What could Donald Trump’s return to the presidency mean for Medicaid?
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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Raul
Hand-picked news about inclusion, accessibilty and innovation
What could Donald Trump’s return to the presidency mean for Medicaid? (startribune.com)
Social services advocates worry the Trump administration could cut food stamps, rent help and other social services programs low-income Minnesotans rely on.
Meet Dr Mona Minkara, the blind scientist redefining accessible travel and adventure (tatlerasia.com)
“Vision is more than sight” is the life philosophy that has led American bio-engineering professor and blind scientist Mona Minkara on a journey that transcends limitations.
Project 2025: A Potential Reshaping of Disability Rights in America (disabled-world.com)
This article focuses on the key points of Project 2025 and its potential impact on the disability community.
Trump wants to shut down the Department of Education. Here’s what that could mean (edition.cnn.com)
President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to abolish the Department of Education. Here’s what the agency does and how eliminating it could play out.
Army veteran receives wheelchair accessible, mortgage-free home in Nolensville (wsmv.com)
That home, now where the Hargis family lives, was gifted to them by the Gary Sinise Foundation in honor of Sergeant Joshua Hargis’ service and loss of his legs during his time in Afghanistan.
Alzheimer's timeline shows changes start as trickle, become torrent (npr.org)
A study of cells from 84 brains finds that Alzheimer's has two distinct phases, and that one type of neuron is especially vulnerable.
A Multiphase Road Map to Digital Accessibility for K-12 Schools (americanprogress.org)
Technological advancements continue to shape the landscape of America’s public education system, prompting the introduction of new requirements to ensure equitable and meaningful access for all students. In June 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice issued a new rule enhancing the regulations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to remove technology-related accessibility barriers for the 7.5 million disabled students who attend U.S. public schools.
Ensuring Digital Accessibility in K-12 Schools in a Technology-Driven Era (americanprogress.org)
As technology advances and becomes more integral to K-12 education, school districts and policymakers must prioritize digital accessibility to enhance the educational experiences of students with disabilities and promote equity for all learners.
More info about why and how to apply for a $300 Project Sidewalk grant to document accessibility barriers (chi.streetsblog.org)
As discussed during the Active Transportation Alliance's recent Chicago Advocate Connect session, they've partnered with the University of Illinois Chicago's Institute of Disability and Human Development on Project Sidewalk. This initiative to document the conditions of local sidewalks and bikeways is offering $300 stipends to 10 participants who will virtually move through city streets using Google Streetview, and document accessibility barriers. We asked ATA for some more details about the program.
Advocates worry about accessibility in New York's CDPAP overhaul (cbs6albany.com)
New York State is outsourcing the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) starting in April 2025.
‘Money’s worth’: Chicopee city councilor requests accessibility audit of city (masslive.com)
“Many residents have expressed their concerns to me about ADA compliance in public buildings," said Councilor Mary Beth Pniak-Costello.
Inside The NHL’s Work To Give Ice Time To Deaf Fans (forbes.com)
The 2024–25 NHL season is young—and with accessibility in tow.
And the Word Became Accessible: Publishers Release Dyslexia-Friendly Bibles (christianitytoday.com)
Designer hopes a new custom typeface will be a life-changing tool for those with reading disorders.
Disability rights advocates said kids like Ty should not be getting arrested under Tennessee’s school threats law. And they tried to push for a broader exception for kids with other kinds of disabilities. It didn’t work.
Groundbreaking New PBS Kids Series “Carl the Collector” Features Authentic Autistic Representation On Screen (respectability.org)
Series Production Team Includes Variety of Neurodivergent Writers, Production Staff, Animators, Advisors, and Voice Talent
Fauquier board blocks family's request to build an accessible home for their disabled daughter (princewilliamtimes.com)
A family hoped to build an accessible home for their disabled child on shared property, but Fauquier County rules say they can’t build a second home there. Now they could be forced to move.
White Marsh Mall adding more accessible food court parking following civil rights complaint (wmar2news.com)
The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights has resolved a 2019 accessibility complaint filed against White Marsh Mall.
Baltimore City to invest $44 million to make sidewalks more accessible, disability friendly (cbsnews.com)
Baltimore City will use funds from a settlement agreement to make Baltimore more accessible for those with disabilities and pedestrians, Mayor Brandon Scott announced Thursday.
Baltimore to spend $44M on ADA improvements, to settle lawsuit (wmar2news.com)
Baltimore City has agreed to spend $44 million on sidewalk and street-ramp improvements, after a lawsuit from wheelchair users.
Baltimore reaches $44 million settlement in suit over pedestrian accessibility (thebaltimorebanner.com)
As part of the deal, the city agreed to create a program overseen by Baltimore’s Department of Transportation dedicated to pedestrian accessibility.
Accessibility, diversity & global expansions: 5 big hotel news stories this week (hoteliermiddleeast.com)
Why RAK is a great place to work for women, Hilton's new brand for the Middle East and more. Accessibility, diversity & global expansions: 5 big hotel news stories this week.
Latest Hearing on Australian Live Music Crisis Discusses Accessibility & Mental Health (cityhub.com.au)
Another hearing was held today on the Australian live music industry crisis, hearing from Arts Access VIC and music charity Support Act.
Think Japan isn’t friendly for tourists with disabilities? Think again (scmp.com)
Japan has made big steps in accessible travel, one expert says, while bodies like Accessible Japan and TokudAw help those with special needs.
Accessibility for disabled persons is a human and a fundamental right: SC judgment (thehindu.com)
Supreme Court emphasizes disabled persons' right to access, highlighting lack of compliance with accessibility standards and societal barriers.
Centre must establish mandatory accessibility norms for specially abled: SC (business-standard.com)
The Supreme Court on Friday directed the Centre to implement mandatory accessibility standards within three months, in a significant order aimed at improving access to public spaces for persons with disabilities.
SC directs Centre to establish mandatory accessibility standards for disabled persons (economictimes.indiatimes.com)
The Supreme Court has ordered the Indian government to implement mandatory accessibility standards for public spaces within three months. This directive aims to ensure that all new and existing infrastructure is accessible to people with disabilities.
Experts hope SC ruling sets tone for disabled accessibility (newindianexpress.com)
This judgement has, therefore, laid the foundation on which the disability sector can firmly build an edifice of rights, Dr Dhanda said.
“While it is true that accessibility is a right that requires “progressive realization”, this cannot mean that there is no base level of non-negotiable rules that must be adhered to. While the formulation of detailed guidelines by the various ministries is undoubtedly a laudable step, this must be done in addition to prescribing mandatory rules, and not in place of it.”
Disabled community’s dream of an accessible India gets longer still (scroll.in)
The Supreme Court verdict has struck down a rule and sought mandatory norms. But till then, India is back in the wild, wild west when it comes to accessibility.
In a significant judgment boosting disability rights, the Supreme Court on Friday (November 8) directed the Union Government to frame mandatory rules as required under Section 40 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 for ensuring that public places and services accessible to persons with disabilities.
Supreme Court Mandates Non-Negotiable Accessibility Standards for Persons with Disabilities (legalitysimplified.com)
The Supreme Court of India has pronounced a judgment upholding the rights of persons with disabilities (PwDs). It has also directed the government to take immediate steps to ensure accessibility in public spaces and services.
Disability charity says NIC increase leaves 'massive hole' (bbc.com)
The charity says it will be £235k worse off and wants voluntary groups to be exempt from NI changes.
City’s recreation centres lack accessible equipment or trained staff: disability advocates (burnabybeacon.com)
Burnaby residents with disabilities say the city needs to do more to make recreation centres fully accessible and train staff to assist
Beyond Barriers: How Dubai became the ultimate destination for Disabled travellers (cntraveller.com)
"From the moment I step off the plane, the modern, inclusive infrastructure wraps around me like a welcoming embrace."
UNESCO releases Cambodia’s first information needs assessment for persons with disabilities (unesco.org)
Currently, around 15% of the global population, an estimated 1 billion people, live with some forms of disabilities. Given the growing life expectancies, medical advances and population growth, this number is increasing, making persons with disabilities (PwDs) the world’s largest minority and most disadvantaged group, who tends to experience discrimination and various barriers to inclusion.
There are 61 special needs education centres in Perth, but only 16 across regional WA. Parents want change (abc.net.au)
Nicole Dowers moved her family 180 kilometres so her son Cooper could access the school support he needed. Some advocates think the school she moved for shouldn't exist.
Ontario is supposed to be fully accessible by Jan. 1, but advocates say it's 'nowhere close' (cbc.ca)
In the new year, Ontario is supposed to be fully accessible for disabled people, but advocates say the province is ‘nowhere near’ meeting standards it created 20 years ago.
Access in the Channel Islands needs to improve - wheelchair user (bbc.com)
James Bedding says small steps can be a "nightmare" for wheelchair users in Jersey.
Buildings across Jersey to be lit purple to support accessibility drive (jerseyeveningpost.com)
BUILDINGS across Jersey will be lit up purple today in a move designed to raise awareness about improving customer experience for disabled people and their families.
Group to discuss additional £200k boost for disabled facilities grants (rushcliffe.gov.uk)
A boost of an extra £200,000 of further support for Disabled Facilities Grants (DFG) for Rushcliffe residents is set to be discussed, with a view to approval by the Council’s Cabinet in early December.
