News and issues on the disabled 4 Nov 2024
Azmi Anuar
Contents
1. The Spoon USA - Brava’s Latest Update Enables Blind and Low-Vision Users to Cook Independently With The Light-Powered Oven
2. Daily Journal - For a blind runner, the New York marathon is about 'vibrations'
3. Business Traveler USA - Delta Debuts Accessible Inflight Map for Vision-Impaired Passengers
4. Gulf Times - Hour and Hour programme holds activities for visually impaired
5. International Sambo Federation - An exhibition on the history of the development of SAMBO for the Blind and Visually Impaired will be held at the World SAMBO Championships
6. Punch Nigeria - People often doubt my abilities because I’m visually impaired
7. The New Indian Express - Delhi HC seeks CBFC reply on compliance with disability-friendly guidelines
8. WISH-TV USA - New leader at Indiana School for the Blind shares journey, plans for upgrades
9. SCMP Hong Kong - Hong Kong Blind Union makes sports more inclusive with audio description
10. Business Insider - My company partnered with a football club to install the first permanent 5G-powered headset system for visually impaired fans
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1. The Spoon USA - Brava’s Latest Update Enables Blind and Low-Vision Users to Cook Independently With The Light-Powered Oven1 Nov 2024
This week, Brava, a company that makes countertop consumer appliances that cook with light, has announced the launch of the first major update to the software since 2021.
The biggest change announced is the ability to fully access and control the Brava through the app. Unlike previous versions, which required some interaction with the Brava’s touchscreen, users can now manage ingredient selection, doneness, and recipe instructions entirely through the Brava app, reducing reliance on the oven’s interface. This update is particularly impactful for those with physical limitations, allowing them to enjoy the Brava’s convenience and precision with ease.
While full app control of an appliance is something some folks make like (and others may hate), what’s neat about this update is that Brava chose to also enable new features that make the Brava more accessible to individuals who are blind or have low-vision.
As can be seen in the video below, the key advancement hear is the Brava app works with screen readers, which are digital assistants that work with apps that allow those that are blind or have low vision to navigate.
“Screen readers so it changes the behavior of your touchscreen device, “said Fernando Macias, Access Technology Specialist at San Francisco Lighthouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired. “So that everything you touch on the screen, (the screen reader) will read out loud, and that is what enables us to navigate, especially if you’re a blind or have have low vision.” Brava worked with San Francisco Lighthouse to enable the screen reader features.
In addition to greater accessibility features for low-vision users and full control of the appliance via the app, the updated software provides users with more granular info on light intensity and duration parameters that drive each recipe, empowering them to modify or create recipes with greater insight.
Long-time Spoon readers may recall that The Spoon was the first press org to get a look at the Brava back in 2018. Just over a year after the Brava was introduced to the work, Middleby acquired the company. Interestingly, Brava’s founding team (Thomas Cheng, Daniel Yue, and John Pleasants) are all still with the company five years after the acquisition, a sign that Middleby continues to invest and show interest in the platform.
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2. Daily Journal - For a blind runner, the New York marathon is about 'vibrations'1 Nov 2024
Jasmine Murrell won't be able to marvel at the stunning skyline or the massive crowds while she takes part in her first New York City marathon on Sunday, but the blind runner intends to feed off the race's "vibrations."
Her husband, Kevin Orcel, who also has glaucoma but at an earlier stage, is along for the ride.
"We'll be at the starting line together, and then after a mile or two, she's gone," the 33-year-old said with a smile.
Murrell has already completed a marathon, in Houston back in January, while Orcel has only a dozen half-marathons under his belt.
Each runner will be accompanied by two volunteer guides from Achilles International, a global organization that helps people with disabilities participate in athletics.
One of Murrell's two partner-racers has been training with her.
"It's important," said the 36-year-old Murrell. "I feel like we have the connection. We understand each other. They already know what to call out and what's the best way to communicate with me."
Murrell can only see "shadows and shapes" on her right side and nothing on the left.
