accessibility.
Blind voters not confident their votes will be secret (bbc.com)
New recommendations for disabled voters from Electoral Commission in Edinburgh aim to ensure people are given the support they need to cast their vote.
Canada Is Still Failing People With Disabilities (readthemaple.com)
Disabled people continue to experience worse employment outcomes and higher rates of poverty than those without disabilities.
Ensuring accessibility for everyone (thestar.com.my)
IMAGINE being in a wheelchair, on crutches or using a cane and needing to get somewhere quickly.
From vision to reality: accessible homes for everyone (insidehousing.co.uk)
Nick Apetroaie, chief executive of Habinteg, analyses the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities’ recent report on housing for disabled people
Motion at Ottawa accessibility committee recommends ending e-scooter program next year (ottawa.ctvnews.ca)
Ottawa's accessibility advisory committee will consider a motion that would ask the city not to bring back electric scooters next year, over concerns they pose a risk to pedestrians and people with disabilities.
Using 3D printing to remove accessibility barriers for Canadians (winnipeg.citynews.ca)
From seat belt release aids to bottle opening aids and nail clipper helpers, Canadians across the country are designing and 3D printing accessibility devices to help different communities live without barriers.
Thunder Bay Pride still not fully accessible for everyone, disability advocates say (cbc.ca)
Thunder Bay residents with disabilities have raised concerns over making the city's Pride Parade – among other Pride events – more accessible.
New wheelchair makes Yorkshire Dales waterfalls more accessible (bbc.com)
The wheelchair will make improve access to Asygarth Falls for people with mobility issues.
2024’s accessibility updates include Eye Tracking and Vocal Shortcuts, as Apple continues in their quest to create a more equitable world.
For blind people like Sarah, navigating period products can be stressful. But developers say they have a solution (abc.net.au)
Sarah Maculans independently navigates life with her white cane and guide dog Syd, but when it comes to buying sanitary products, she's forced to rely on others for help. Advocates say there are simple steps that companies can take to make products more accessible for people who are blind and vision impaired.
'This will make it much easier': N.S. leading the way in helping people find accessible homes (atlantic.ctvnews.ca)
The Nova Scotia Association of Realtors is launching several new measures to help potential homebuyers determine the accessibility and adaptability of a home to meet their mobility needs.
Inclusive cities: rebuilding Ukraine to be truly accessible (euneighbourseast.eu)
Today, during Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, the issue of inclusiveness of Ukrainian cities is, as we say in Ukraine, ‘on the agenda’. The war has not only left physical scars in cities, but has also led to significant changes in the social landscape. Since the beginning of the invasion, there have been noticeable changes in society’s attitude to inclusiveness, driven by various factors, from public opinion to urban planning initiatives.
More older Australians are wanting home care packages but are waiting longer for support (abc.net.au)
The number of Australians waiting for a home care package has increased to more than 68,000, with departmental officials conceding it is becoming harder to access the scheme.
Only 2.3% of UK chargers accessible for motorists with disabilities (motortrader.com)
Only 2.3% of the UK’s on-street EV chargers are adapted to be accessible for disabled motorists, according to Freedom of Information research by Vauxhall.
Blind architect student designs urban spaces accessible to all (fox41yakima.com)
By Lauren Beavis via SWNS A blind architect student uses her own experience of visual impairment to design urban spaces that are "more accessible for all." Emily Annakin, 23, has lost most of her sight through Stargardt disease - a form of juvenile macular degeneration which means she has no central vision.
Labour launches its manifesto with promises on disability and accessibility (disabilityrightsuk.org)
Today the Labour party launched its manifesto for the General Election. Whilst there was no BSL interpreter on the stage with Keir Starmer, one was visible when viewing online.
Ensuring the equal participation of people with disabilities in peace (dppa.un.org)
Involving people with disabilities in prevention and peacebuilding must be part of efforts to build sustainable peace. But physical, communication, institutional and attitudinal barriers continue to undermine their right to a seat at the negotiating table.
Disability inclusion: 22 billion reasons for you to act (prweek.com)
This Easterseals-hosted roundtable not only shined a light on the “why” of boosting your organization’s disability-inclusion efforts, but it offered myriad ideas to help with the “how.”
My daughter has a disability. This is the reaction from strangers I hate the most (today.com)
And please don’t tell me I’m blessed.
The Evolution of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ncsl.org)
The flexibility of the 1990 civil rights law allows it to evolve as disabilities such as long COVID-19 are recognized.
Past wrongs leave little confidence in the next chapter of Nebraska Developmental Disability programs (nebraskapublicmedia.org)
The Scarborough family is one of several Nebraska families concerned about Gov. Jim Pillen’s promise to eliminate an extensive waitlist for intellectual and developmental disability services. Those services include group homes and day programs. None of these are covered by Medicaid.
Plans to build more roads on public lands will help disabled Americans, Mike Lee says. Disabled hikers disagree. (sltrib.com)
While Lee contends the Outdoor Americans with Disabilities Act will make outdoor access more equitable, some disability advocates told The Salt Lake Tribune that the effort felt disingenuous and played into stereotypes they are trying to dispel.
How to Make Nature Accessible to Everyone in Pittsburgh (pittsburghmagazine.com)
Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy is revolutionizing Frick Park’s accessibility for visitors with disabilities with a new Outdoor Sensory Classroom and Nature Play Trail.
Blind Access-A-Ride users face challenges finding their rides (ny1.com)
Helen Murphy depends on the MTA’s paratransit program, Access-A-Ride, to get around, including to important doctor’s appointments.
Disneyland’s updated Disability Access Service program policy goes into effect (ktla.com)
Disneyland’s updated Disability Access Service program went into effect on Tuesday. Disneyland and Walt Disney World in Florida unveiled their updated DAS policy in April.
OCR finds pandemic-era Section 504 violations in Michigan (k12dive.com)
The Education Department said the state improperly limited compensatory services for students with disabilities during COVID-19 school closures.
Alaska did not provide accessible voting for those with disabilities, US Justice Department alleges (apnews.com)
The U.S. Justice Department alleges that the state of Alaska has violated the Americans with Disabilities Act by not providing accessible machines for in-person voting, selecting inaccessible polling places for elections and maintaining an inaccessible elections website.
DOJ Finds Alaska’s Elections Aren’t Accessible For Voters with Disabilities (democracydocket.com)
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) found that Alaska does not provide accessible voting measures for people with disabilities, violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Disabled Alaskans encountered barriers in recent elections, Justice Department investigation finds (alaskabeacon.com)
Problems with physcial acces to polling sites, inoperable voting machines and flaws in the state's website federal law, Justice says.
US justice department finds Alaska discriminated against disabled voters (jurist.org)
The US Department of Justice (DOJ) found Tuesday that the state of Alaska violated Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by failing to provide accessible voting facilities in the 2020 and 2022 elections.
Framingham has named a middle school auditorium for woman who promoted accessibility (eu.metrowestdailynews.com)
The newly named Karen Foran Dempsey Auditorium was unveiled during the public ceremony Thursday attended by Dempsey's family and former colleagues.
Brooklyn Park Hosts Twins Fantasy Camp for Adaptive Athletes (ccxmedia.org)
Young Twins fans got a home run of a deal in Brooklyn Park Friday morning at the third annual Twins' fantasy camp.
Disney fans say changes to disability program exclude many people who were previously covered (nbcnews.com)
Disney World, and soon Disneyland, will limit what kinds of disabilities are covered under its Disability Access Service.
How a 215-Year-Old UWS Church Continues to Flourish: Accessibility and a 'Desire to Serve' (westsiderag.com)
The Upper West Side church recently oversaw multiple upgrades and renovation projects within its landmarked building.