New report calls for overhaul of London’s transport accessibility standards (globalrailwayreview.com)
A new report by Transport for All urges London to revamp its transport accessibility standards, calling for inclusive criteria.
Inez Playford on making the Australian film industry more accessible for disabled creatives and audiences (missingperspectives.com)
A recent Screen Australia report shows that Australian television’s disabled representation has increased from 3.6 to 6.6% on screen. Yet why aren’t there aren’t any statistics for how many disabled creatives work off screen in the Australian film industry?
Tokyo, Out to Make Art and Culture Accessible for All (japan-forward.com)
Focusing on inclusivity for people with disabilities, Tokyo is enhancing accessibility in art and culture ahead of the 2025 World Athletics Championships and Deaflympics.
Research shows how transport bodies could add accessibility into vital planning tool (disabilitynewsservice.com)
Transport bodies planning station upgrades could take easy steps that would allow them to take greater account of accessibility when deciding where to invest, new research commissioned by disabled people has shown.
Making Digital Accessibility More Than Just High Contrast: Building Truly Inclusive Software (infoq.com)
In this podcast Shane Hastie, Lead Editor for Culture & Methods, spoke to accessibility expert Sheri Byrne-Haber, about how digital accessibility goes far beyond just high contrast colours. The discussion is emphasizing that it encompasses making products and services fully usable by people with disabilities.
Recognizing that disability is a crosscutting issue, the CDLG project emphasizes the vital role Local Governments play in creating accessible environments.
All urban design should be human-centered, and universal design is the path to achieving it. (disruptmag.com)
This isn’t just about compliance with the ADA; it’s about envisioning spaces where everyone can live, work, and thrive without barriers. Steve Wright, a universal design expert, calls for raising the bar beyond minimal standards. From accessible sidewalks to universally designed housing and transit, the built environment should prioritize usability and safety for everyone, including seniors and people with disabilities. Universal design improves quality of life for all. Features like ramps, wide sidewalks, and step-free entrances don’t just aid wheelchair users—they benefit parents with strollers, elderly pedestrians, and delivery professionals. The CDC reports that one in four people will experience a disability at some point, and yet, under 1% of U.S. housing is fully accessible. Investing in inclusive design now yields long-term health, economic, and social benefits, making cities stronger, healthier, and more connected for future generations.
Apple's head of accessibility highlights the importance of AI (9to5mac.com)
As reported last week, Apple’s global head of accessibility Sarah Herrlinger spoke this Tuesday at the Web Summit Lisbon 2024. At the event, Herrlinger talked about everything Apple has been doing to make its devices easy to use for anyone and also highlighted the use of AI to help people with disabilities.
Accessibility tips for the holiday season from the Northwest ADA Center (youtube.com)
John Dorris, the newly-appointed Assistant Director for the Northwest ADA Center, says knowing the needs of your guests before having a party is important.
Blinded Veteran in a Waymo: ‘I Am Alone in a Car Again and it Brought a Tear to My Eye’ (waymo.com)
Teresa Galgano, a member of the Blinded Veterans Association (BVA), discovers how Waymo's fully autonomous ride-hailing service restores the feeling of freedom and independence that she got from driving before her sight loss.
Evidence is essential in arguing against accessibility adjustments on heritage projects (pbctoday.co.uk)
About Access was recently asked to assess accessibility adjustments at a prominent UK heritage tourism site- and found some glaring omissions
The accessibility advantage: Boost your brand’s reach, reputation and relevance (marketing-beat.co.uk)
With the spending power of people with disabilities in the UK estimated at £274 billion annually, the economic case for building accessible digital products and services is undeniable.
Inclusive by Design: How Banks Can Address the Accessibility Challenge (thefintechtimes.com)
Giesecke+Devrient's Thomas Götz explains how banks can address challenges when complying with 2025's European Accessibility Act.
Why building an accessible home was the right choice for us (alsnewstoday.com)
Columnist Kristin Neva and her husband with ALS are sometimes asked about the way they went about building their accessible home.
Inaccessible Designs Leave Two-Thirds of UK Adults Feeling Excluded (news.samsung.com)
Samsung Electronics Co., (UK) Ltd research reveals that inaccessible designs are excluding millions of consumers from products, services and experiences in the UK.
Bring The Voice Of People With Disabilities Into Your VoC Program (forrester.com)
Most organizations lack one of the most critical elements of an accessibility program: direct feedback from people with disabilities.
World Usability Day 2024: Designing For A Better World (etvbharat.com)
World Usability Day is celebrated to promote the values of Usability, Usability Engineering, and Universal Usability.
UKSG FE Webinar Series: Librarians as accessibility superheroes (uksg.org)
Thank you for registering for the UKSG FE Webinar series, below we have a number of documents to support and enhance your participation of the session as well as the recording. Please click on the links below to access each of the documents.
What Accessibility Statements are really for (linkedin.com)
Yes it was me... I was one of the people who originally came up with the idea of Accessibility Statements. Back in 2009 and 2010, when I was leading the creation of BS 88878, my team at BSI and I came up with some of the initial guidance for these Statements, to help organisations communicate what accessibility they had and hadn't been able to achieve in websites to their users who have disabilities.
How will AI affect accessibility in tech? (itpro.com)
As leaders look to AI for quick accessibility wins, they must ensure algorithms don't simply entrench existing biases or only cater to specific groups
Cintas’ Commitment to Accessibility (laundryledger.com)
Cintas’ identity is shaped by the diverse life experiences and unique perspectives of its employee-partners, according to a news release. Part of that identity is creating a work environment that is inclusive and accessible for individuals with disabilities.
Accessibility: The Web Almanac by HTTP Archive (almanac.httparchive.org)
Accessibility chapter of the 2024 Web Almanac covering ease of reading, navigation, forms, media, ARIA, and accessibility apps.
Holiday Gifting: Disability-Owned & Employed Companies To Support (ancor.org)
Shopping at disability-owned and-employed companies is a great way to support meaningful work for people with disabilities.
International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) (iddrr.undrr.org)
International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction 2023
World Tsunami Awareness Day (tsunamiday.undrr.org)
To achieve the goal of the Sendai Framework of reducing global disaster risks and losses, the theme of World Tsunami Awareness Day 2024, which is on 5 November, we will be commemorating the 20thanniversary of the Indian Ocean Tsunami by passing its lessons to a new generation of children and youth.
Foundation giving for disability (disabilityphilanthropy.org)
Priorities and Trends.
Finding my fairy-tale (disabilitydebrief.org)
Tales of travel with a wheelchair and a green passport
Spotlight: Inclusive Hiring (askearn.org)
Explore a variety of tools, resources, and practical tips to help employers put inclusive hiring practices into action.
(PDF) Artificial Intelligence Integration in Teacher Education: Navigating Benefits, Challenges, and Transformative Pedagogy (researchgate.net)
ResearchGate is a network dedicated to science and research. Connect, collaborate and discover scientific publications, jobs and conferences. All for free.
UW–Madison prepares for compliance with new federal rule on digital accessibility (it.wisc.edu)
Universities must make digital resources accessible by Apr 24, 2026, under a new Justice Department rule. Learn about the committee tasked with identifying barriers and resources needed for compliance.
This company’s mission is to make the world accessible to Deaf people. It all started at Berkeley’s Big Ideas Contest (news.berkeley.edu)
Ava is revolutionizing how the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community understands the world. It couldn't have happened without the spirit of innovation fostered at UC Berkeley.
University of Phoenix Accessibility Team Members Present at Conference Promoting Awareness in Higher Education (businesswire.com)
Manager of Accessibility and Usability Janet Fukuda and Digital Accessibility Specialist Sunni Curtis share insights on enhancing accessibility UX/UI designers at the ASU Accessibility Awareness Day Conference
U of I project aims to make voice technology more accessible for people with speech impairments (ipmnewsroom.org)
Automatic speech recognition technologies have improved greatly over the last decade. But these advancements often leave people with speech impairments behind.
'Just trying to be students': Disability Advocates Committee requests accessibility reform (dailytarheel.com)
The student organization released a statement following the week of Oct. 7, when students with disabilities were unable to access some building entrances and exits.
Accessibility Resource Center’s Policy for Supporting Students with Disabilities (waseda.jp)
The Accessibility Resource Center (ARC) was established in 2023 through a name change. Director of the Student Diversity Center, which oversees the ARC, Takeshi Akiba (Associate Professor, Faculty of International Research and Education), will explain the support policy for students with disabilities.
Shippensburg University Introduces Blue Envelope Program (news.ship.edu)
Shippensburg University Introduces Blue Envelope Program to Cumberland County, an initiative that will help support drivers on the spectrum.
Student Accessibility Support Center reopens after scheduled renovations (sbstatesman.com)
Stony Brook University’s Student Accessibility Support Center (SASC) reopened on Monday, Oct. 21, after being closed due to scheduled renovations that began on Aug. 1. SASC works collaboratively with students, faculty and staff to coordinate reasonable accommodations and ensure equal access to education, residential life and campus communities.
Improving accessibility at Disability Services: a new braille machine (youtube.com)
The Office of Disability Services has a new assistive technology that will make brailling for blind students much more accessible.
AccessABLE club supports and advocates for disabled students (ndsmcobserver.com)
Co-presidents of the student club AccessABLE discussed the challenges facing disabled students on campus.