Orcel is able to track "figures and movements" but can't make out writings. "So I tell my guys, always read the signs to me, a lot of them are pretty funny, and they can be pretty motivational."
As for Murrell, "It's going to be the vibrations of the crowds and then cheering and all of that noise, it'll translate into stimulation, as vibrations, so I'll still be able to feel the energy and get that rush of adrenaline."
- 'Pretty freeing' -
Tianna Biscone, a guide from Achilles, said she is sure to "always ask preferences first" regarding how, and what, runners want to communicate.
"For some people, running is really difficult and they just want to focus on their run," said the 26-year-old data analyst, who will assist a marathon runner Sunday in New York.
"It's so fun, especially during a marathon, to call out funny signs or funny costumes that we see... helping them experience it in a different kind of way."
Being part of a crowd of 50,000-plus runners when visually impaired or blind sounds like a challenge, especially in New York, where many participants have limited or no understanding of English.
"My first run I ever went was at 22, and I had never moved without my cane," recalled Francesco Magisano, Achilles' director for the New York City region.
"Trusting that nothing was in front of me, and just running into nothingness, it's just one of the scariest thing I've ever done."
Francesco, who is blind, overcame that, but "it took a few months of consistent running to get to the point where I felt comfortable enough that I could sort of relax a little bit."
He has since run a marathon in three hours and 30 minutes and was the first person with disabilities to compete in an Ultraman event -- the equivalent of several grueling Iron Man triathlons packed into one.
Traditionally, a visually impaired runner is linked to a guide by a tether. A second partner runs just ahead to track any obstacles or hazards.
"Last year I didn't realize I was tired until mile 25" of a 26.2-mile marathon, said Sarah Luposello, an assistant elementary school principal and an Achilles volunteer. "It was just so much concentration."
A guide must constantly check the course ahead, she added. "Is there a path? Is there a pothole? Is there a manhole cover or banana peels? Is there a water station?"
For Tianna Biscone, the challenge is unique. "I always lose my voice after I'm guiding a marathon, because you're talking the entire time," she said. "That's why I love it so much."
As for the visually impaired athletes, getting used to running can transform the experience from scary to exhilarating.
"As a blind person, crossing the road is probably one of the scariest things you're doing," said Orcel. "So being able to be out and running on the road, and knowing that the path is protected, I think that's pretty freeing."
His wife agreed.
"It's just fun," Murrell said. "Just to not have to think about anything. All I have to do is just run and get to the finish line."
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3. Business Traveler USA - Delta Debuts Accessible Inflight Map for Vision-Impaired Passengers1 Nov 2024
Delta Air Lines has updated its seatback flight map across most of its aircraft, with the new design now more accessible for travelers with low-vision disabilities.
The Atlanta-based airline announced that its highly popular onboard flight map has had a makeover with its visually impaired passengers in mind, enhancing its commitment to improving the travel experience for its disabled customers. The inclusive flight map has been rolled out on over 650 aircraft, with most of Delta’s record 165,000 seatback screens now offering the new design.
The new maps include a range of new features, including high-contrast visuals, with a choice of bright colors on a dark background or greyscale, ensuring high visibility and reducing eye strain, while all text and icons have also been enlarged.
It’s also designed to help color-blind passengers by using patterns, textures, and colors to differentiate between areas and map elements. Map labeling has also been streamlined, with countries, borders, and major cities taking priority in order to reduce clutter. Meanwhile, passengers can adjust the map to their preferred visual perspective by using zoom and pan controls.
Voice Narration on the Works
Delta also confirmed that voice narration will be added to future versions of the in-flight map, using AI and flight data to provide visually impaired passengers with audio updates of the flight’s location, arrival time, and points of interest.
“No one better connects the world than Delta,” said Ekrem Dimbiloglu, Managing Director of Customer Experience for In-Flight Entertainment, Delta Studio, and Wi-Fi at Delta Air Lines.
“To truly fulfill that promise, we must ensure every customer can connect with their journey in a way that enhances their experience and makes them feel valued and cared for. We are proud to be the first airline to launch this technology, setting the standard for inclusive travel experiences across the industry.”