Dining out with disabilities in Montana no easy task; Advocates call for ADA compliance (ktvq.com)
Snacking on chips and salsa seems pretty simple, but if you’re a person with disabilities at a local establishment, and the seating isn’t in compliance, it’s a problem.
These disabled people tried to play by the rules. It cost them their federal benefits (npr.org)
A little-known Social Security program was supposed to lift people out of poverty. Sometimes it traps them there instead.
New ADA drop-off zones are coming to the Capitol, but barriers remain (rollcall.com)
“With all the security barriers, it’s not easy to get picked up and dropped off at the Capitol campus,” said former Rep. Jim Langevin.
Judge David Tatel on becoming the blind role model he never had (npr.org)
NPR's Ari Shapiro sits down with retired D.C. Circuit judge David Tatel to talk about his new memoir "Vision."
Paraplegic Athlete Summits Everyday Staircase to Raise Awareness for Inaccessibility (lbbonline.com)
Little Black Book, Rick Hansen Foundation campaign from VML Canada raises awareness of the urgent need for improved accessibility
How am I feeling ahead of my hysterectomy? It’s complicated (carlyfindlay.com.au)
I’m processing my feelings in the best way I know how – writing it down.
Disabled superheroes: how many can you name? (disabilityhorizons.com)
Frank Lambert tells us how he was inspired to introduce a disabled superhero to the world of fiction and children’s books.
Instructor's passion makes diving accessible for disabled duo (bbc.com)
An instructor is inspiring two men to achieve their dream of scuba diving.
What’s wrong with VPATs? (briandeconinck.com)
Personal website and portfolio for Brian DeConinck, a digital accessibility specialist.
What silence says (disabilitydebrief.org)
Insights from recent academic and policy research
Read U of T’s Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) Report 2023 (people.utoronto.ca)
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) Report 2023 shares work being done across the tri-campus to enhance accessibility within our community.
Second Edition of Disability Law and Policy Released for the Upcoming 34th Anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act (news.syr.edu)
Burton Blatt Institute Chairman and University Professor Peter Blanck’s 2nd edition of “Disability Law and Policy” was released in honor of the 34th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). “Disability Law and Policy provides an overview of the themes and insights in disability law. It is a compelling compendium of stories about how our legal system has responded to the needs of impacted individuals.
Celebrating 25 years: NCHPAD recognizes milestone achievements in adaptive health promotion (uab.edu)
The NCHPAD has had a nationwide impact promoting the health, wellness and inclusion of people with disabilities into all areas of life.
New Director Brings Disability Law Expertise and Lived Experience to Disability Law and Policy Program (news.syr.edu)
Katherine Macfarlane, a leading expert on disability law, civil procedure and civil rights litigation, joined the College of Law last summer to lead the groundbreaking Disability Law and Policy (DLPP) program. The program was founded and led by Professor Emerita Arlene Kanter, who retired in June after 35 years of teaching.
Updating your course materials: How to create an accessible document (news.umanitoba.ca)
Part of accessibility is the practice of making documents readable and usable by everyone, allowing variously abled people to access the information.
All-terrain wheelchair makes Troy University arboretum accessible for all (today.troy.edu)
Troy University arboretum’s more than 10 miles of walking trails are now fully accessible to the public, thanks to the donation of an all-terrain wheelchair courtesy of the Hank Poore Foundation.
Honor Disability Advocates and Accessibility Leaders (hr.umich.edu)
Nominations sought for the 2024 James T. Neubacher Award.
Mount Wachusett greenhouse now accessible to students with disabilities: how they did it (eu.thegardnernews.com)
A former Mount Wachusett Community College student, Elric Murphy, built three raised beds so students with mobility aids can garden at the school.
USU set to receive a federal grant to help more people with disabilities nationwide (ksltv.com)
Utah State University will be creating a new program to help more people affected by disabilities get the tools they need to learn.
‘Third Thumb’ could change accessibility for humans: Cambridge study (msn.com)
Would you use a third thumb?
GAAD 2024 - A3: ADA Title II and you - Keith Hays and Khaled Musa (mediaspace.umn.edu)
Public universities are facing increasing legal scrutiny, and the recent updates to ADA Title II are no exception. In this session we will share an overview of the new ADA Title II requirements and invite discussion on how these new requirements may necessitate a transformation of digital accessibility compliance initiatives.
Digital Accessibility Buff Award (colorado.edu)
The Digital Accessibility Buff Award honors CU Boulder students, staff, and faculty who have demonstrated noteworthy accessibility practices and fostered an inclusive digital environment for individuals with disabilities. The decision committee looks for nominees whose work aligns with the DAO mission and inspires others to create a more inclusive environment at CU Boulder by significantly increasing awareness of digital accessibility on campus.
Four Principles for Accessibility (help.commons.gc.cuny.edu)
WCAG’s four principles for accessibility found in WCAG’s Quick Reference Guide. They are grouped under Perceivable, Operable, Understandable and Robust. Read below for a quick overview of the guidelines: Perceivable This principle ensures there are alternative ways of accessing content.
Why Protecting Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Is a National Imperative (civilrights.org)
Today, race-based barriers to wage equality, credit access, and educational opportunity continue to hinder economic progress.
Ascott and SG Enable sign partnership to elevate disability inclusion and accessibility standards in the hospitality industry (capitaland.com)
Partnership will lead to Singapore’s industry-first comprehensive playbook with SG Enable to advance Ascott’s disability inclusion efforts across its global portfolio.
Deaf Action endorses ClearConnect for incorporating pink noise to revolutionise accessibility for hearing aid users (businessupnorth.co.uk)
Safety systems specialist Ardent is proud to announce that its innovative induction hearing loop system, ClearConnect, has received endorsement from the charity Deaf Action for the incorporation of pink noise, setting a new standard in accessibility for individuals who are hard of hearing.
The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation Expands 'Outdoors for Everyone' Initiative to Address Water Accessibility (prnewswire.com)
As Summer Begins, 'Outdoors for Everyone' Provides Water Accessibility Resources for Those Living with Paralysis and Other Disabilities.
Bracewell Stirling wins ‘Excellence in Accessibility & Inclusion’ award for Alloa development (scottishhousingnews.com)
Architectural practice Bracewell Stirling Consulting has won the ‘Excellence in Accessibility & Inclusion’ award at the 2024 Scottish Home Awards.
SAAACAM partners with tech company instituting low-vision accessibility tool at museum (ksat.com)
The San Antonio African American Community Archive and Museum (SAAACAM) has launched a partnership to improve user accessibility at its museum for those who are visually impaired.
Canadian Paralympic Committee unveils new brand, website, and fan-focused newsletter (sirc.ca)
The Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) is thrilled to announce the launch of its revitalized brand, a newly redesigned website, and the introduction of CPC’s first-ever fan-focused newsletter CAN Crew. These exciting developments mark a significant milestone in CPC’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and vibrant Paralympic community in Canada. The new brand embodies CPC’s dedication to creating a space for greatness by removing barriers and championing a diverse and inclusive world.
Designing a More Inclusive Web: DataDome’s Response Page Accessibility Upgrades (securityboulevard.com)
DataDome's commitment to accessibility extends to every facet of our business. Learn how we've updated our response pages to meet the WCAG 2.2 AA standards.
Clark Planetarium introduces 'sensory bags' and lower prices to enhance accessibility (ksltv.com)
The Clark Planetarium is taking steps to make its displays more accessible to all individuals.
Direct Access opens two new accessibility consultancy studios in London and Dublin (thiis.co.uk)
Direct Access, international accessibility consultants, announced the opening of two new studios in London and Dublin.