Accessibility concerns prompt campus-wide petition (dailyiowan.com)
Iowa’s Old Capitol, with its gilded dome, sticks out among the buildings on the University of Iowa Pentacrest. However, they all hold history — especially Macbride Hall. Home to the Natural History Museum of Iowa, Macbride is filled with artifacts, excelling in telling stories that have long since ended.
Addressing campus inaccessibility one sticker at a time (thefrontonline.com)
This Is Not Accessible, shortened to T.I.N.A., is a student-led project that aims to bring awareness to areas on campus that aren't inclusive to students with physical disabilities, all through the act of placing a sticker. Scanning the QR code at the bottom of each sticker brings up the T.I.N.A. Linktree, which hosts several disability resources as well as the project's Instagram page. There, anyone can request stickers to place themselves via direct messaging.
Libraries receive diversity-equity-inclusion honor (binghamton.edu)
Prism Award comes from South Central Regional Library Council
SFU launches inaugural Accessibility Plan (sfu.ca)
The university’s first institutional Accessibility Plan marks a significant step towards building an equitable and inclusive SFU for all who work, live, teach and learn here.
Spotlight: Transylvania's Advocates for Accessibility (transyrambler.com)
Transylvania’s Advocates for Accessibility is a campus club that works to support the inclusion of students and faculty with disabilities. The club originally was founded through a Student Government Association project by co-founder Abby Muncy. She discussed that, “We were noticing holes of accessibility on campus.”
AMS survey shows persisting accessibility concerns (ubyssey.ca)
The 2024 AMS Academic Experience Survey (AES) revealed that only 30 per cent of students with one or more disabilities are registered with UBC’s Centre for Accessibility (CFA).
Testing for Web Accessibility (accessibility.umich.edu)
Ready to begin accessibility testing?
Writing in Plain Language (accessibility.umich.edu)
Plain language is writing that is easy to read and understand.
The National Aging and Disability Transportation Center (NADTC) has recently announced a new round of grants designated to spur the development of community transportation plans with the Cortland County Planning Department being one of the twelve recipients to this round in the amount of $35,000 as part of the Rural Community Innovation Transportation Planning grants.
WBSC and Legend's latest collaboration marks a groundbreaking milestone for the global sports community, highlighting integration and accessibility in sports through the use of cutting-edge digital technology.
Cortland County Planning Department Awarded Funding to Develop Mobility & Accessibility Transportation Plan (cortlandvoice.com)
The Cortland County Planning Department is proud to announce that it has been awarded one of twelve (12) Rural Community Innovations: Transportation Planning Grants, generously funded by the Federal Transit Administration and administered by the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center (NADTC). This significant grant will enable Cortland County to develop a comprehensive transportation plan aimed at improving accessibility and equity within our community.
Handicap Help Launches New Consulting Services to Improve Accessibility Standards in Luxury Resorts (ksnt.com)
Handicap Help provides personalized consulting to make luxury resorts worldwide accessible, with a focus on physical disabilities and service dog accommodations.
Svayam Partners with International Film Festival of India to Enhance Accessibility for All Attendees (eventfaqs.com)
This collaboration also includes the festival's Film Bazaar, running from November 20 to 24, where Svayam will emphasize inclusivity and engagement for audiences with diverse abilities.
CiTTi Awards 2024 category spotlight: The Transport Inclusivity and Accessibility Award (cittimagazine.co.uk)
Ahead of this month’s CiTTi Awards 2024 ceremony, City Transport & Traffic Innovation Magazine is profiling each of this year’s finalists – continuing with those shortlisted for The Transport Inclusivity and Accessibility Award!
Inclusion solutions: Westfield Mayor’s Council on Disabilities focuses on accessibility (youarecurrent.com)
The Westfield Mayor’s Council on Disabilities has reengaged efforts to promote inclusivity and accessibility for residents.
Georgia Aquarium Earns Second WheelChariot Gold Certification for Accessibility (kxan.com)
Georgia Aquarium earns its second WheelChariot Gold Certification, setting a standard for accessibility and inclusive experiences in public spaces. We’re continually awed by the incredible effort made by Georgia Aquarium and its team to remain at the forefront of accessibility for anyone with any type of disability.”
Access for All: Park and Recreation Introduces New All-terrain Wheelchairs (news.mecknc.gov)
New all-terrain wheelchairs (ATWs) will soon be available to residents with disabilities that limit their access to greenways, trails and other outdoor environments.
New Ipsos survey confirms growing concern for digital accessibility in CX (cxnetwork.com)
The Ipsos Consumer Tracker found 75 percent believe it is important brands ensure digital CX is accessible for all
North East England goes purple to celebrate accessibility & inclusion (visitcountydurham.org)
Landmarks across the region will light up purple as visitor economy businesses come together to mark Purple Tuesday – a worldwide initiative for accessibility and inclusion. Purple Tuesday is a global social movement and the #1 brand for improving the customer experience for disabled people and their families 365 days a year.
SFChronicle launches audio articles to enhance content accessibility (sfchronicle.com)
A new audio feature on the Chronicle website will enhance how readers can engage with content from the newsroom.
Glasgow Airport joins government Aviation Accessibility Group (travelmole.com)
Glasgow Airport will be a part of the government’s new expert group to ‘break down barriers’ to air travel for disabled passengers.
£4.6m accessibility improvements unveiled at Plumstead station (networkrailmediacentre.co.uk)
Representatives from Network Rail and Southeastern were joined by Abena Oppong-Asare MP and invited guests to officially mark the opening of two new lifts at Plumstead station today (Friday 8 November) following £4.6million accessibility upgrades
Sustainability and connectivity at the heart of transport plans (york.gov.uk)
A detailed plan to deliver York’s future transport network has been released ahead of a City of York Council Executive meeting on Thursday 14 November.
Austin gets $288K grant for ADA-compliant trails, crossings (kxan.com)
A nearly $300,000 federal grant will help the city of Austin upgrade its trails and pedestrian crossings to be ADA-compliant.
RHF Educator Inclusion & Accessibility E-Learning Course (catholicteachers.ca)
We are Ontario's Catholic teachers. We teach in classrooms from Kindergarten to Grade 12 in publicly funded English Catholic schools.
L&Q launches disability steering group for inclusive design (housingdigital.co.uk)
Housing association L&Q has created a disability steering group to push inclusive design that makes homes more accessible
Neuralink Rival Precision Neuroscience Raises $93 Million (finance.yahoo.com)
Precision Neuroscience Corp., a brain implant rival to Elon Musk’s Neuralink Corp., has raised $93 million of a planned $100 million funding round, according to a person familiar with the situation. The deal valued the startup at about $500 million.
Making AI Accessible: VML to Lead Key SXSW Panel (vml.com)
A panel that explores AI’s role in recognizing the disabled community
Avowed Accessibility Features Detailed (gamingbolt.com)
Obsidian Entertainment's RPG will feature accessibility options for controls, camera, UI, text, and more, alongside multiple different localization options.
New 3D maps give disabled Southern, Thameslink, Great Northern and Gatwick Express passengers more independence at stations (mynewsdesk.com)
Three-dimensional maps of key stations in London, Sussex and Bedfordshire have been created by the country’s largest train operator to help passengers, and particularly those who are disabled, gain more confidence in navigating its stations with ease.
Polara Launches Revolutionary Wireless Pedestrian System for Accessible Crosswalks in the Transportation Industry (businesswire.com)
Polara Enterprises (Polara) is excited to announce the launch of its latest innovation for the transportation industry: the Wireless Ped System (WPS).
Expanding Our Commitment to Sensory-Friendly Experiences (csrwire.com)
Aligned with Comcast’s recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), Comcast announced today expanded accessibility offerings at the company’s headquarters campus in Philadelphia with the opening of a Sensory-Friendly Room at the Comcast Center.
AAVAA Hands-Free Accessibility Devices Now Compatible with Apple Software (hearingreview.com)
AAVAA’s accessibility devices, now compatible with Apple products, enable hands-free navigation via gestures like head movements and blinks.
Nike’s new easy-open backpack was designed to prioritize accessibility (theverge.com)
Now available without the trip to Paris.
EyesRo Launches on Indiegogo to Transform Eye Health Accessibility (einpresswire.com)
pixelRo Co., Ltd. Launches EyesRo on Indiegogo—Innovative App to Make Eye Health Accessible Anywhere, Anytime
Elektra: Pioneering Accessible and Sustainable Transport Solutions (motorindiaonline.in)
At the recent Prawaas 4.0 exhibition held at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre, Elektra showcased its innovative solutions in the realm of automatic doors and accessible transport products. This event, a significant gathering for the transport industry, provided a platform for Elektra to highlight its cutting-edge technologies and commitment to sustainability and accessibility.
White Rose seeks accessibility feedback this Purple Tuesday (southleedslife.com)
On Tuesday (12 November 2024) White Rose Shopping Centre is marking Purple Tuesday with a series of special events and guest feedback sessions aimed at raising awareness of sensory and accessibility challenges, and improving inclusivity across the centre.
COP29 Q&A: Creating an Accessible, Inclusive Conference (sustainabilitymag.com)
COP29’s Chief Operating Officer explains the planning and preparations to make the UN Climate Change Conference an accessible and inclusive environment
Transit Accessibility-Focused Digital Guides (trendhunter.com)
transit accessibility - Metrolinx has expanded its transit accessibility efforts by introducing six new digital guides on the MagnusCards app.