The Most Popular Entertainment
According to Delta, its flight map is the most popular feature of its in-flight entertainment system, with around 45 percent of its passengers engaging with the map across their flights—more than those who enjoy any other options, including movies, live TV, audio, and games.
The airline also claims that its previous flight map already met all American with Disabilities Act (ADA) and European Accessibility Act (EAA) standards, but it worked together with its own Advisory Board on Disability to further enhance the experience for users based on customer feedback.
“It’s exciting as a visually impaired person that Delta is making the flight map more accessible for low-vision users,” said Thomas Panek, Chair of Delta’s Advisory Board of Disability and President of Guiding Eyes for the Blind. “By making flight maps more accessible to low-vision users, Delta is making the experience better for all travelers.”
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4. Gulf Times - Hour and Hour programme holds activities for visually impaired1 Nov 2024
The Hour and Hour programme
has organised a number of activities and events in collaboration with Al Noor
Centre for the Blind, reflecting commitment to social responsibility, a
statement said.
The activities over four days, included
interactive workshops as part of the celebrations for the White Cane Safety Day
and the World Sight Day. Various groups were formed. The innovation group
encouraged university and school students interested in creating assistive
tools that enable visually impaired individuals to share their experiences more
effectively.
Through this group, the centre aimed to
encourage creativity among young people and invite them to participate in
developing innovative solutions that meet the needs of the visually impaired.
This group provided a space for interaction between students and specialists,
allowing them to exchange ideas and expertise.
The event also included innovative artistic
activities, where members of the Rehabilitation and Vocational Training Section
created an artwork symbolising the white cane, the essential tool upon which
the visually impaired rely in their daily lives. Besides being a work of art,
it symbolised identity and strength, reflecting the efforts of visually
impaired individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their ambitions.
The workshops included sensory activities that
enhance movement and orientation skills, giving participants the opportunity to
develop their abilities in self-direction and control over their surroundings,
to improve their independence. The event also featured awareness activities
aimed at raising awareness about visual impairments and the importance of
community support for individuals with disabilities, helping to remove the
psychological and social barriers they face.
School students were invited to participate in
the event, fostering a spirit of cooperation between different generations and
helping to spread awareness about visual impairment issues. Tamani al-Yafei,
CEO of Hour and Hour programme, appreciated the role played by Al Noor Centre
for the Blind and thanked its leadership, including executive director Meshal
bin Abdullah al-Nuaimi and the Community Awareness Department's Implementation
and Follow-Up Section head Munira al-Athbah.
"At the 'Hour and Hour' programme, we
believe that strengthening community partnerships directly contributes to
building a more inclusive and diverse society, fostering the human values that
unite us all," she added.
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5. International Sambo Federation - An exhibition on the history of the development of SAMBO for the Blind and Visually Impaired will be held at the World SAMBO Championships1 Nov 2024
The exhibition "SAMBO for the Blind and Visually Impaired: from the first training sessions to the World Championship" will be held at the 2024 World Championship arena in Astana. Visitors will be able not only to view the exhibition, but also to receive consultations on the development of this discipline in their clubs and countries.
As the head of the FIAS Commission for Athletes with Disabilities Roman Novikov said, qualified trainers and teachers of the blind will work at the exhibition, who will share all the necessary information with visitors.
"Consultations will also include training in ways of effectively interacting with a blind person, a demonstration of photo, video and information material with commentary," said Roman Novikov.
According to him, the information in the video and on the stands reflects the history and experience of the development of Blind SAMBO, methods of teaching the Blind SAMBO techniques.
"In addition to informing about the new discipline of SAMBO, it is also important to increase the motivation of the blind and visually impaired sambists themselves. So that they want to share their experience with the community, take a more active position in the development of SAMBO, and, if necessary, take on organizational work," Novikov added.
The exhibition will also feature tactile models that will allow the blind and visually impaired to receive information about what is happening on the mat during a SAMBO bout – this is the first experience of making such aids.