How a local charity brings accessibility to the forefront with Join Together Festival (charitytoday.co.uk)
Here's how the local charity has improved accessibility for those with additional needs, bringing together the local community on Saturday, 6 July in Cheadle.
Wheelchair that can handle rough terrain now available at Big Creek State Park (eu.desmoinesregister.com)
In an effort to improve accessibility, an Action Trackchair has been added to Big Creek State Park.
MBTA Wins $67 Million Federal Grant To Improve Green Line Accessibility (wbznewsradio.iheart.com)
The MBTA was granted $67 million from the federal government to improve accessibility of ground-level stops on the B and C branches of the Green Line.
Sunflower Accessibility Program featured at O’Hare and Midway Airports (choosechicago.com)
Travelers with invisible disabilities passing through O’Hare and Midway International Airports can now discreetly signal that they need assistance thanks to a new Chicago Department of Aviation partnership that helps create more accessible and inclusive spaces.
Organization Helps Improve Accessibility Countywide (weeklyvillager.com)
The Portage County Board of Developmental Disabilities (Portage DD) mission is to assist and support individuals in developing their abilities through advocacy, inclusion, and empowerment.
Lantern Parade announces new enhanced accessibility features for 2024 (lismoreapp.com.au)
One of Lismore's 'must do' events is only eight (8) days away. The much-anticipated Lismore Lantern Parade is set to light up the CBD with its mesmerising lantern parade, Fiery Finale performance and vibrant display of community spirit.
B.C. government launching consultation on new accessibility standards (pentictonwesternnews.com)
Social development minister opens Inclusion B.C. conference in Nanaimo
Campion Homes recognised for accessibility at Scottish Home Awards (scottishconstructionnow.com)
A new award for Excellence in Accessibility and Inclusion, which was sponsored by Horizon Housing, was presented to Fife homebuilder Campion Homes in partnership with Kingdom Housing Association at the Scottish Home Awards last week.
DCR Unveils Accessible Summer Recreation Opportunities (mass.gov)
From Kayaking to Golfing, DCR Offers a Wide Range of Activities for People of All Abilities
City of Ottawa Municipal Accessibility Plan Consultations (baywardbulletin.ca)
The City of Ottawa’s Municipal Accessibility Plan (COMAP) is a multi-year strategy that demonstrates the City’s commitment to making accessibility a part of everyday business, for residents, visitors, and staff. This plan, which is a requirement under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA, 2005), seeks to inform the City about gaps and barriers that currently exist for people with disabilities, whether permanent, temporary, visible or invisible, as they use City programs, services and facilities.
All Aboard! Accessible design on VIA Rail’s new fleet (canada.ca)
In 2022, VIA Rail published its first Accessibility Plan, in keeping with requirements set forth by the Accessible Canada Act. In the plan, VIA acknowledges the barriers faced by clients with disabilities and outlines a series of actions that will help create a more welcoming, comfortable, and dignified experience for all its passengers. While developing the plan was a new requirement, Via had already been giving serious thought to accessibility for several years.
Maryland launches web accessibility training program (statescoop.com)
Maryland officials have announced the accessibility officer initiative, aimed at training state employees on how to make digital services accessible to people with disabilities.
Voiceitt Launches Chrome Extension, Empowering People with Speech Disabilities to Engage with the Digital World, by Voice (finance.yahoo.com)
Inclusive voice tech enables content creation and communication across a wide range of websites, expanding digital inclusion.
Tackling accessibility: How Microsoft and ServiceNow are building more accessible and inclusive experiences (microsoft.com)
Learn how we and ServiceNow collaborated to transform our approach to accessibility internally at Microsoft.
Key of Sight strikes the right chord by providing accessible and inclusive music education (broadview.org)
Grade 11 student founded program to help visually impaired people pursue their musical passions.
Control Center’s New Power Button In iOS 18 Is More Proof That Accessibility Abounds (forbes.com)
9to5 Mac’s Ryan Christoffel published a story earlier this week about a subtle but significant change in iOS 18: Apple’s revamped Control Center sports a dedicated Power button.
Kantrell Betancourt Talks New Midjourney Book And AI As Assistive Tech In Interview (forbes.com)
Betancourt said Midjourney is trying its best to make its platform more accessible to more people, telling me the company has an alpha program wherein users can create directly via the website instead of needing to log into Discord.
David’s Chair helps make Mount Pisgah more accessible for visitors with disabilities (opb.org)
David’s Chair is an electric all-terrain track chair that can ride over trails, on snow, even on beaches.
Inside Befree’s Mission To Make Getting Dressed More Accessible To Every Person (forbes.com)
In an interview with me conducted via videoconference, Befree co-founders Nicole Puzzo and Joanne DiCamillo explained the company’s origin story stems from Puzzo’s lived experiences caring for her teenage daughter.
Microsoft develops accessibility features with feedback from people with disabilities (windowsreport.com)
Microsoft has been releasing dozens of features that focus on accessibility in platforms such as Teams, or Windows. Here's how it does it.
AI-Powered Robot Guide Dogs Promote Accessibility for Visually Impaired People (intelligentliving.co)
Addressing the global guide dog shortage, AI-powered robot guide dogs enhance the lives of visually impaired with advanced navigation and emotional support.
Apple’s AirPods are being upgraded with powerful accessibility features (msn.com)
Apple’s adding a ‘seamless hands-free experience’ to control Siri with AirPods.
AXS announces collaboration to improve accessible ticketing (theticketingbusiness.com)
Ticketing platform AXS has collaborated with Nimbus Disability, a social enterprise company run by disabled people to help improve accessibility.
Importance of accessibility, inclusion for social advancement (vanguardngr.com)
Across the world, an estimated 1.3 billion people experience significant disability. This represents 16 per cent of the world’s population, or one in six of us, according to the World Health Organisation, WHO. This shows that there are more people with disabilities than it is imagined, yet there is little awareness about their lived experience which has led to events of discrimination.
AXS rolls out new tech to improve accessible ticketing (accessaa.co.uk)
AEG-owned ticketing operation AXS has partnered with Nimbus Disability, the social enterprise company run by disabled people for disabled people, to introduce an accessible card for customers.
New York Magazine lauds Vision Pro’s accessibility (sixcolors.com)
Leland describes the joy a low-vision user finds with the headset, viewing windows the size of a garden shed, or not having to crane one’s to see a desk-mounted monitor. But he isn’t starry-eyed about Vision Pro, pointing out ways the people he profiled have struggled – sometimes a little, sometimes a lot – with the device. He was also treated to the Apple Park experience, and came away impressed by what he saw and heard from the accessibility team there.
Learn about disability-owned Chicago businesses (choosechicago.com)
Planning for a meeting or event in Chicago? Be sure to keep accessibility and inclusion in mind when choosing local vendors.
The Accessible Group (theaccessiblegroup.com)
The Accessible Group Submit your accessible property, service business or experience for listing on Accessible Accommodation or Accessible Experiences. The Accessible Group Submit your accessible property, service business or experience for listing on Accessible Accommodation or Accessible Experiences.
Business Leaders Creating Accessible Employment (accessibleemployers.ca)
Learn about the benefits of building an accessible and inclusive workplace. Join the Community of Accessible Employers today.
Accessible environments (arup.com)
Inclusive design aims to produce environments that are accessible and usable by everyone. From wayfinding to lighting, layout to operations, policy and guidance to application in the built environment, we take time to consider the needs of today’s users and also how those needs might evolve over the lifetime of a building or space.