Lateral Rotation Medical Beds by ProBed Medical (pro-bed.com)
FOR OVER 25 YEARS the Freedom BedTM has been enhancing the lives of our clients across North America and in other countries. As the testimonials found on this site demonstrate, the Freedom Bed offers many significant benefits that enhance and improve the lives of our clients while reducing long-term care and medical costs.
The immense potential of AR/VR for accessibility (sirkotsky.substack.com)
Discussing current and prospective applications and limitations of AR and VR for accessibility
The Drawing Clinic (neutralground.sk.ca)
The Drawing Clinic is back! Book your 20 minute in-person appointment to participate in Sarah Mihara Creagen’s interactive performance at Neutral Ground. Join her for a one-on-one conversation behind the medical screen in The Drawing Clinic, from November 8-23th, 2024.
Toxic Bodies, an ongoing project of thinking through bioremediation and experiences of chronic illness (neutralground.sk.ca)
We kindly request our visitors to wear a face mask while visiting this reception. Neutral Ground will be providing free face masks at the entrance. Thank you for your cooperation!
UVA co-leads $2.9 million NIH investigation into where systems may fail people with disabilities (eurekalert.org)
The University of Virginia has combined efforts with Johns Hopkins University and others to understand how systems affect the care of people with disabilities.
Larissa Writing (larissaswriting.com)
Dear Anxiety letters from a girl who cares and stories from people who suffer with anxiety
Meeting Your Shooter (youtube.com)
Wesley gets to meet the man who shot him thanks to Karamo during Queer Eye Season 4.
Born This Way: Official Series Teaser (youtube.com)
Catch the new series Born This Way on Tuesday, December 8th at 10/9c. This series offers an intimate look into the lives of young men and women born with Down Syndrome.
Leadership Exchange in Arts and Disability Workshops & Conference (kennedy-center.org)
Leadership Exchange in Arts and Disability (LEAD®) is a professional network focused on expanding the breadth and scope of accessible cultural arts programming. Through LEAD®, cultural arts administrators engage in conversations with colleagues and experts from around the world; learn practical methods for designing inclusive arts experiences and environments; and develop best practices and resources.
Call for Submissions: Infinite Branches: Queer, Speculative Disability Poetry in Conversation - Open 10/15/24-12/1/24 (interstellarflightpress.com)
Interstellar Flight Press is seeking poets who are both queer/trans and disabled for a special collaborative series in 2025, to be published at Interstellar Flight Magazine. Our guest editor for this call is Toby MacNutt. This call is different than our past calls: Please read the guidelines carefully.
Stories of Care and Control (mictimeline.com)
Click below to access the main timeline and view key moments in over 500 years of history that have shaped the landscape of health and care in the United States. You can navigate to a particular date on the timeline, filter the data by selected topics, do a keyword search, or view one of our curated stories and timelines. Read more about How to Use This Timeline here.
Healing Histories Project (healinghistoriesproject.com)
Healing Histories Project deepens and expands relationships between and among abolitionist healers/health practitioners, community organizers, researchers/historians & cultural workers building solidarity to interrupt the Medical Industrial Complex and harmful systems of care.
Mad Studies Symposium (idha-nyc.org)
2024 marks the publication of the Mad Studies Reader, a book that brings together writing and artwork from service users, daring activists, critical scholars, concerned clinicians, and innovative artists! As people excluded from mainstream definitions of mental health and mental health care are increasingly finding ways to get their voices heard, the Mad Studies Reader explores this progress and presents us with hope as well as awareness of the challenges that lie ahead as we collectively work to build a world that embraces rather than divides.
CUNY SPS 2024 Disability Culture Summit (cunysps.swoogo.com)
The CUNY School of Professional Studies Disability Studies programs host the 2024 Disability Culture Summit on Thursday, November 21, 2024, 6:00-8:00pm, Eastern, featuring a panel of distinguished speakers, including performer Jerron Herman, music archivist Leroy F. Moore, Jr., athlete and administrator Ryan Martin, and scholar Ashley Shew. Held online via Zoom.
Ignite: Artist Development Workshops (eventbrite.com)
Welcome to Ignite, DaDa's artist development programme to help you re-engage with your inner creative. Whether you're an emerging artist looking for advice, established and wanting to try something new, or just interested in expanding your horizons.
Blackoak Capital, Cushman & Wakefield launch $100 million fund to address critical disability housing shortage (cushmanwakefield.com)
Blackoak Capital launches Lumenate SDA Investment Trust II to invest $100M in new Specialist Disability Accommodation for NDIS participants.
Inside a Massachusetts studio showcasing the work of artists with disabilities (pbs.org)
As major American museums reexamine their collections to ensure diversity and inclusion, there’s a growing realization that they need more art by people with disabilities. In Massachusetts, one organization has been celebrating that work for half a century. Special correspondent Jared Bowen of GBH in Boston reports.
Want to tell stories at the intersection of climate change and disability justice? Here's what you need to know (reframingdisability.substack.com)
Tips by Aine Kelly-Costello, ideas for your next story, data and resources on climate change and disability justice
Boren Awards (borenawards.org)
David L. Boren is the principal author of the legislation that created the National Security Education Program and the Boren Awards, the scholarships and fellowships that bear his name. In arguing in the U.S. Senate for passage of NSEP, Boren expressed his view that the U.S. needed a large increase in experts in the languages and cultures of nations which were underrepresented in the number of U.S. students studying there. With changes in the world, Boren felt that the U.S. would work more and more through partnerships with other countries whose needs and perspectives needed to be more fully understood.
Access/VSA International Young Musicians Program (kennedy-center.org)
The WNO Institute is a summer training program for high school singers interested in both Citizen Artistry and exploring all that opera and vocal performance have to offer in college and as a career. Students will develop their skills as performers while exploring how to use their full array of talents to build a life for themselves, a better field, and a better world.
Apply – Global UGRAD (globalugrad.org)
Eligible undergraduate students from participating countries/areas are encouraged to apply now for the Global UGRAD Program, a unique opportunity to complete a one-semester academic and cultural exchange at a U.S. institution of higher education. The annual application is now open with an application deadline of 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time on December 15th, for students wishing to complete the exchange during the 2025 – 2026 academic year. For more information on the program, please visit the Undergraduate Students tab. For a step-by-step guide on how to register and complete the student application, please reference the Student Application Guide.
Apply for WILD 2025! (miusa.org)
Applications are open for WILD 2025! Twenty women with disabilities from around the world will be selected to join WILD in Eugene, Oregon.
Extern Feature 2024: Michael Saravia (miusa.org)
Learn about 2024 Access to Exchange Extern Michael Saravia, Fulbrighter from Peru who earned a masters degree in the United States.
Announcing the Institutions Participating in the Campus Collaboration Initiative (miusa.org)
The 2024 NCDE Campus Collaboration Initiative (CCI) represents an opportunity for two institutions of higher education to expand collaboration between disability services and education abroad to support exchange participants with disabilities by expanding their own knowledge or the knowledge of others.
Nothing About Us Without Us (miusa.org)
When Guida Leicester arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, for a six week program through a Foreign Language and Area Studies (FLAS) Summer Fellowship, one thing quickly became apparent to her. “The staff and faculty had discussed what I could and could not do, but they had failed to include me in the conversation.”
Get Practical Experience in Computer Science While study in US (miusa.org)
Meenakshi Das (Meena), an international Computer Science student from India, advanced her programming career by studying Computer Science in the United States. She was selected as one of 12 recipients of the Google Lime Scholarship in North America in 2018 and was also invited for a 2 day scholars retreat at Google Headquarters in Mountain View in the summer to socialize with other scholarship winners and learn more about Google. Meena also gained practical experience at several tech companies in the U.S. We had the great opportunity to interview Meena and learn more about her studies in the U.S. as well as her adventures with companies such as Qualcomm and Microsoft.
A Great Privilege Becomes a Calling to Uplift Others (miusa.org)
With an interest in science and a passion for universal education, Samson Ndindiriyimana earned a scholarship from the government of Rwanda to continue his undergraduate studies in physics at Hendrix College in the United States. Samson, who is Deaf, dreams of becoming a civil engineer.
Encouraging Others to See the World (miusa.org)
To escape Michigan's cold winter, Juanita Lillie, who is blind, sought Spanish immersion in Central America, where she found warmth not only from the sunshine, but from classmates, professors, and the community.
More than one in three children in poverty as UK deprivation hits record high (theguardian.com)
Exclusive: Study finds almost quarter of UK population living in poverty, reaching the highest level this century
A cutting board costs me $75 – it might cost you $10. What to know about the ‘disability tax’ (theguardian.com)
Research shows disabled people need at least 28% more income than non-disabled people for a similar living standard
Victoria’s Secret: Progress in Inclusion – What’s Next? (martynsibley.com)
Rcently, the iconic Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show returned, and this time, it took a bold step toward diversity and inclusion. Seven disabled models, including Lila Moss, graced the runway, showcasing the brand’s commitment to embracing a broader spectrum of beauty. Lila, who has type 1 diabetes, walked proudly with her insulin pump visible—a powerful statement of representation for those living with medical conditions.
Introducing Stephen Warwick to AbilityNet's Board of Trustees (abilitynet.org.uk)
We are pleased to announce a new member of the Board, who has a leadership background within IBM.