The 2024 World SAMBO Championships will be held in the capital of the Republic of Kazakhstan on November 8-10. The tournament will feature 31 sets of medals in Sport SAMBO among men and women, Combat SAMBO among men and women, and Blind SAMBO among men in the SVI-1 class (totally blind athletes). The disciplines of Combat SAMBO among women and Blind SAMBO were included in the program of the World Sambo Championships for the first time in history.
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6. Punch Nigeria - People often doubt my abilities because I’m visually impaired2 Nov 2024
After losing his sight at the tender age of four, 29-year-old Trust Inonse faced a world filled with challenges. As a visually impaired communication specialist, rather than drown in self-pity, he transformed his struggles into strength, forging a successful career in a field where many doubted his ability to thrive. He shares his remarkable journey with Temitope Adetunji
Were you born with visual impairment or was it a condition that developed later?
I lost my sight when I was four years old. Growing up wasn’t an ideal condition anyone would have wished for, but it also wasn’t the worst. I was fortunate to have an incredibly supportive family and good friends. My family was always there for me, creating a comfortable and encouraging environment. Unlike others who were hidden away by their families or never introduced to visitors, my parents were proud of me and included me in everything they did back then.
I was a very curious child, very eager to learn and explore. People loved being around me, and I felt free to ask questions to understand the world around me. That’s still me—curious and eager to learn.
How long have you been a communication specialist?
I have been a communication specialist for about five years now, collaborating with various brands in both full-time and consulting roles. It’s been a dynamic five years in the field, and I love it. Talking, interacting, and connecting with people are my strengths. Wherever I go, I aim to bring out my best to make a meaningful impact.
My work goes beyond journalism; I’m involved in communication strategy, branding, PR, media relations, and accessibility consultancy. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with top brands, helping them achieve their communication and marketing goals through effective media strategies and the network I’ve cultivated.
Which schools did you attend?
I started with the Pacelli School for the Blind and Partially Sighted Children in Surulere, Lagos. From there, I proceeded to the Federal Government College, Ijanikin, also in Lagos, for my senior secondary education, after completing junior secondary at Model College, Agbowa, Ikosi. I gained admission to study Mass Communication at the University of Lagos in 2014 and graduated in 2018. Thankfully, there were no strikes during my time!
What challenges did you face while in school?
One of the biggest hurdles was accessing resources tailored for visually impaired students. At Unilag, I once asked a lecturer if his book could be made available in audio or Braille format, and he told me I would have to handle that myself. Studying for exams often meant relying on friends to read to me, as Braille books were costly. I had to prioritise which materials to turn to Braille, weighing their importance against the expense. It was a constant balancing act that taught me resilience.
Relying on friends to help with reading and recording for future reference was incredibly challenging. It wasn’t easy, and unfortunately, it affected some of my grades. But here I am, making the best of what I have.
My growth in life has come from being curious, asking questions, reading whatever I could, and just diving into knowledge.
Was there someone or an experience that inspired you to pursue your dreams?
Yes, quite a lot. Many people encouraged me not to let my condition weigh me down. My mum was a big inspiration. When I lost my sight, she was deeply disappointed and pitied herself, but I wanted to prove to her that I would be okay. She was concerned about my future and how I would succeed and manage independently, but I always reassured her. Now, she’s proud of how far I’ve come.
Another major inspiration for me is seeing others with disabilities struggling on the streets or begging. I told myself that such would never be my situation. I didn’t want to be the person asking for money or favours; if I reached out, it should be for an opportunity. I remember meeting a top executive in a telecoms company who asked me what I wanted from him. I told him I didn’t need anything other than a chance to show what I could do for his organisation. I submitted a proposal, and he accepted it and paid me for my services. This mindset is central to my work; to focus on creating value, not asking for favours.
How do you raise awareness about disability?
I make use of my social media platforms. I’m dedicated to changing perceptions of disability and showing the world that we’re capable of so much more than just struggling. I even hope to star in a Hollywood movie that portrays disabled people positively, rather than the usual tragic or helpless stereotypes.