Video game creators are working to make games more accessible for disabled people (npr.org)
In an excerpt from NPR's The Sunday Story podcast, we look at how video game companies are adding features to make their products easier to use by people with disabilities.
Slime Heroes Showcases Story, Accessibility Features, and More in 2 New Videos (rpgfan.com)
A couple months ago, we shared our impressions of Slime Heroes, a cute Souls-like action RPG coming soon from developer Pancake Games and publisher Whitethorn
What is Accessibility in Web Development? Best Practices for Web Accessibility (freecodecamp.org)
Everyone should be able to use technology, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. An accessible website or platform attracts a broader audience and has a high chance of achieving user retention. This article will discuss the importance of accessibility, best practices for accessibility in frontend web development, and their implementations.
Harmonium: The Musical Devs Talk Creating a Lyrical, Accessible, Deaf Culture-Inspired World (gamerant.com)
The team behind upcoming game Harmonium: The Musical speaks to Game Rant about creating the game's world, narrative, characters, puzzles, and more.
Magical Delicacy video details the game's accessibility features (gonintendo.com)
A magical experience for all
How to write text descriptions (alt text) in BBC News articles (bbc.co.uk)
How to write inclusive and accessible text descriptions for all types of images.
How to add and write captions for YouTube videos (youtube.com)
Learn the four different ways to add captions to your videos including uploading a file, auto-sync, typing manually, and automatic captions.
New Era of Gaming Accessibility with AI (thelivenagpur.com)
The online games industry is experiencing a transformative shift with the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This new era of gaming accessibility makes games more inclusive and personalised, changing how players engage with their favourite titles. From enhancing game development to creating more competent opponents, AI is redefining the gaming landscape. Popular skill-based real money games like RummyPrime rummy app are significantly improving, mainly through advanced technology and machine learning/AI for fraud detection and collusion on the player tables.
Accessibility in gaming (bcs.org)
Accessibility is a hot button topic, tying directly into issues of diversity and inclusivity — but how does it play into gaming? Steve Andrews CITP MBCS reflects on the progress and pitfalls of accessible gaming features and their future in the industry.
The Squeaky Wheel: Canada debuts Monday (youtube.com)
Based on Steven Verdile’s popular web publication The Squeaky Wheel, The Squeaky Wheel: Canada is an eight-episode satirical, half-hour news format which pokes fun at the ableist society people with disabilities face every day.
Museum of Austerity (youtube.com)
Enter into a new experience of storytelling and witness the human stories of Austerity Britain in this arresting mixed reality installation.
What Does Disability Justice Require of Antimicrobial Stewardship? (journalofethics.ama-assn.org)
Many marginalized patients with disabilities reside in nursing homes and are more susceptible to antibiotic under- and overtreatment.
Important Program For Covid Patients Closes, Leaving Many Stranded (forbes.com)
Home Test to Treat program is closing April 16. Patients have limited options for testing and getting treatment with Paxlovid.
A Long COVID Definition (nap.nationalacademies.org)
A Chronic, Systemic Disease State with Profound Consequences.
Make Neurodiversity Boring (bostonreview.net)
Like Robert Chapman, I worry that neurodiversity has not lived up to its promise. I too am frustrated that the word has in some circles come to denote employer initiatives to hire STEM-oriented autistic people alone. Such a narrow vision is a far cry from what Jim Sinclair, the movement’s founder, intended; Sinclair called for a neurodiversity that included all autistic people—and many with other neurological disabilities as well. A movement only about those with “special abilities” betrays Sinclair, Mel Baggs, and others without which neurodiversity would not exist.
Museum of Austerity (bristololdvic.org.uk)
In 2016, the UN found that “grave and systemic violations” of the rights of disabled people were taking place throughout the UK. Wearing a mixed reality headset, you will enter a striking, holographic gallery that lays bare the consequences when state safety nets fail.
This Writer’s 800-Square-Foot LA Apartment Puts Accessibility First (architecturaldigest.com)
After years of covering design, Kelly Dawson used her experience to curate her LA rental
Home Sweet Home: Behind the scenes at the theatre project led by people with disabilities (irishexaminer.com)
Suisha Inclusive Arts’ ten-year anniversary production at Cork Midsummer Festival tackles issues of housing, independent living and disability rights head on, writes Ellie O’Byrne
the shape of the pocket (sarahendren.substack.com)
subtlety, insight, and beauty drive a whole world of adaptive fashion
Fashion, Disability, and Co-design (bloomsbury.com)
Constricting styles and limited clothing choices can restrict a person with a disability from fully participating in social communities, employment and gatherings that have an unspoken dress code. Design has the power to change this.
Exploring Disability Inclusion in the Arts and Entertainment Industry (womensenews.org)
To create a truly inclusive industry, it is essential to ensure that disabled voices are heard at all levels - from production to executive leadership.
Media Accessibility for all Canadians (ami.ca)
AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through the offering of relevant original content.
Jayapal, Gillibrand, Luján Introduce Legislation to Protect Domestic Workers (jayapal.house.gov)
U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) joined U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) today to re-introduce the National Domestic Workers Bill of Rights. The groundbreaking legislation will finally extend common workplace rights and protections to the 2.2 million domestic workers in the United States, who are currently excluded from the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and other key labor and safety laws that the majority of the workforce relies on. The legislation would also improve job quality by ensuring paid sick days, written agreements, and other benefits.
Lawyer Spotlight: Britney Wilson (americanbar.org)
A spotlight interview with Britney Wilson. Ms. Wilson is Associate Professor of Law and the Founding Director of the Civil Rights and Disability Justice Clinic at New York Law School.
An Evening of Access Magic (lincolncenter.org)
Join us on the occasion of Disability Pride Month to explore the magical possibilities of access. The Silent Disco will bring us together to share in the manifold dimensions of disability-centric nightlife with ASL song- signing, creative captioning, choreographic offerings, access doula-ing, and music. Together, we’ll open a portal to an ecology where access is a coordinating principle for sharing space, contemplation, and joy.
Reframed: Disability Aesthetics and Institutional Change in the Visual Arts (eventbrite.co.uk)
Join us for a panel discussion about disability in the visual arts featuring artists, curators and arts professionals from across the world.
Apple Has Created ‘Apple Intelligence’ Unto Its Own Image, Accessibility Included (forbes.com)
Federighi said Apple aspires to give its users “agency and autonomy” in how they use artificial intelligence and the utility they derive from it.
An Evening with Anita Cameron (virginiatech.zoom.us)
Anita Cameron is a disability justice activist who has been involved in social change activism and community organizing for 42 years. She's been arrested 140 times fighting for disability rights with ADAPT and involved with social justice work in healthcare, transportation, voting rights, emergency preparedness, representation, and LGBTQIA2S+ nondiscrimination. As a Black Disabled Lesbian, Anita’s unique intersectional perspective allows them to promote understanding among different groups of disenfranchised people.
Down syndrome population will see a clinical trial of new Alzheimer’s drug (lumindidsc.org)
Major pharmaceutical company announces Down syndrome population will see a clinical trial of new Alzheimer’s drug
Once praised, settlement to help sickened BP oil spill workers leaves most with nearly nothing (apnews.com)
Thousands of ordinary people who helped clean up after the 2010 BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico say they got sick.
Supplemental Security Income rules can limit the people the program is meant to help (npr.org)
Fifty-one years ago, Washington created a daring program to fight poverty. But instead of lifting people, it now traps them in poverty.
Couples say they can't get married because of this government program's outdated rules (npr.org)
Social Security's SSI program for people with disabilities requires couples to have no more than $3,000 in assets
Alice Wong on Being Told She Wouldn’t Live to Adulthood (youtube.com)
Founder and Director of the Disability Visibility Project Alice Wong talks about challenging disability stereotypes and her vision for a world where disabled people aren’t siloed. Interview recorded Oct. 26, 2023.