AXSChat with Johny Cassidy (axschat.com)
Johny Cassidy is an experienced BBC journalist with a demonstrable track record in reaching underserved audiences. He’s a passionate advocate for digital accessibility and has written extensively on why all newsrooms need to understand better how different parts of the audience access content. He’s also the co-chair of the BBC’s disabled staff network BBC Ability where he strives to make the BBC a better workplace culture for all disabled staff. He’s also recently qualified as an accessibility professional having passed the International Association of Accessibility Professionals CPACC exam. He’s a Fellow of the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism at the University of Oxford as well as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.
Airbus reveals concept for wheelchair tie-down and companion travel (runwaygirlnetwork.com)
Airbus has developed a concept that would enable a wheelchair user to remain in their own chair onboard aircraft, whilst providing seating for their companions.
Disabled people are excluded from London planning systems (transportforall.org.uk)
London should be open to everyone, but new research from Transport for All reveals London's outdated planning system excludes the city's 1.2 million disabled people.
Mind the Gap: Accessibility is a Cultural Issue (accessiblelink.substack.com)
You can listen to the main article in this newsletter (read by me).
What have we wrought: A thought for Disability History Month (lucywebster.substack.com)
Hello, It’s currently Disability History Month and given, well, everything, I’ve been thinking about what it means to come from a long line of resistance.
Live Training Registration (purple-vest.net)
We invite you to take part in a series of professional webinars by the purple vest mission on different aspects on accessible emergency services.
Actress Linda Robson joins AbilityNet live webinar about seasonal (abilitynet.org.uk)
Loose Women TV presenter and Birds of A Feather star raises awareness of online scams at AbilityNet training session coming up on 4 December.
Bus Users UK responds to news of £1bn funding boost for England’s bus services (bususers.org)
Lydia Horbury, Bus Users UK Director for England, responds to the announcement that nearly £1bn in funding will be made available to deliver reliable and regular bus services across England.
A Personal Journey And Practical Guide To Managing Depression (criplife.co.uk)
This personal story provides insights and practical advice for managing depression, written by Wolfgang Wolf, a specialist with firsthand experience of navigating life after a stroke. Drawing on years of counselling individuals with disabilities and their families, Wolf explores the challenges of depression - its subtle onset, its debilitating effects, and the societal stigma surrounding it.
Join us in-person in Budapest or online on 20 and 21 November for the “Justice that Works: Leveraging Cooperation and Technology for Children, Disability Rights and Gender Equity” conference! The two-day hybrid event will focus on the rights of children and women with disabilities.
Join us in-person in Budapest or online on 20 and 21 November for the “Justice that Works: Leveraging Cooperation and Technology for Children, Disability Rights and Gender Equity” conference! The two-day hybrid event will focus on the rights of children and women with disabilities.
Beyond 6 Seconds: Neurodiversity stories from neurodivergent people: Fighting stigma about schizophrenia - with Michelle Hammer (sites.libsyn.com)
First impressions can take only 6 seconds to make! But if you’re neurodivergent, those quick judgments about you can be misleading.
Security guard sues Science Museum for allegedly denying suitable chair (theguardian.com)
Malina Nowicka, a cancer survivor with chronic back pain, works as security guard at London museum
The two sides of representation (myblurredworld.com)
Let's talk about the representation of disabled people in the media and what it means for society's perception of us.
As a disabled person, I don't need fixing (lifeofablindgirl.com)
Society has a tainted view on disability as something that needs to be fixed. But as a disabled person, I don’t need fixing.
Delta Introduces Enhanced Flight Map with Accessibility Features (assistivetechnologyblog.com)
Discover Delta Airlines' new accessible flight map, designed for an inclusive travel experience for passengers with low-vision disabilities.
This company’s mission is to make the world accessible to Deaf people. It all started at UC Berkeley’s Big Ideas Contest (universityofcalifornia.edu)
Ava is revolutionizing how the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community understands the world. It couldn't have happened without the spirit of innovation fostered at the University of California.
Quad Rugby Pioneer: Troy McGuirk's Legacy in the Sport (youtube.com)
USWAR wheelchair rugby champion Troy McGuirk reflects on his journey since his 2017 USWRA Hall of Fame induction, sharing insights on quad rugby's evolution and future.
Reel inclusion: disability in film and tv (disabilitydialogue.com.au)
This upcoming Open Dialogue will shine a light on how disability is shown in TV and film. Is it done right? How can we make it better?
International Journal of Image and Graphics (worldscientific.com)
IJIG emphasizes on efficient and effective image and graphics technologies and systems, and provides a central forum for scientists, researchers, engineers to exchange ideas.
Time to Address the Skills Gap in the Accessibility Industry (digitala11y.com)
Of late, many people have been reaching out to me asking if I could teach accessibility concepts. Some of them have even cracked job interviews after hastily studying crash courses. Now they seek my support during their employment. While I genuinely enjoy teaching, I do have very limited time in a day.
Developing anti-SLAPP policies for A11y Slack with Harvard Cyberlaw Clinic (marcysutton.com)
I developed policy recommendations for the A11y Slack workspace with the Harvard Cyberlaw Clinic to protect members against SLAPP lawsuits. I summarize the takeaways and legal advice from Harvard Cyberlaw's Web A11y Memorandum on defamation lawsuits.
A11y at Work: When Team Opinions Differ (melsumner.github.io)
Sometimes working with a larger team means that you’ll get more varied opinions about how something should be done. Now, this is good when the final result is one that covers more gaps and includes more use cases. But what about accessibility? WCAG is the conformance standard, but it’s the bare minimum. Specifications can be confusing or interpreted differently depending on your background. Teams have a lot of challenges, and accessibility is one of the big ones.
Agile Accessibility: Building Inclusivity into the Product Roadmap (2024.wpaccessibility.day)
Session Video Space for positioning sign language player Today, accessibility is not only a legal requirement but a moral obligation. As software teams embrace the agile method of software development, it is important for accessibility to be seamlessly incorporated into this iterative process too.
Inclusive R&D: Can it Become the Rule, Not an Exception? (scholarlykitchen.sspnet.org)
Inclusive publishing and design practices should be the status quo and not an afterthought.
Microsoft Expands Collaboration with Be My Eyes to Improve Accessible AI (maginative.com)
Be My Eyes will provide Microsoft with a unique video dataset featuring real-world scenarios faced by blind and low-vision individuals, including challenging lighting conditions and uncommon objects.
Uganda just unveiled one of the best apps for visually impaired students (face2faceafrica.com)
Because there aren't enough resources for over 1,000 pupils in Uganda, community developers are developing a way to give them access to technology.
How Tech And Vodka Converged To Make ‘The World’s First Spirits Brand’ To Use Accessible QR Codes (forbes.com)
The company said this endeavor is rooted in inclusivity, noting it makes its vodka more accessible to people who are Blind and low vision.
Go with the Flowsense (startupsmagazine.co.uk)
With many visually impaired women facing limited availability of accessible feminine hygiene products; the lack of autonomy and privacy can intensify the constant fear of staining clothes and amplify feelings of uncertainty and vulnerability in making hygienic decisions without supervision. When there are already taboos around menstruation, visually impaired women can feel embarrassment and a sense of shame because most aren’t able to manage this fully independently.
WCAG Website Accessibility Checker (a11y-ai.denkwerk.com)
A11y-AI is an experiment using the storytelling capabilities of generative AI to bring the impact of accessibility issues to life.
Accessible Metaverse: A Theoretical Framework for Accessibility and Inclusion in the Metaverse (mdpi.com)
The following article investigates the Metaverse and its potential to bolster digital accessibility for persons with disabilities. Through qualitative analysis, we examine responses from eleven experts in digital accessibility, Metaverse development, disability advocacy, and policy formulation. This exploration uncovers key insights into the Metaverse’s current state, its inherent principles, and the challenges and opportunities it presents in terms of accessibility.
Empowering Users: Developing Accessible Mobile Apps using React Native (commerce.nearform.com)
Robust technical accessibility strategies and best practices we implemented for a mobile voting application using React Native.
Inclusive Mindset Workbook by Project Lima (figma.com)
“How might we create an inclusive mindset to be mindful in our design decisions and consider inclusion?”
The Accessibility Metrics Scorecard template for scalable business impact (getstark.co)
Accessibility is a human right. And it’s also a key driver for business success and innovation if managed proactively alongside other critical performance indicators. This template provides a starting point on which metrics to measure, how to implement them in your organization’s operational processes, and enable your company to build inclusive products that drive business growth.
The Valuable 500 releases new data on Global Accessibility Awareness Day. (thevaluable500.com)
On Global Accessibility Awareness Day, international disability company, the Valuable 500, publishes new research revealing intensified efforts to improve disability inclusion within business.
Stop Recreating the Wheel: Local Government Organizations Sharing Accessibility Information (equalentry.com)
Local and state government organizations should be able to share information about the accessibility of various technology products they use. If a local government organization spends money to evaluate the accessibility of a product, it should make that information freely available to other local and state government organizations.
Revealing the Hidden Costs of Inaccessible Websites: Key Takeaways (accessiblemindstech.com)
In today's digital age, having an accessible website is not just a matter of inclusivity and social responsibility; it is also a crucial business imperative. Accessibility Testing Services have become essential to ensure websites are usable by everyone, including people with disabilities.