How has your family supported you on this journey?
My family has been incredibly supportive, including my mum and my siblings. I’m the second child, with three sisters—one older and two younger ones. My dad has been instrumental to my success. He believed in me and always encouraged me to aim high. When I graduated from the University of Lagos with a 2:1, he was disappointed because he felt I could have achieved a first-class if I’d been a bit more focused, and he was probably right. He’s always supported my goals and is my biggest fan.
What did you enjoy most about your career?
I’ve transitioned from broadcasting to leading a tutorial team at the station before becoming a communication specialist. What I’ve always loved about communication is the chance to make an impact. Being that voice people listen to and trust is incredibly fulfilling.
I’m constantly driven to ensure that the messages I put out there are accurate and make positive impacts. The positive influence that media and communication can have on people fuels me. That’s why I wake up every day looking for the next opportunity to make a difference, whether for brands, individuals, or just personally. It makes life worth living.
When I was a broadcaster, I used to work for Lagos Talks 91.3 FM, but now I lead the editorial team of the organisation. I realised how much I enjoyed sharing knowledge. I’m someone who loves to communicate, and it’s truly fulfilling to see people appreciate what I have to offer.
What role has friendship played in your life?
My friends have been amazing. From school to university and now at work, I’ve been and am still surrounded by incredible people who understand and accept me fully. They see me for who I am—my stubbornness, my humour, and my drive.
They never treat me differently because of my disability. My friends are always pushing me forward, encouraging me to take on new challenges. Just before this interview call, one of them insisted I apply for a fellowship. When I hesitated, he was there, encouraging me to go for it. This support is mutual; I push them just as much to be the best versions of themselves. It’s a win-win, where everyone feels valued and motivated.
How do you handle misconceptions or stereotypes about visual impairment within your social circles?
Stereotypes exist because people don’t have the full picture. Some may assume blind people are helpless or rude because that’s what they’ve experienced. However, I believe the best way to change those misconceptions is by simply being myself and showing them a different reality. Recently, I asked a friend what she thought about blind people before she met me. She admitted she used to see blind people as dependent, but now she knows better. She sees that we are capable and resilient. I don’t argue or try to prove anything; I just live my life openly. I use my social media channels—Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok—to showcase my advocacy. It’s about demonstrating that everyone’s abilities are different and that differences can be powerful. Ultimately, it’s about being authentic. The more I can be true to myself, the greater the impact I can make.
What are some of the biggest adjustments you’ve had to make in your daily life due to your visual impairment?
Well, to be honest, there haven’t been many adjustments because, as I mentioned, I lost my sight when I was very young. This has been my way of life for as long as I can remember. I’ve always had to adapt daily to living without sight; it’s just my lifestyle.
How do you approach tasks or activities that most people take for granted, like navigating new spaces or using technology?
Technology is an interesting topic; it could even be a whole other interview! It all depends on tools like screen readers. For instance, on iPhones, there’s VoiceOver, and on Androids, there’s TalkBack. These features help me read what’s on the screen and navigate apps. For example, if I touch Facebook, it reads “Facebook” to me. However, accessibility is something everyone should pay attention to.
Many websites and apps aren’t optimised for screen readers, which can make navigation difficult. That’s part of my work; I test apps to ensure they’re accessible. I work with the Mastercard Foundation as an inclusive communication consultant, focusing on making products accessible to people with visual impairments. I help evaluate if the technology can be easily used by individuals who are blind or have low vision, ensuring they can navigate without barriers.
Can you describe a situation where you’ve had to be particularly innovative to overcome a challenge?
Absolutely. For instance, when I cook, I’ve had to find ways to ensure safety without being able to see. People might rely on visual cues, like noticing when something turns brown, but I depend on changes in smell or sound. For example, when water boils, I listen for the bubbling. I rely heavily on my other senses to understand what’s happening. Even walking on the road with my cane, I sometimes have to pause to gauge my surroundings to ensure I’m on the right path. It’s about using all my senses to compensate for the lack of sight.