Access Living (accessliving.org)
A center of service, advocacy, and social change for people with all kinds of disabilities led and run by people with disabilities.
With legislative support, state’s disabled community hopes to dodge cuts to home help program (bostonglobe.com)
Wins in the Legislature have eased fears about proposed eligibility restrictions to the home care program.
Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity (facebook.com)
A gold lion, but above all the entire industry present paid tribute to Madison Tevlin with a standing ovation.
Access Ideas and Insights: The Future of Disability Storytelling (aarts.net.au)
Come to Sydney Theatre Company or join online for our upcoming Access Ideas and Insights panel exploring 'The Future of Disability Storytelling'. This exciting panel discussion will delve into exciting possibilities for the future of disability storytelling across a diverse range of arts practices and genres as we delve into narrative, agency, identity, technologies and more. Learn from Dan Daw (producer and performer), Michelle Cheng (Head of Creative Diversity, SBS Television and Online Content division) and Fiona Murphy (award-winning writer, editor and arts critic). This event will be MC'd by award-winning theatre director and film maker Anthea Williams.
New support guides launched for adults with disabilities (disabilityinsider.com)
The Department of Health has launched two new guides to support adults with sensory disabilities in Northern Ireland.
Ascott and SG Enable partner to promote disability inclusion in Singapore's hospitality sector (disabilityinsider.com)
The Ascott Limited, CapitaLand Investment’s lodging business unit on June 20, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with SG Enable to promote disability inclusion and set new accessibility standards in the hospitality sector.
US social security will no longer deny disability claims based on ability to work outdated jobs (theguardian.com)
Agency used list which included jobs such as nut sorter and microfilm processor and has not been updated since 1991
The Ride Ahead (jfi.org)
Turning 21 and disabled, Samuel Habib wants to date, leave home, go to college. Can a community of disability activist rebels help him follow his dreams?
European Accessibility Act: One year to go - are you ready? (linkedin.com)
Join us on Wednesday 3 July at 1pm BST for a free webinar featuring industry experts to learn about The European Accessibility Act (EAA). The EAA’s implementation deadline approaches on June 28, 2025.
DOJ says Utah violates civil rights by 'segregating' adults with intellectual disabilities (ksl.com)
Utah is in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act by "segregating" adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in jobs that offer limited interaction and giving them "little choice in how to spend their time," according to a report from the U.S. Department of Justice.
12 Shows and Movies That Feature Disability (netflix.com)
In honor of Global Accessibility Awareness Day.
Marriott Agrees To Better Accommodate Guests With Disabilities (disabilityscoop.com)
One of the world's largest hotel chains is agreeing to make big changes after federal prosecutors said that people with disabilities faced numerous barriers reserving rooms.
Concert Accessibility: Challenges and Opportunities (respectability.org)
It is possible to have a well-rounded concert experience as a disabled guest with the right accommodations in place.
In detail: 1.4.11 Non-Text Contrast (User Interface Components) (yatil.net)
The Web Content Accessibility Guideline’s (WCAG) Success Criterion 1.4.11 Non-Text Contrast is one of the harder to understand requirements. Here’s a deep-dive into the details of it, including practical examples, concerning only its “User Interface Components” section.
DOJ finds Utah in violation of Federal Civil Rights Law for segregating persons with disabilities (disabilityinsider.com)
The Justice Department announced its findings that Utah is violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by unnecessarily segregating youth and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) during the day, instead of helping them find work and spend their days in their communities.
AI brain map could help demystify Alzheimer’s and autism (theguardian.com)
Florida scientists use AI and virtual reality to create 3D renderings of brain formations of mice, whose neuron types are like humans’
How I transformed from thinking my brain was broken to realizing I had a superpower (buttondown.email)
I am a quintessential “thin-slicer,” a personality trait that Malcolm Gladwell thoroughly explored in his book, Blink.
How Colleges have Ruined the College Admission Process for Parents (buttondown.email)
I woke up early on Veterans’ Day. I had done a lot of exercises (well, for me anyways) on Sunday afternoon and gone to sleep early. My high school senior had the day off, so they were sleeping in.
How business FOMO is the enemy of good accessibility (buttondown.email)
FOMO is often exacerbated by posts seen by individuals on their friend’s social media feeds.
Hiring an Accessibility Tester? Here is an approach that you should consider (buttondown.email)
A former team member reached out in November, 2018. He was disappointed because he didn’t get an accessibility testing contract that frankly, he was overqualified for. When I asked what went wrong, he said “they wanted someone who knew more about JAWS.”
High Impact Accessibility on a Budget (buttondown.email)
It is easy to spend a lot of money on accessibility. Consulting companies that specialize in accessibility have a high hourly rate, and automated accessibility tools can run tens of thousands of dollars (or more) annually. Employees are typically expensive too, especially in the SF Bay Area where I am based.
Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour at Anfield Stadium (lifeofablindgirl.com)
I was lucky enough to see Taylor Swift on her Eras Tour in Liverpool. Here’s my experience as a blind fan.
Taylor Swift The Eras Tour concert experience (myblurredworld.com)
It's been a long time coming but The Eras Tour finally arrived on UK-shores. Here's my expereince from the 100th show in Liverpool.
ANJALI VYAS - Self-Advocate on Disability Rights (axschat.com)
A Chemical Engineer by qualification & an IELTS Trainer by profession, Anjali Vyas from Maharashtra, India is a person with MS (Multiple Sclerosis), an invisible disability. She is the Co-Founder of Believe in the Invisible, a platform dedicated to advocating for people with invisible disabilities & their communities through storytelling. She is also an MS patient Advocate and the Hon. Joint Secretary of MSSI (Multiple Sclerosis Society of India) Pune.
Budget cuts devastate stroke survivors in New South Wales (disabilityinsider.com)
Stroke Foundation is calling the New South Wales Government to urgently reverse its decision not to fund vital stroke awareness and recovery programs in this year’s 2024-25 state budget.
Bipartisan legislation introduced in Congress to fund Community Mental Health Programs (disabilityinsider.com)
New legislation introduced in the U.S. House aims to address the nation's critical shortfall in mental health providers by expanding access to behavioral health care services in underserved communities while employing and creating career paths for community members.
Beyond 6 Seconds: Autistic and Black – with Kala Allen Omeiza (sites.libsyn.com)
Kala Allen Omeiza is a prolific author at the intersection of race, culture, and autism. Her latest book, "Autistic and Black: Our Experiences of Growth, Progress, and Empowerment," has received widespread acclaim for its in-depth exploration of the unique challenges and triumphs faced by autistic individuals of minority backgrounds. She has also worked on various research projects on neurodiversity and mental health at Harvard, Duke, Harvard Medical, and as a US Fulbright scholar in Nigeria. She is a graduate of Miami University and a masters graduate of Psychological Research from the University of Oxford. During this episode, Kala discusses: What inspired her to write “Autistic and Black” and share the experiences of Black autistic people across the African diaspora.
Motability Scheme’s free Big Event makes pit stop in Exeter (ablemagazine.co.uk)
The Big Event, Exeter is returning to Westpoint later this month, and for the first time, the motoring show is now across two days on, Friday 28 and Saturday 29 June 2024.
In a first-of-its-kind event held May 13-14, 2024, people with speech-related disabilities from around the U.S. told senior federal officials and researchers how future research dollars should be prioritized.