‘It has been a year since I felt joy’: Paul Sagar on coming to terms with the climbing accident that paralysed him (theguardian.com)
A 20-metre fall while mountaineering left the academic and philosopher with life-changing injuries. In this extract from his diary, his clear-eyed willingness to confront his situation leads to some breathtakingly honest reflections
Lord Blunkett injured after falling into gap at Westminster tube station (theguardian.com)
Labour peer, who is blind, calls for TfL action on ‘death trap’ platforms to fill the widest gaps and ensure staff presence
Collingwood Children’s Farm was a safe haven for many with disability. Now a mother and daughter are fighting to save a ‘unique’ program (theguardian.com)
When funding put an end to a volunteer schemes for NDIS participants and specialist schools, two advocates found a way to raise their voices
What It's Like to Be Disabled and Date (elle.com)
I don't want somebody to look "past" me in order to see me.
‘A Blatant Situation’ — New leaks on Canada's failing MAID safeguards (thenewatlantis.com)
Ontario’s euthanasia regulators have tracked 428 cases of possible criminal violations — and not referred a single case to law enforcement, say leaked documents.
Don’t ever assume autism researchers know what they’re doing. (ballastexistenz.wordpress.com)
This is my post for Blogging Against Disablism Day 2016. Like many of my posts, although it focuses on one specific situation (autism research) it applies to a much more broad set of circumstances if you look at it closely. I was originally planning on doing something much more ambitious for BADD, but reality (and the reality of being a disabled person) got in the way of that. So here is a different post that was fortunately written long in advance. I hope it can serve as a resource for a lot of people, because I’ve been asked about this test a lot, and I usually only manage to describe part of it. This is the first time to my knowledge that anyone has said all of these things at the same time in one place. Apologies for the lack of sourcing, but I’m a blogger, not an academic, and if I had tried to do that I would never have been able to write it. My inertia already prevented me doing what I wanted to do today, so I’m not going to let it prevent me from posting this.
2025 Leadership Exchange in Arts and Disability (LEAD) (web.cvent.com)
The Kennedy Center's Office of Accessibility is seeking proposals for the 2025 LEAD® Conference that approach accessibility from a human and civil rights perspective; provide practical information addressing current trends and opportunities in this field; actively engage participants through discussion and/or hands-on activities; explore accessibility for a variety of cultural arts organizations, including performing arts centers, museums, theaters, state arts agencies, parks, zoos, and arenas; and are designed for new, mid-career, and/or seasoned professionals.
IPC mourns the loss of wheelchair fencer Michal Dabrowski (paralympic.org)
Michal Dabrowski won the silver medal in the men's Sabre category B event and bronze in the men's Epée category B event at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
Breaking Barriers, Making History - Untold Stories of Disabled Renegades (support.whyy.org)
WHYY News presents a community gathering and film screening of the "American Masters: Renegades" series, which highlights people with disabilities who have made an impact on their communities. Philadelphia native Celestine Tate Harrington is one of those figures and a short documentary on her life will be shared along with a few others, followed by a panel discussion featuring community voices. This program is supported by PBS.
Where Trump HHS pick RFK Jr. stands on vaccines, abortion and LGBTQ+ issues (19thnews.org)
The department has vast power to influence an array of areas, including disease prevention and monitoring, LGBTQ+ health access and reproductive health.
In 2022, GADIM partnered with the international stock photography company, Shutterstock, and the World Institute on Disability (WID) to support its Disability – All In initiative, which provided production grants to artists with disabilities and allies to contribute authentic disability imagery to the Shutterstock Disability Collection.
Magnets (Matinee) (tickets.northcotesocialclub.com)
MAGNETS is the sparkling indie-pop project of multidisciplinary artist and disability advocate, Siobhan McGinnity. In 2023, she made a powerful return with her pop-rock anthem "Down,” appearing on "Best Of" lists from Rolling Stone to rage ABC. Shimmering singles "Speak" and "All About You" followed, earning praise from triple j unearthed, ABC breakfast, and a shortlist at the Berlin Music Video Awards.
Join us for the November 2024 Gathering! (artsaccess.com.au)
The Gathering is our monthly online forum for Deaf and Disabled artists and industry guests.
‘Home Is Where The Art Is’ Launch (artsaccess.com.au)
The Premiere of the new SRS Studios documentary!
Strategies for accessible communication for people with cognitive and mental difficulties (edf-feph.org)
Blog post by Vera Bonvalot, Vice president of the Brain Injured People and Families – European Confederation (BIF).
EU Passenger Rights – What happened in 2024? (edf-feph.org)
We have all claimed compensation for a delayed flight or train during our holidays and business trips. Although few of us can refer to the specific EU Regulation, we know that we have certain rights whenever we travel by plane, train, bus or ship.
A disability-inclusive Green Deal – What has been achieved so far? (edf-feph.org)
When the EU’s strategy for a “Green Deal” was published in December 2019, the European Disability Forum (EDF) had high hopes.
Few things you need to know about standards (edf-feph.org)
EDF and many of our members are increasingly following and contributing to the development of European Standards. These technical documents are crucial for the success of all sorts of policies, including, for example, legislation such as the European Accessibility Act.
How standards improve accessibility in ICT (edf-feph.org)
We hosted a joint webinar with Oracle on 19 September 2024 to discuss how standards facilitate accessibility of ICT products and services in a digital world and support the implementation of accessibility legislation.
Collaboration between Oracle and the European Disability Forum (edf-feph.org)
Oracle is committed to creating accessible technologies and products that enhance the overall workplace environment and contribute to the productivity of our employees, customers, and users.
G7 on disability: political will must be followed by action (edf-feph.org)
The first-ever G7 meeting on inclusion and disability at the ministerial level will take place under Italy’s presidency from 14 to 16 October.
G7’s Solfagnano Charter: ambitious commitments must lead to change (edf-feph.org)
Today, G7 members– under the Italian Presidency - adopted the Solfagnano Charter, a first-of-its-kind document that sets priorities on disability inclusion.
EDF scorecard on the Belgian Presidency of the Council – Accessibility accomplished, yet inconsistent involvement (edf-feph.org)
Belgium held the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from January 1 to June 30, this year. How disability-inclusive was the Belgian Presidency?
New research highlights perspectives of Ukrainian children in institutional care (edf-feph.org)
The current conflict in Ukraine has severely affected children and families, increasing poverty, displacement, and insecurity.
How to advocate for disability-inclusive AI (edf-feph.org)
We launched our guide “A disability-inclusive Artificial Intelligence Act: A guide to monitor implementation in your country”, during a webinar on 15 October.
European Disability Card law finally adopted! (edf-feph.org)
Today, the EU Council approved the final version of the text of the Directive on the European Disability Card and European Parking Card, clearing the last bureaucratic hurdles!
Discover the finalists for 2025 Access City Award! (edf-feph.org)
Today, the European Commission announced the 4 finalists of the 2025 Access City Award.
AccessibleEU Online Training - Accessible Technology Design (accessible-eu-centre.ec.europa.eu)
This AccessibleEU online training course aims to teach the basics of universal accessibility in digital environments.
The Mortifying Ordeal of being Online (aureliastclair.substack.com)
On being Online for work & balancing one's mental health
Project 2025 and the Disability Community (dredf.org)
People with disabilities need strong federal laws, policies, and programs that take their needs and aspirations into account. Project 2025 would eviscerate these standards and push disabled people back to an earlier, shameful era of isolation, exclusion, and institutionalization.
Project 2025 & Disabled People (kpfa.org)
Unless you are inclined to policy wonky-ness, it's hard to tell how the Project 2025 changes could affect people with disabilities. Fortunately for us, our guest for this program has the knowledge and experience to translate these bureaucratic maneuvers into the devilish details that are set to make our lives much more difficult.
South Park Timmy: The disabled character from 24 years ago getting me harassed today (bbc.com)
I have felt the shadow of Timmy since childhood - but never imagined the name would be hurled at me by strangers in my 30s.
Forced Intimacy (gracedowwrites.com)
Mia Mingus coined the term “forced intimacy,” which describes the frequent overstepping of boundaries by those who encounter disabled people. According to Mingus, this generally takes t…
Commitment to Our Community Post-Election (dredf.org)
In light of the recent election, the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund (DREDF), reaffirms our commitment to people with disabilities, disability rights, and disability justice. We have, and continue to envision a just world where all people, with and without disabilities, live full, joyful, pleasurable lives free of discrimination and oppression. We reaffirm our commitment to fighting for this future.
When disabled kids are left behind in school shooting drills (washingtonpost.com)
School emergency planning often fails to account for disabilities, with traumatic consequences for children and their parents.
National Caregivers Day 2024 - 5 Ways to Celebrate Caregivers (mesotheliomahub.com)
The National Caregivers Day (2/16/24) celebrates those who have supported people with medical issues like mesothelioma and other cancers.
Local organizations celebrate National Family Caregivers Month (paloaltoonline.com)
Caregivers can look to local groups like Peninsula Volunteers for resources and assistance
Consumer Directed Choices Honors 21 Exceptional Home Care Workers During National Family Caregivers Month (capitalregionchamber.com)
In conjunction with National Family Caregivers Month this November, Consumer Directed Choices (CDChoices) is honoring 21 home care workers with 2024 Constance Laymon Personal Assistant Recognition Awards.