What has been one of the toughest challenges you’ve faced, personally or professionally?
Convincing people that I can do the job is still one of the biggest challenges. People often doubt my abilities because of my blindness. But with every opportunity, I aim to prove them wrong and show that I can deliver just as well, if not better. I remember interviewing and submitting proposals. The person I was working with hadn’t seen my face, but they were enthusiastic. They said, “Oh, this is brilliant,” and during a cultural meeting, they loved the idea and wanted to finalise the deal. When I went to the office to sign it off, they started making excuses, saying there was something left to sort out and that they’d get back to me. To this day, I haven’t heard from them.
Convincing people that I can do the job is often challenging. In interviews, people appreciate my ideas and responses, but once they meet me in person, they hesitate. Someone once told me, “I trust what you’re saying; I like your interview, but I don’t believe you’ll be able to do the job.” I was thinking, “You just confirmed my interview was great and my assignments were excellent, but you don’t trust my ability to complete the project?” This is a recurring challenge, and it’s heartbreaking for both me and the people around me. But I hope the narrative changes soon.
Is there a personal achievement that you’re particularly proud of?
Public speaking is part of my career, so it counts. I’m an award-winning British parliamentary debater. I’ve debated and judged tournaments internationally—in Ghana, Kenya, and even at events in Australia. Aside from that, I don’t consider getting married an achievement; it’s something that just happened, not something I’d define as a milestone.
How did you meet your wife?
We met at the University of Lagos while studying mass communication. It was pretty straightforward.
Did you have to convince her family, or was there any resistance?
No, I’m a firm believer in not having to convince anyone. I told her to talk to her parents first because I didn’t want a situation where I’d need to “sell” myself. Thankfully, her family was supportive, and everything went smoothly.
How do you stay motivated, especially when faced with setbacks?
The drive to make an impact motivates me. Every day on earth is an opportunity to create change, and as long as I’m making a difference, I have to keep going. Even if things don’t change in my lifetime, what I do might open doors for someone else. I want others to walk into places I’ve been and be trusted because of the example I set.
How has your visual impairment shaped your identity, and how do you define yourself beyond it?
My identity is not defined by my disability. I’ve worked to let people see my abilities, not out of empathy or sympathy, but because of my competence. I refuse opportunities that come just because of my disability; I only want to be chosen if I’m genuinely the best fit. My personality and values stand alone, without the influence of any disability.
Do you see yourself as a role model?
I don’t actively consider myself a role model. I live my life truthfully and responsibly, and if others choose to look up to me, that’s great. But my goal isn’t to be a role model; it’s to be authentic and do what’s right. If people find value in that, I’m honoured.
What message would you like to share with others, especially people living with disabilities?
For people with disabilities, my advice is simple: keep your chin up, stay resilient, and be true to yourself. Don’t seek sympathy, because anything gained from sympathy doesn’t bring genuine respect. When people pity you, they don’t respect you. Aim for respect; let people appreciate your skills, intelligence, and individuality. I always want people to respect my craft, my intellect, and who I am. Respect, not sympathy, should be the goal. If people with disabilities strive for respect rather than sympathy, everyone will benefit, and we’ll emerge stronger.
What personal goals do you have for the future beyond your career?
Right now, I’m using social media to advocate and share insights on disability. I’m trying to reach a larger audience to share my messages, videos, photos, and articles. I look forward to more opportunities on bigger platforms to discuss disability inclusion, communication, and liberation. Honestly, I’d love to impact industries like Bollywood through films and entertainment. I’m open to any platform where I can speak out, and I’m starting with what I can on using my social media platforms. All my goals are tied to growth and making money, honestly. I want to travel extensively, retire early, and engage with people worldwide. I aspire to work with the United Nations someday and build a reputation in the global communication and disability community. I’m not necessarily aiming to be a household name.
What can people do better when interacting with those living with disabilities?