Article on Accessible Kitchen Design in OT Today Magazine (adamthomasconsultancy.com)
Adam Thomas contributes an article on Accessible Design in OT Today Magazine, June 2024 edition.
New Study Reveals Early Brain Development Differences in Autism, Opening Path for Future Treatments (assistivetechnologyblog.com)
Discover how groundbreaking research on brain development in the womb could lead to new autism treatments.
Female leaders are better at ensuring people with disabilities aren’t excluded (buttondown.email)
In the article “What Do Countries With The Best Coronavirus Responses Have In Common? Women Leaders,” the female leaders of Denmark, Iceland, Germany, Taiwan, New Zealand, Norway, and Finland were hailed for their decisiveness in locking down their respective countries, their use of technology to track COVID cases, and their direct communications with children.
Four Corporate Disability Equity Truths (buttondown.email)
People with disabilities do not have access to equal business opportunities. If you don’t believe that, I ask you to look at Exhibits 1 and 2 — the unemployment rates for people with disabilities; both pre and post-pandemic which took a bad situation and made it vastly worse.
Getting a product accessible is not enough (buttondown.email)
To accomplish continued accessibility, organizations need to implement processes and systems that can objectively measure whether the correct steps have been taken to retain product experience accessibility over time. The W3C Accessibility Maturity Model (AMM) includes employee-facing communications, training, documentation, and tools.
Groups that don’t care about people with disabilities (buttondown.email)
You are in the “we will get to you eventually” group because you have “special needs” and aren’t valuable enough to be included with everyone else
Got sued over website accessibility? (buttondown.email)
This is the second part of an article series concerning what happens to an organization when they get sued over website inaccessibility. The first part, called ADA lawsuit costs is WAY more than just the settlement, is here.
Got sued under the ADA for inaccessibility? (buttondown.email)
There have been many, many articles about accessibility and lawsuits. There have been over 7500 of them filed in the last three years, according to a Usablenet.com report. “Avoid getting sued,” vendors scream in sponsored ads when you search on Google for anything related to W3C or accessibility.
Handling accessibility demand letters (buttondown.email)
This must be the “demand letter” season. Maybe because all the lawyers are working from home due to COVID-19 with courthouses being closed? I’ve had multiple people reach out to me this week asking me how to respond. Remember this is NOT legal advice. But this is what I do.
How to... Improve Accessible Parking (accessiblelink.substack.com)
It's not just about painting lines on the ground.
Having a VPAT is not the same thing as being accessible (buttondown.email)
I try to write thoughtful, sometimes geeky articles about the esoteric and subtle nature of accessibility. But sometimes, you gotta start at the beginning
HARO: Every publicity person’s low-budget best friend (buttondown.email)
Ever wondered where reporters get their sources from and how to be one? I can’t count how many times I’ve heard on radio or multimedia someone talking about *MY* area of expertise who really doesn’t have a clue. I used to uselessly shout at my computer or car radio. But, for the last two years, I have belonged to HARO — “Help A Reporter Out.”
Mi-Spend: Making Independent Spending More Accessible (criplife.co.uk)
Mi-Spend has created a safe and secure way for you to access your money with independence. It has a pre-paid card designed for people with additional needs.
New Belfast ‘Hub’ will offer specialist support and activities for disabled people and their families (ablemagazine.co.uk)
The disability charity, Sense, has announced that it will open a major new centre in Belfast next year, offering specialist support and services to people with complex disabilities and their families.
Giving a Name, and Dignity, to a Disability (nytimes.com)
Society has long struggled to find the proper terminology for people with intellectual disability.
Creating Safe and Brave Spaces (coe.int)
The aim is to empower young people to create safe(r), brave(r) and inclusive societies where intersectional experiences are lived and valued through multi-faceted respect for diversity. Furthermore, it will encourage participants from different backgrounds and diverse personal experiences to support underrepresented communities in claiming, exercising, and defending their rights through active participation.
The Disability Briefing, ENIL's talk-show (youtube.com)
In this episode of the Disability Briefing, we'll tell you everything you need to know regarding the European elections, political participation of Disabled People, the Freedom Drive (our key event) and much more.
Pedaling for Change - On Our Terms (buzzsprout.com)
In this episode of "On Our Terms," host Kamil Goungor sits down with Max Thurston, a PhD researcher and adventure cyclist from Santa Fe, New Mexico, now residing in Helsinki, Finland. Max shares his ambitious plan to cycle from Helsinki to Cape Town, South Africa, to promote and raise awareness for disability rights and independent living. Max discusses his personal journey, the inspiration behind his project, and his collaboration with ENIL.
ENIL-WIN COSP side event (youtube.com)
Centers for Independent Living in International Cooperation.
Campaign for the recognition of supported decision making in cross-border situations (enil.eu)
ENIL has launched a lobby campaign in favour of supported decision making. The reason is a regulation on the protection of vulnerable adults in cross-border situations which was proposed by the European Commission. The regulation foresees the automatic recognition of deprivations of legal capacity when adults who are perceived to be vulnerable such as disabled and older people, move or are moved to other countries. Also orders to place someone in an institution are supposed to receive automatic recognition. The draft regulation also includes the enforcement across-borders. The proposed regulation is currently discussed in the EU Council.
Registration is Open for the OII Europe Online Community Event and Public Conference 2024 (oiieurope.org)
OII Europe is happy to announce the registration for the Online Community Event and Public Conference 2024. This year’s event will be held on September 27th-29th, 2024 on zoom platform, and like the previous community events consists of a one-day public conference and a two-day closed community event.
Reframed: Disability Aesthetics and Institutional Change in the Visual Arts (eventbrite.co.uk)
Join us for a panel discussion about disability in the visual arts featuring artists, curators and arts professionals from across the world.
Disability over-confident (disabilitydebrief.org)
Commitments to inclusion not being put into practice
When Legislation Is Not Enough: The Adverse Environment for Independent Living in Hungary (scienceopen.com)
The history of disability policies in Hungary is one of legal progress since the 1990s and EU-funded investments since 2004, yet mixed outcomes for disabled people. To date this paradox remains unexplored, especially how it plays out in the lived experiences of disabled people and their families. This paper aims to fill this knowledge-gap by exploring disabled people’s experiences of independent living over the past three decades in Hungary. Based upon 53 life course interviews – 34 with disabled people and 19 with family members – we identify seven barriers to independent living in Hungary, which create an adverse environment. We also highlight a number of facilitators that help people to overcome or mitigate this adverse environment. In the conclusion, we discuss trends in Hungarian disability policies that impact opportunities for independent living. Results suggest decades of human-rights inspired legal progress has made little difference in people’s lived realities.
Disability Not Invisibility: My experience With Chronic Illness (youtube.com)
Victoria “Vicky” Potter is a sophomore in the Honors College at FSU, majoring in Neuroscience. She was born and raised in Memphis, TN, and is a first generation American. She is a part of two student groups on campus: RENEW (Realizing Everyone’s Need for Emotional Wellness), a peer education group organized to teach students how to deal with stress and time management, and Phi Delta Epsilon, the only medical fraternity on campus that fundraises for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.
'Bridgerton' season 3 captures disability, neurodiversity in regency era (abcnews.go.com)
Netflix's "Bridgerton" showrunner Jess Brownell spoke about disability and LGBTQ representation in Season 3 of the hit show.
‘We’re Flying Blind’: CDC Has 1M Bird Flu Tests Ready, but Experts See Repeat of Covid Missteps (kffhealthnews.org)
Three months into the U.S. bird flu outbreak, only 45 people have been tested. Laboratories that are the foundation of diagnostic testing have yet to get approval to detect the bird flu virus. They say their path forward has been slowed by miscommunication and uncertainty from the CDC and FDA.