It's National Family Caregivers Month (local.aarp.org)
November is National Family Caregivers Month, which seeks to shine a bright light on the more than 48 million American heroes, including 780,000 here in Massachusetts, helping care for their loved ones independently at home – where they want to be.
New project to track health of people with Down syndrome (learningdisabilitytoday.co.uk)
A new project will track the health of people with Down syndrome to improve quality of life and accelerate knowledge of health conditions that affect them.
How a disability activist inspired an award-winning Irish play (rte.ie)
Director Raymond Keane introduces his production of Christian O'Reilly's award-winning play No Magic Pill, a heartfelt and irreverent story of a disability rights activist.
“This technology has the potential to revolutionise beach accessibility”: How the Seatrac system is transforming sea access for Disabled travellers (cntraveller.com)
For the latest installment of Beyond Barriers, Cory Lee explains his experience trialling the Seatrac system in Greece
Primary school celebrates prestigious inclusivity award (ipswichstar.co.uk)
Broke Hall Community Primary School is celebrating after being made a Centre of Excellence for inclusivity.
Disability: "Men think I'm lucky they offer sex because I'm disabled" (bbc.com)
Holly says she wants to challenge negative stereotypes when it comes to people with disabilities dating.
Most disabled people “excluded” by unfit designs (designweek.co.uk)
Nearly three quarters of disabled adults have abandoned a product they were going to buy because it didn’t meet their needs.
Mitti Café to receive prestigious honour for advancing disability empowerment initiatives (moodiedavittreport.com)
Mitti Café is set to receive the prestigious President’s Award in the Highest Category for Organisations Empowering Persons with Disabilities (Divyang Sashaktikaran Hetu Sarvshreshth Sansthan).
State Library Exhibit Honors Disability Awareness (ladailypost.com)
New Mexico State Library (NMSL) invites the public to explore a unique exhibit honoring the history of disability awareness, open through Nov. 15, 2024.
Milwaukee Curling Club expands accessibility with adaptive curling (tmj4.com)
It may be the camaraderie, the competitiveness of curling, or the thrill of trying something new — but Bruce Jensen is hooked on the sport.
Brixton teen entrepreneur proves that physical disability is no obstacle to success (brixtonbuzz.com)
Khamani Edwards, a 17-year-old entrepreneur from Brixton, is defying the odds to prove that disability is no barrier to success.
EyesRo Launches on Indiegogo to Transform Eye Health Accessibility (einnews.com)
pixelRo Co., Ltd. Launches EyesRo on Indiegogo—Innovative App to Make Eye Health Accessible Anywhere, Anytime
Law degree, PhD on the cards for college dux despite challenges (nzherald.co.nz)
Luka Leusink has long harboured the goal of coming top of her year.
SOUTHPAW: THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JIM ABBOTT (docnyc.net)
Yankee Stadium has seen a plethora of legends over the franchise’s storied history, but few have left a legacy as unique as Jim Abbott’s.
LIGHT DARKNESS LIGHT (docnyc.net)
After living in darkness for nearly 40 years, Ian Nichols, a blind Anglican priest, becomes one of the first people in the world to receive an experimental bionic eye implant. At 76 years old, Nichols grapples with the profound change, as the groundbreaking scientific advancement offers hope alongside perplexing technical limitations. Audiences see what Nichols sees, as director Landon Van Soest presents impressionistic visualizations of Nichols’ enhanced sight, inviting questions about the nature of our perception. – Brandon Harrison
LEFT BEHIND (docnyc.net)
Left Behind illuminates the struggles of NYC schoolchildren with dyslexia, following a diverse group of parents who, frustrated by the lack of support, founded the Literacy Academy Collective. Driven by the stark reality that 1 in 5 people are dyslexic and nearly 50% of prison inmates share this diagnosis, these passionate advocates fight to de-stigmatize dyslexia and secure proper education for their kids. The film reveals the power of grassroots activism, offering an eye-opening and uplifting message of hope and resilience. – Karen McMullen
Being [Judy] Heumann: Champion for the Rights of the Disabled (lowellmilkencenter.org)
Judy Heumann was a trailblazing disability rights activist who played a key role in advancing policies like the Americans with Disabilities Act. Her lifelong advocacy for equal rights transformed accessibility and inclusion for people with disabilities worldwide.
Just Say Hi (justsayhischools.org)
Creating inclusive school cultures can be complex. Research shows that disability inclusion has immense positive benefits for all students and staff. “Just Say Hi!” is an award-winning (for DEI), disability inclusion, PK-12 schoolwide curriculum and program. It provides schools with an intentional, evidence-based pathway toward disability inclusion. While inclusion starts by just saying hi, it doesn’t end there: all students deserve to experience an ongoing sense of belonging in a welcoming, inclusive school community. Together, we can commit to making this happen.
The ‘Rolling Warrior’ Who Demanded Equality for People With Disabilities (kqed.org)
Judy Heumann spent her life taking on battles coast to coast to ensure dignity, public access and respect for all Americans.
Findings reveal just five percent of adults with a learning disability are in paid employment (attoday.co.uk)
Councils are calling for the needs of hundreds of thousands of working-age adults and lifelong disabled people requiring social care not to be overlooked in UK Government plans for a National Care Service.
How BODY MOVES International Inclusive Dance Festival brings accessibility in world of dance (citizen.co.za)
Set against the backdrop of Disability Awareness Month; the BODY MOVES International Inclusive Dance Festival takes place in November
More Than 40% of Disability Carers Have Disability Themselves – And They Need More Support (hellocare.com.au)
In Australia, more than 43% of primary carers have a disability themselves. Despite their significant contribution, many carers face health challenges, financial uncertainty, and a lack of adequate support.
Universal Design: The Essential Tool for Intergenerational Communities (nar.realtor)
The late architect, planner and leader Ron Mace created Universal Design as an approach to places and products that make life easier and more inclusive to everybody.
What it's like to be a poll worker with a disability (motherjones.com)
"The county calls me back every time, so I must be doing something right."
Geordie Travels Accessible Travel Blog (geordietravels.com)
On a mission to become the first wheelchair user to visit every single country in the world!
Paralympian leads effort to improve travel for disabled people (bbc.com)
The new taskforce will work to make flying accessible for all "from booking to baggage claim".
Most students will not automatically feel comfortable disclosing aspects of their identity to staff and faculty.
Navigating Disability Disclosure During Study Abroad in Iceland: When Not Disclosing Works (miusa.org)
Individuals must consider a variety of questions when evaluating whether to disclose a disability.
What Will People Say About You? (miusa.org)
He has never been afraid to stand out, when fear of community stigma silenced others. “What will people say about you?” They will probably say quite a bit about Fazli.
Design Thinking in Stockholm, Sweden (miusa.org)
A Latina bioengineering student from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor with learning and chronic health disabilities, discovered the power of design while abroad.
Taking up Space in France (miusa.org)
By negotiating accommodations for her chronic health disabilities with locals and health care providers, this Fulbright English Teaching Assistant learned to assert herself.
Living, Speaking, and Dreaming on the Mandela Washington Fellowship (miusa.org)
A participant with a stutter from Tanzania experienced what it was like to be heard on the Mandela Washington Fellowship of the Young African Leaders Initiative.
Understanding The World From Multiple Angles (miusa.org)
When he decided to study abroad for four weeks in Kyoto, Japan at Doshisha University, Ryuu Uchiha, an autistic alumnus of the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship, found more than professional and academic experience. He gained a new perspective on Japan while getting to know his family better.
From the US to Ireland with Hydrocephalus (miusa.org)
Staying in touch with one of our visitors throughout the years had always left the lingering desire to explore my Irish roots and travel in the opposite direction, but the trip was never a forgone conclusion.
A World Awaits You: People with Non-Apparent Disabilities Abroad (2024) (miusa.org)
Learn about the experiences of people with non-apparent disabilities abroad.
Gaelynn Lea: “If a venue doesn’t have a ramp for the stage, I’m playing on the floor” (songlines.co.uk)
Ian Brennan speaks to Gaelynn Lea, a musician and disability advocate from America’s heartland, about her 21st-century folk music
Drew Barrymore Meets Dad Dedicated to Shining a Light on Rett Syndrome through Adventure Video Series (thedrewbarrymoreshow.com)
Drew Barrymore sits down with A.J. Tesler, dad, and producer and director of the docuseries "Magnolia's Guide to Adventuring" which follows the Tesler family and other families affected by Rett Syndrome as they take on adventures across the US.
The Living Inclusion Network Café – 4 December 2024 (inklusion-leben.org)
Get inspired by smart solutions as we talk about the upcoming Global Disability Summit (GDS), 2025 in our next inclusion café. The Living Inclusion Network (LIN) is happy to announce that in this session, we have invited one of the co-hosts of the GDS and participants will get the chance to exchange closely with them.
ENIL’s Strategy after 2025: Have your say! (enil.eu)
At ENIL, we are working on our new Strategic Plan 2026 – 2029. The new plan will outline our goals and objectives for this period and how we are going to achieve them. This means defining what types of activities we are going to implement, who we are going to target and who we are going to work with.
Daruma Isn’t Your Typical Disability Film (newmobility.com)
Daruma is about friendship, fatherhood and found family, and bills itself as the first U.S. film starring two disabled leads in a story not about disability.
Census Hits Pause On Revising Disability Questions (disabilityscoop.com)
The Census will not make any changes to the way it counts the number of Americans with disabilities for at least two years following concerns that planned updates could lead to a severe undercount.