Ask questions. Don’t assume. If you want to help someone with a disability, ask, “How can I assist you?” This goes a long way because assuming doesn’t meet actual needs. Also, when designing buildings, apps, or equipment, consider if they’re accessible for people with disabilities. For example, some microwaves aren’t usable for me due to their design. I’d love to shop without worrying about whether I’ll be able to use what I buy. I know it can be costly to make spaces and products accessible for those with disabilities.
If you could change one thing about society’s approach to disability, what would it be and why?
The mindset. People need to ask questions and involve individuals with disabilities in their processes. Whether it’s in technology, architecture, or sports, including us from the beginning is crucial to optimizing accessibility. For instance, sports like football actively consider accessibility, which is why I follow and analyse it on the radio.
This kind of optimisation is essential for fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can participate fully and confidently. Dedication to amplifying voices in the disability community resonates with this approach. By advocating for these changes, one is contributing to a broader conversation about inclusion that can inspire others to rethink their perspectives and practices.
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7. The New Indian Express - Delhi HC seeks CBFC reply on compliance with disability-friendly guidelines2 Nov 2024
NEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court has asked the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to present its stance on a plea that aims to ensure films released post-September 14 strictly adhere to accessibility standards for individuals with hearing and visual impairments.
The court’s notice was issued by Justice Sanjeev Narula in response to a petition filed by Suman Bhokray, a visually impaired person, urging authorities to enhance inclusivity in public film screenings.
The petition highlights that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, on March 15, had introduced the “Guidelines for Accessibility Standards in the Public Exhibition of Feature Films in Cinema Theatres for Persons with Hearing and Visual Impairment.”
This regulation mandates that films certified in multiple languages provide essential accessibility features, such as closed captions and audio descriptions, for viewers with disabilities, effective from September 14.
Representing Bhokray, the petitioner’s counsel raised concerns about recent releases, notably Vettaiyan and Martin, which reportedly lacked complete integration of these accessibility features, signaling potential non-compliance with prior court directives on mandatory accessibility measures.
The plea further suggested implementing an “accessibility application” compatible across platforms, which would standardise the provision of closed captions and audio descriptions for certified films, enhancing the viewing experience for disabled audiences.
The CBFC, however, noted that theatres have been granted a two-year period to fully integrate the guidelines. The court has granted four weeks for the CBFC and others to submit their responses, with the next hearing scheduled for January 21.
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8. WISH-TV USA - New leader at Indiana School for the Blind shares journey, plans for upgrades1 Nov 2024
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — As part of a monthly “Morning Bell” series, News 8 spotlights local schools to showcase unique programs and opportunities.
For November, James Michaels, the new superintendent of the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired sat down for an interview.
Michaels, a former student of the school, is stepping into the role as superintendent after more than two decades since the last new appointment to the position.
Reflecting on his journey, Michaels shared that his connection to the Indiana School for the Blind runs deep. Born with cone-rod dystrophy, a congenital eye condition that results in progressive vision loss, Michaels attended public school initially, but he quickly realized he felt different from his peers.
“As a student, I had to sit closer to the board and hold my book closer to read,” Michaels said. “I didn’t want to be different, and I think most kids with disabilities feel that way. But then, when I found the Indiana School for the Blind, I realized I wasn’t so different after all. We all just have to do things in a slightly different way to reach our goals and live our dreams.”
The school provided a community of students facing similar challenges, smaller class sizes, and resources specifically designed for students with visual impairments. “That experience was powerful and helped me believe in myself,” Michaels said.
Now, Michaels has a unique opportunity to inspire the next generation of students and reinforce the message that they, too, can achieve anything they set their minds to. And this mission will soon have a new setting: the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired is set for a major upgrade.
The school, alongside the Indiana School for the Deaf, is about to undergo a significant renovation of its historic 63-acre campus on North College Avenue, where it has been located for nearly a century. The state-funded project will deliver a state-of-the-art facility for both schools over the next four years.
While construction is underway, the Indiana School for the Blind has temporarily relocated to Devon Avenue, where programs continue to run full speed. “We’re still moving forward with all of our programming and have some wonderful things in store for our students,” Michaels said.