Mad Max: Fury Road was a pioneering portrayal of disability. Furiosa is a letdown (screenhub.com.au)
Two professors look at the portrayal of disability in Furiosa, a departure from the groundbreaking Mad Max: Fury Road.
“Help! I Need a [Wheelchair Van, Wheelchair, Rollator, Shower Bench, etc.]: A Quick and Dirty Guide to Getting Used Equipment (wheelieoutthere.blogspot.com)
In the parking lot of the home improvement store, a man pulled next to us and introduced himself, apologizing profusely. He saw us shopping for flowers in the store and didn't want to bother us, but he was desperate. His father had suffered a #stroke and they were learning how to take care of him but had no easy way to get him to and from his medical appointments. How could they find an affordable van with a lift, like ours?
Thanks from me and my c-uterus! (carlyfindlay.com.au)
Since I posted about my health and needing a hysterectomy on Wednesday night, I’ve felt so loved. The comments and messages and offers of help have been heartwarming. I feel very supported, and less anxious about impending surgery. I was hesitant about how much to share, but what I have shared has meant I’ve received lots of reassurance about the procedure and also the great care at the hospital, and a few people have thanked me for talking about my symptoms as they’ve experienced the same. The response I received reminded me of all the good things about social media – which is much needed in these dark times. Of course, the very good preparatory appointments I’ve had at The Women’s have helped too.
Ethical design and accessibility (buttondown.email)
While we are getting better at ethical designs focusing on people from different socioeconomic backgrounds…
Eight steps to a more inclusive event (buttondown.email)
Part one of a two-part article. Part two focuses on how to make PowerPoint presentations more accessible.
Do you have a disability if you don’t have an official diagnosis? (buttondown.email)
Most importantly, this is not intended to be an exhaustive list.
Enable Accessibility (buttondown.email)
I’ve been living in a trailer for seven months wearing the same one week’s worth of clothes every day. Everything else I own is packed away in storage while construction is going on to make my house wheelchair accessible, and I hadn’t planned on still being here during winter. My fashion-forward oldest daughter suggested a sweater from Everlane, so I went there on Black Friday hoping to score a deal.
On edge (lucywebster.substack.com)
The mental calculations disabled women make to keep ourselves safe - and what happens when we don't have to.
Even free software needs VPATs … (buttondown.email)
Accessibility Myth: Free software doesn’t require VPATs. VPATS are only required when software is purchased.
Press Release: 3Play Media Study Reveals Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) Engines are Fine Tuning After a Year of Massive Improvement (3playmedia.com)
3Play Media's annual State of ASR Report is here! This in-depth analysis explores how ASR engines perform for captioning and transcription.
How to Know You Are Implementing UDL with Loui Lord Nelson (mcie.org)
Loui Lord Nelson, an internationally recognized expert in Universal Design for Learning (UDL), is the author of the bestselling book, “Design and Deliver.” A former special education teacher, Louie is renowned for her work on UDL at various levels, including district, national, and international stages. She has been awarded her postdoc by […]Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas delves into the intricate aspects of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) with Loui Lord Nelson, a globally recognized UDL leader. Loui shares her fascinating journey, from being a special education teacher to becoming a thought leader in educational practices that promote inclusivity. The episode is a cornucopia of practical advice, transformative insights, and real-world examples of UDL in action.
Mariott Agrees to Improve Its Accessible-Room Reservation System (newmobility.com)
Booking an accessible room at a Marriott hotel is about to become easier. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado has announced an agreement with Marriott International, which addresses barriers to making accessible-room reservations at Marriott-branded hotels across the U.S.
What To Know About West Nile As Officials Warn Against Deadly Disease At Start Of Mosquito Season (forbes.com)
West Nile virus is well established across the continental United States and there are no vaccines or treatments for human infections, which can cause fever, brain inflammation, coma and death.
ADHD Drug Shortage Could Worsen After Arrests Of 2 Telehealth Executives, CDC Warns (forbes.com)
Two executives of Done Global Inc. were accused by the Department of Justice of creating a $100 million scheme to distribute over 40 million ADHD medication pills to patients with no “legitimate medical purpose.”
Inevitable Foundation Announces Visionary Fellowship for Disabled Filmmakers (about.netflix.com)
Inevitable Foundation, a non-profit organization that invests in disabled writers and filmmakers, is doubling down on their mission with the launch of their newest groundbreaking program, the Visionary Fellowship for disabled filmmakers. The program is supported exclusively by Netflix's Fund for Creative Equity.
Supreme Court Upholds Abortion Drug Mifepristone (forbes.com)
The justices ruled the challengers didn’t have standing to bring the case.
States Move To Allow Pharmacists To Prescribe More Treatments (forbes.com)
Several states are expanding pharmacists’ scope of practice to allow them to prescribe amid a shortage of primary care physicians and other healthcare workers.
Walmart offers paid American Sign Language training to all employees at Texas facility (hrgrapevine.com)
According to Walmart, the training comes in support of Kayla Kampman, its first deaf automation engineer who is a top performer at the facility.
States Move To Allow Pharmacists To Prescribe More Treatments (forbes.com)
Several states are expanding pharmacists’ scope of practice to allow them to prescribe amid a shortage of primary care physicians and other healthcare workers.
Supreme Court Upholds Abortion Drug Mifepristone (forbes.com)
The justices ruled the challengers didn’t have standing to bring the case.
ADHD Drug Shortage Could Worsen After Arrests Of 2 Telehealth Executives, CDC Warns (forbes.com)
Two executives of Done Global Inc. were accused by the Department of Justice of creating a $100 million scheme to distribute over 40 million ADHD medication pills to patients with no “legitimate medical purpose.”
What To Know About West Nile As Officials Warn Against Deadly Disease At Start Of Mosquito Season (forbes.com)
West Nile virus is well established across the continental United States and there are no vaccines or treatments for human infections, which can cause fever, brain inflammation, coma and death.
US software company Salesforce gave NDIS officials gifts worth more than $100 on 45 occasions (theguardian.com)
Documents submitted by the company to a parliamentary inquiry also detail meetings between Salesforce and former minister Stuart Robert at his request
Walking three times a week ‘nearly halves’ recurrence of low back pain (theguardian.com)
Australian research finds people who walked three to five times weekly stayed pain-free almost twice as long
Dark UI themes are new and cool — but are they accessible? (buttondown.email)
The dark mode is one of those new, hot design features that is generating a lot of “buzz”. Apple and Slack, for example, have been pushing dark-themed pages hard lately. However, it appears that not much thought has been given to dark mode accessibility.
Apple adds new accessibility features to iPhones and iPads (disabilityinsider.com)
Apple has added new accessibility features for iPhones and iPads, designed to enhance the user experience for persons with disabilities. Central to these innovations is Eye Tracking, enabling users to control their devices using only their eyes. This feature utilizes advanced hardware and software to offer navigation and interaction, greatly benefiting people with mobility disabilities.
Disability Marketing with Martyn Sibley (buzzsprout.com)
Martyn works at the intersection of business, technology and leadership to drive change for a fully inclusive world. Starting one of the first lived experience blogs in 2009, he's created high quality content, built online communities and started multiple businesses.
Support Disabled People's Right to Live Independently (enil.eu)
A few weeks ago, we’ve been contacted by Max Thurston, a PhD researcher and passionate adventure cyclist from Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA, now living in Helsinki, Finland. Max contacted us with a very specific project in mind. His aim was to cycle around the world, while raising awareness of the rights of Disabled People. A project that immediately caught our interest!