Want to tell stories at the intersection of climate change and disability justice? Here's what you need to know (reframingdisability.substack.com)
Tips by Aine Kelly-Costello, ideas for your next story, data and resources on climate change and disability justice
‘A Blatant Situation’ — New leaks on Canada's failing MAID safeguards (thenewatlantis.com)
Ontario’s euthanasia regulators have tracked 428 cases of possible criminal violations — and not referred a single case to law enforcement, say leaked documents.
Sign language plays key role in d/Deaf children's education, study shows (phys.org)
Ensuring d/Deaf children become bilingual in sign language and English should be a key priority for policymakers and teachers because this plays an important role in their education, a new study says.
Disability Designed: Navy Pier Reimagined (fun4thedisabled.com)
In my recent TEDx Talk, I asked, “What would the world look like if designed by the Disability Community?” Navy Pier—a place I love and one of Chicago’s iconic landmarks—came to mind. It’s already made strides in accessibility, like the adaptive Centennial Ferris Wheel, where wheelchair users can stay in their chairs.
Coalition of 350 disability organisations against Assisted Dying Bill (bbc.co.uk)
The bill proposes that anyone aged over 18 in England and Wales who has a terminal illness with six months or less to live should be allowed assistance to end their lives. Safeguards within the proposals include two doctors and a high court judge approving the request.
Inclusive Schools Week: Making Every Voice Matter (kit.org)
Inclusive Schools Week™ 2024, with the powerful theme “Every Voice Matters,” calls on educators, students, and parents alike to embrace a renewed commitment to inclusive education. Observed December 2-6, Inclusive Schools Week is more than a celebration. It’s a movement. The week offers a crucial opportunity to reflect on successes, acknowledge the challenges ahead, and inspire a deeper connection between schools and families.
Bicycles, Anxiety and Hope by Josh Hultman (invisibledisabilities.org)
I'm still struggling and experiencing panic attacks! I was hit with a wave of anxiety that I couldn't shake. My mind kept drifting back to the morning conversation with my son.
Lachi is ‘Mad Different’ (mydiversability.com)
Award-winning winning artist and advocate, Lachi, just released her new project MAD DIFFERENT.
Farewell to Steve Silberman (leftbrainrightbrain.co.uk)
For those who don’t know, Steve Silberman passed away recently. I’ve been trying to find a good way to write about his passing here. Steve wrote Neurotribes, a book which changed the way people see autism. For that I will always be grateful. He was a great science journalist, an expert on the Grateful Dead and other music and so much more.
Trump’s win could accelerate the privatization of Medicare (npr.org)
The former president's pending return to the White House could alter the very nature of Medicare, the nearly 60-year-old federal health care program.
Webtoon Collaborates On Tactile And Braille Comics (bleedingcool.com)
Webtoon collaborates on tactile and braille comics on the Dot Pad, with Yumi’s Cells, by Donggeon Lee, and Hooky, by Míriam Bonastre Tur.
Neurodiversity in Voiceover: Challenges, Access, and Authentic Representation (backstage.com)
We collaborated with Voice Trax West to discuss the state (and hopeful future!) of voice acting for neurodivergent performers.
The pathologizing of disability: Why academic medicine must prioritize accessibility (aamc.org)
Physicians with lived experience of navigating a career in medicine with a disability share their insights on the barriers built into medical education.
‘Been a long time since I felt that way’: Sexually transmitted infection numbers provide new hope (politico.com)
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released Tuesday shows meaningful declines in STI rates between 2022 and 2023.
Autism: 'I felt broken before being diagnosed at 70' (bbc.com)
An estimated 90% of autistic people over 50 have not received a diagnosis, research suggests.
Make Art or Die? For Some Veterans Creating Art Can Heal from Trauma (pbs.org)
Meet the veterans using art as therapy to recover from trauma, and the organizations helping them reach their artistic potential.
TJ Maxx Selling Apparel Created By Neurodiverse Artists (disabilityscoop.com)
Hundreds of TJ Maxx stores are offering apparel designed and created by people on the autism spectrum as part of a new partnership.
Disability Ambassador’s Thoughts on the Proposed End of Life Bill (amoraju.com)
On the 29th November, parliament will debate whether any adult with a life expectancy of six months or less can seek support in ending their life. As a disabled person who has been witness to the final days and moments of more disabled people than I would have ever imagined, I feel I have a qualified view on the matter.
Deconstructing Accessibility Statements (buttondown.com)
This is MY interpretation of the accessibility statement legal-ese. I am not your lawyer. You need to make up your own mind. With your own lawyer, who is someone other than me.
Disabled Dating Woes Star of New, Comedic Short “DERAILED” (respectability.org)
DERAILED was born out of the rage Rachel Handler felt when a subway station near her home base in New York City underwent major renovations while the opportunity to make it accessible went ignored.Writer, actress, director, and producer (sometimes all at the same time), Rachel Handler is a powerhouse. She has a special way of packing a punch with her narrative shorts — most of which are under six minutes long — by providing windows into experiences that are normal to some but never before thought about by others.
Why can I only ever enjoy sex with a partner when we’re in the ‘honeymoon stage’? (theguardian.com)
After the initial magic wears off, I struggle with intimacy. I’m starting to think there’s something wrong with me
AccessAbility Arts: Celebrating Creativity And Inclusion Through Community Events For All Abilities (criplife.co.uk)
We share five upcoming AccessAbility Arts events for you to revel in over the next couple of months and into the New Year.
Reforming EU State Aid law to restrict subsidies to sheltered workshops (enil.eu)
Services for disabled people that segregate, rather than create inclusion are very common throughout the EU. We know that 1,4 million disabled persons live institutions. In Germany and France approximately 470 000 disabled people work in sheltered workshops. For now, there are no figures for the entire EU but given the high number in only two countries, the total count must be high.
We Traveled WAY North and Cole Got In TROUBLE (youtube.com)
To learn more about the beautiful and accessible North of North resort in Ely, MN
Musings of a Girl Cleaning Her Room (retrospectivelily.wordpress.com)
(written with a Carrie-Bradshaw-narrating-her-life-while-gazing-out-the-window-of-an-NYC-apartment-wistfully vibe, but a suburban version) Recently, I’ve been reorganizing some things. Anyone…
Crisis calls from LGBTQ+ youth spiked by 700 percent after Election Day (19thnews.org)
LGBTQ+ youth are afraid, confused, and anxious about the outcome of the election, the Trevor Project said. Here are some resources.
Frame Shift at Sydney Opera House (aarts.net.au)
Accessible Arts and Sydney Opera House presents a curated selection of ground-breaking films and video artworks by artists with disability or who are d/Deaf. Featuring eleven original works which explore themes of intersectional identity, creative expression and social connectedness, Frame Shift amplifies the collaboration of filmmakers and artists with and without disability to disrupt narrative and forge new creative futures.
How we developed sign language for ten of the trickiest climate terms (bignewsnetwork.com)
Rather than literally translating English words experts have focused on visually representing the underlying concepts for these terms
This young engineer built an affordable electronic braille reader (snexplores.org)
Thermo Fisher JIC finalist Yash Mehta got inspired to make a better braille device after visiting a school for blind students in Old Delhi, India.
Pay first, deliver later: Some pregnant people are being asked to prepay for their baby (19thnews.org)
Pregnant people are being asked to make large cash payments months before they deliver their babies. Some patient advocates worry this billing practice allows providers to hold treatment hostage.
AAC and stimming – understanding the role of stimming in communication (assistiveware.com)
Discover the connection between stimming and AAC. Learn how repetitive motions influence communication for users of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
Students With Disabilities Can Apply For $500 Cash Grants By Friday (blockclubchicago.org)
This Friday is the last day to apply for the funds, which will support students disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tiffany A. Yu (tiffanyyu.com)
I’m on a mission to increase intersectional disability representation and democratize visibility.
2024 TASH Conference Schedule & Directory (2024tashconference.sched.com)
Each year, the TASH Conference brings together our constituents to share resources and success stories, learn about field-driven best practices, and network within a community engaged in shared values. The Conference is attended by passionate leaders, experts, and advocates from every corner of the disability community. Conference attendees are influential in their fields and communities, and play an important role in the provision of services and supports for individuals and organizations around the world; and include professors and researchers from leading institutions; those involved in local, state, and federal governments and public policy; special and general educators, and school administrators; self-advocates, adult service providers; students, family members, and many others. This year’s conference theme is Celebrate Together: Let the Good Times Roll!
The Crown Estate and Grosvenor call for improved accessibility and inclusivity standards, ahead of Purple Tuesday (ablemagazine.co.uk)
The Crown Estate and Grosvenor have launched a new report that sheds light on the challenges faced by people with physical and hidden disabilities when accessing and working within buildings and public spaces across the UK.
This LA parish makes sure God’s voice is heard for deaf Catholics (angelusnews.com)
Before Holy Angels was established, local deaf Catholics struggled to find a place to practice their faith in ASL.
RNIB blind ambassador aiming high to make the world accessible (bbc.com)
Claire Sisk says despite being blind "you can still live a fun and fulfilled life".
Access for All: Integrating Accessibility (youtube.com)
Andrea Jennings hosts this pop culture show that captures authentic accessibility and disability culture.
Thanks for all the great links Raul!!!