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9. SCMP Hong Kong - Hong Kong Blind Union makes sports more inclusive with audio description2 Nov 2024
A pilot audio description service in Hong Kong is helping visually impaired people enjoy sporting events. Offered by the Hong Kong Blind Union, the service promotes equality for people with disabilities.
The union said it had offered the service at 105 sports events over the past 4½ years. Events included the Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament and the Hong Kong Open Badminton Championships. The number of users who attended these events was more than 1,200.
Audio description provides information about the key visual elements in films, television shows, plays and sports events. This information is useful for those who are visually impaired.
The union said a lack of public knowledge and a limited number of service providers meant it was still not popular in the local sector.
“In Hong Kong, people are more familiar with audio description in films and entertainment arts as well as dramas,” said Jackie Kwan Cheuk-yin, executive director of the union.
Kwan said audio descriptions have helped blind people enjoy football matches in places like Britain. The union hoped to bring the service to Hong Kong to benefit locals.
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10. Business Insider - My company partnered with a football club to install the first permanent 5G-powered headset system for visually impaired fans1 Nov 2024
This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Sam Jackman, the chief development officer of Shared Access, a European company that develops mobile-connectivity solutions. The following has been edited for length and clarity.
My company, Shared Access, has been working with the Crystal Palace Football Club in London for years to improve connectivity at its stadium, Selhurst Park.
It started when Vodafone approached Shared Access to help build a system for the stadium that ensures great service even when all 30,000 fans are trying to use their phones at once.
Last year, the Crystal Palace team came to us for help supporting a specific cohort of fans: those with visual impairments. In partnership with GiveVision, they were working on deploying headsets that stream live match footage directly to fans with partial sight, allowing them to sit anywhere in the stadium but see every moment in sync with the pitch action — and they needed faster connectivity to make it happen.
The existing networks weren't cutting it
Before coming to us, the team working on the project tried running the headsets over WiFi, but there was too much latency. People using the headsets experienced everything on a slight delay, with the fans around them reacting to something on the field before they could see the action.
The 4G network that we'd previously deployed with Vodafone, and even public 5G networks, weren't going to do the job. Public networks have a lot of firewalls and protocols that create additional delays, such as the need for data to travel from the stadium to the core network of a mobile operator outside the stadium and then back to the user. It's also difficult because the number of other users using the network inside the venue slows things down.
We decided to install a private 5G network with an on-site core in the stadium. This allows for fully enclosed connectivity within the venue, avoiding external data transfer and eliminating the security-protocol challenges of major mobile-network operators. It provides nearly instantaneous performance, with faster speeds than 4G and even purer 5G speeds than most public users experience. Additionally, because the club has total control over who can use the network, it can ensure all the bandwidth goes to these headsets only.
On September 21, we officially launched the program, making Crystal Palace FC the first football club in the world to offer a permanent vision-enhancement system at its stadium for fans with sight impairments. Since we've launched, we've seen more fans with visual impairments who previously didn't think coming to a game was worth it show up and have a great experience.
Future applications for private 5G networks
While helping these fans see is more than enough justification for implementing this private network, there are also so many opportunities for how the tech could be used.
For instance, food and beverage vendors could use the private network to power their tills, allowing the stadium to expand its food offerings to areas that previously didn't have strong enough connectivity. Security cameras could be installed in places where it's physically too difficult to get power and fiber wiring. Broadcasters may be able to use private 5G to get footage out more quickly, and without having to deploy as much equipment to the stadium, which would reduce the carbon footprint of their work.
It doesn't have to be just sports, either. I'd suggest any kind of venue to consider: What are your problems? What are the things you'd love to do but think you can't because of connectivity?
Ultimately, having the foundation of this private network allows so much room for creativity in terms of what you can layer on top of it. Twelve months ago, I'd never heard of GiveVision's headsets, and it had never thought about using a private 5G network, so this collaboration ended up being perfect. Who knows what other applications are out there? I hope other partners and vendors collaborate just as imaginatively to come up with possibilities.
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