Free Webinar: Discuss dementia, AI and VR with the Alzheimer's Society (abilitynet.org.uk)
Join us for a FREE webinar packed with inspiring stories and practical tools for helping with dementia, on Wednesday 10 July 2024.
Don’t just design accessible products, build accessible experiences (buttondown.email)
Designing is just one tiny piece of the product development lifecycle. It’s a crucial piece; don’t get me wrong.
Don’t start the work New Year by sponsoring a weight loss contest (buttondown.email)
Almost 1/3 of Americans make New Year's resolutions. A staggering number of the resolutions made by people are related to weight loss (37 %), exercising (50 %), and eating healthier (43%).
Should FEMA recognize extreme heat and wildfire smoke as 'major disasters'? (latimes.com)
Making the Federal Emergency Management Agency formally recognize extreme heat and smoke would unlock crucial disaster relief funding during those events.
B.C. is preparing for the possibility of another deadly heat event after hundreds died last summer from extreme heat, but some worry the provincial government isn't doing enough.
Disability in the Heat (disabilitydebrief.org)
Why authorities need to prioritise people at highest risk as temperatures rise
Do internet-only businesses come under the Americans with Disabilities Act? (buttondown.email)
Places of public accommodation is a particular phrase defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. The ADA identifies a wide range of public accommodations, including restaurants, hotels, theaters, doctors’ offices, pharmacies, retail stores, museums, libraries, amusement parks, private schools, and daycare centers. Private clubs and religious organizations are specifically exempt from the definition of public accommodations. However, most courts have held if the club or organization does something open to the general public and not restricted to members, such as a wedding, the facilities involved do come under the ADA as a public accommodation.
Domino’s accessibility lawsuit update (buttondown.email)
Robles upgraded the iPhone he used for his original claim and no longer had it. Domino’s tried to use that as proof that the case should be decided in their favor because Domino’s could no longer examine the phone. Domino’s attorneys went so far as to ask for sanctions for “destruction of evidence” (which was denied). The court found that “[t]he iPhone is not necessary to establish Plaintiff’s interaction with the website,” but Robles and their legal team could have avoided a whole lot of grief if they had kept the device.
The Cane Kids: a story of accessibility, inclusion and independence (blindnewworld.org)
As an O&M specialist, Kristen Lang knows the power and possibility of the white cane - and that perspective shines through in her new children's book, The Cane Kids.
Documenting Accessibility Decisions (buttondown.email)
Once we flip the narrative from assuming people can focus and remember to the opposite, accessibility program documentation decisions become pretty simple. Document every meaningful decision, and assume that no one involved in accessibility has the guaranteed luxury of narrow focus or strong memory.
Documentation and Accessibility (buttondown.email)
Document generation engines are a big part of technical documentation these days, especially in enterprise software.
Disability Microaggressions — AKA “Ableist things people say” (buttondown.email)
A microaggression is an indirect, subtle, possibly unintentional discrimination against members of a marginalized group. Usually, these take the form of statements, actions, incidents, or exclusions. Being excluded from an event because of what the host perceives you can or can’t do is almost always a microaggression.
Disability inclusive workplaces (buttondown.email)
HBR recently published an article called 5 Strategies for Creating an Inclusive Workspace. And while the article is brilliant for addressing race, gender, and standard diversity dimensions, it didn’t include any examples of disability-related inclusion. There’s even a hashtag for “diversity that doesn’t include disability” — it’s #Diversish.
Disability Burnout is Real (buttondown.email)
Disability burnout can involve a sense of reduced accomplishment and can also have a seriously detrimental effect on an individual’s physical or mental health. It is an insidious condition that can happen slowly, over a long period of time. But the consequences can be life-altering, which is why it’s important to spot the signs of disability burnout early.
This Writer’s 800-Square-Foot LA Apartment Puts Accessibility First (architecturaldigest.com)
Having grown up in Los Angeles’s South Bay, Kelly Dawson wanted to experience another part of the sprawling city when she decided to leave her parents’ house and move into her own home. But the writer, editor, and marketing consultant (whose writing frequently appears in AD) had non-negotiable requirements that made her apartment search especially challenging.
Understanding and Combating Bullying Against Individuals with Disabilities (wileyswalk.com)
Bullying knows no boundaries, affecting individuals of all ages and backgrounds. However, for those with disabilities, the impact can be particularly devastating. Bullying is when someone repeatedly acts aggressively to hurt, scare, or upset another person. It can be physical, verbal, or through social exclusion or spreading rumors. Cyberbullying is also common, using digital platforms to harass or intimidate. Bullying often happens when one person has more power or influence than the other, creating an unfair situation for the targeted individual.
Make Neurodiversity Boring (bostonreview.net)
Like Robert Chapman, I worry that neurodiversity has not lived up to its promise. I too am frustrated that the word has in some circles come to denote employer initiatives to hire STEM-oriented autistic people alone. Such a narrow vision is a far cry from what Jim Sinclair, the movement’s founder, intended; Sinclair called for a neurodiversity that included all autistic people—and many with other neurological disabilities as well. A movement only about those with “special abilities” betrays Sinclair, Mel Baggs, and others without which neurodiversity would not exist.
Disability News and Mental Health, Election Q and A: mental health, children and housing (bbc.co.uk)
Election topics suggested by our audience: mental health, children, housing and COVID.
‘A 30-second walk would exhaust me beyond reason’: Natacha’s life with long Covid (theguardian.com)
Natacha Gray had an active life, diving, climbing and playing music, before illness left her so tired she would collapse on the way to the couch. She discusses two and a half devastating years – and how she stays optimistic.
"Will you work with me?" Lucy's Workfit Case Study (dancesyndrome.co.uk)
Dance Leader Lucy was keen to find paid employment. With help from her mum, Lucy signed up for the Workfit programme.
A Fearless Explorer - Sickle Cell Anemia - Lalit Kishor Pargi (youtube.com)
This film invites viewers into the life of Lalit, a remarkable individual who has faced the challenges of Sickle Cell Anemia for 34 years. Diagnosed at the age of 16 due to lack of awareness, Lalit shares the challenges and complications associated with this genetic blood disorder. Despite the hurdles, Lalit emphasizes the importance of disease management and proper awareness. His advocacy extends to encouraging testing before marriage to prevent the hereditary transmission of Sickle Cell.
DOJ finds Alaska guilty of discrimination against voters with disabilities (disabilityinsider.com)
The Justice Department announced on Tuesday its findings that Alaska violated Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by failing to provide an accessible ballot for in-person voting, selecting inaccessible polling places for federal, state and local elections and maintaining an inaccessible elections website. The ADA requires that states’ voting services, programs and activities be accessible to individuals with disabilities.
National Council for Mental Wellbeing: Pride at the Intersections (respectability.org)
Exploring the unique experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals and how to best support and empower patients, clients and friends with intersecting identities.
"Harmonium: The Musical" Introduces Harmonium Sign Language to Promote Inclusion in Gaming (assistivetechnologyblog.com)
Explore the world of "Harmonium: The Musical" and learn Harmonium Sign Language to solve puzzles in this innovative and inclusive game.
Deaf Discovery: Engage and explore with Deaf researchers (sites.manchester.ac.uk)
The SORD booth, located at University Place opposite Manchester Museum, was bustling from 10am to 4:30pm. The stall offered a variety of interactive, family-friendly activities to foster understanding of Deaf culture while learning about the contributions of Deaf researchers and the SORD research group. Short videos were filmed with the SORD team members and shared on Instagram and TikTok.
Disability and the media: disability in films (disabilityhorizons.com)
Explore the evolving landscape of disability representation in film and TV, from authentic portrayals to inclusion behind the scenes.