Accessibility in the News- May 24, 2024

[Jack McElaney]

Hello Everyone: Americans will be venturing out this weekend to honor the fallen heroes from the many wars fought during our country’s history. The collective sacrifices of our deceased Soldiers, Marines, Airmen, Sailors, and Coast Guard for centuries have afforded us innumerable freedoms and opportunities. We are forever indebted to each of them for their selflessness, bravery, and dedication to our country and its citizens throughout the ages.

 

I hope everyone has an enjoyable, safe and healthy Memorial Day weekend with your families and friends, and you are able to take the time to reflect, remember, and honor all of the living and deceased military heroes from our long and storied history.

 

Sincerely,

Jack

 

Accessibility in the News- Knowledge is Power

Crafted while listening to: Taking Chance- A Memorial Day Tribute & Hymn to the Fallen - Musikkapelle Toblach & "Mansions of the Lord" from We Were Soldiers- West Point Band and West Point Glee Club

 

 

"Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it."  ―  Unknown

 

 

Memorial Day- May 27, 2024

 

 

 

National News (U.S.)

 

1.    Law focuses on accessibility issues at Iowa's state parks- May 16, 2024 Source: Radio Iowa & SiouxlandProud

 

Lawmakers have directed the Iowa Natural Resources Commission to review how accessible state parks are to people with disabilities and recommend improvements. Governor Kim Reynolds signed the bill into law late this afternoon at Big Creek State Park. “It’s hard to imagine a better way to experience the natural beauty Iowa has to offer than by making a trip to one of our many outstanding state parks,” Reynolds said. “Every Iowan, regardless of physical ability, should have the opportunity to experience them first hand.”…

 

2.    Disability rights advocate says state senator with violent history shoved him at New York Capitol- May 16, 2024 Source: NBC News

 

A disability rights advocate made a complaint to New York State Police saying he was shoved twice in the state capitol building by state Sen. Kevin Parker, a Brooklyn Democrat with a history of violent behavior. Michael Carey said his confrontation with Parker took place Wednesday after he approached the senator before a committee meeting and asked him to co-sponsor a piece of legislation. Parker lost his temper, Carey said, after the advocate described the legislation as tackling a “Dr. Martin Luther King type of situation” regarding discrimination against people with disabilities…

 

3.    Portland businesses hit with ADA complaints, demands for thousands in attorney’s fees- May 16, 2024 Source: KGW

 

With a ramp to the front entrance and well-marked parking spaces, the small commercial building Mike Davis owns in Southwest Portland looked like it was compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. It wasn’t. The property was in violation, Davis explained. The ramp was too steep and there was no van-accessible parking. Davis, who has owned the building for years, just learned about the ADA issues in January. He didn't learn it from a customer visiting the hair salon housed in the building — instead, he was served a demand letter from a Portland attorney who proposed a settlement agreement…

 

4.    Celebrating Deaf Culture: How 5 Leading Museums Approach Accessibility and ASL Year-Round- May 17, 2024 Source: American Alliance of Museums

 

After I asked my husband to repeat himself multiple times in one conversation, he eventually turned to me and said, “You don’t hear anything I say. Please get your hearing checked.” I balked at his request and suggested that he speak “louder” and “clearer.” Hearing loss is not something one would experience in their thirties, right? Fast forward some months, an otolaryngologist, and two audiologists later, and I found out that hearing loss can be experienced at any age…

 

5.    Man sues Land of A Thousand Hills Coffee Shop, LLC for ADA Violation over Digital Accessibility- May 17, 2024 Source: Cook County Record

 

Holger Fiallo has filed a lawsuit against Land of A Thousand Hills Coffee Shop, LLC in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. The case, identified as 1:24-cv-03688, was lodged on May 6, 2024. The plaintiff alleges that the defendant's digital properties are not accessible to visually impaired individuals, violating Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Fiallo, represented by his counsel, asserts that approximately 2.3% of the American population lives with some visual disability…

 

6.    Gabby Kozinski addresses wheelchair accessibility in and around Bucyrus- May 18, 2024 Source: Bucyrus Telegraph-Forum

 

Miss Wheelchair Ohio, who just happens to be a Bucyrus native, brought her message home when she presented a program at Thursday's Kiwanis Club meeting. The competition for the crown is focused on ideas presented through essays and speeches, and Gabby Kozinski claimed her title in March through a presentation titled "Knowledge is Power." In the competition, the 2020 Bucyrus High School graduate emphasized educating children about disability etiquette to promote awareness, empathy and inclusivity…

 

7.    How Hoteliers Can Adapt to the Evolving Needs of Website Accessibility- May 20, 2024 Source: CoStar

 

As places of public accommodation, hotels in the U.S. and their websites need to meet certain accessibility requirements. Speaking during the Hospitality Law Conference, attorney Jordan Schwartz explained those accommodations could be physical, such as adding a ramp or installing grab bars, or digital, such as written descriptions of pictures or captioning for videos. Accessibility also includes having online descriptions of the accessibility features at hotels…

 

8.    How accessible is Northern Kentucky?- May 20, 2024 Source: LINK nky

 

Laurie Hamilton’s 12-year-old daughter, Kirin, primarily uses a wheelchair to get around. Hamilton, a Covington resident, told LINK nky she is grateful for resources to which she has access to help Kirin, who attends Holmes Middle School. The Center for Independent Living Options helped her family find stable housing, and the teachers and aides at her school have been phenomenal, she said. The sidewalks can make it difficult for Kirin to move through her community, though…

 

9.    Transit, housing initiatives highlight accessibility concerns for disabled community- May 22, 2024 Source: Austin Monitor

 

Advocates for disabled people in Austin want to ensure upcoming major changes to the local transportation network and housing market don’t exclude those with physical, visual or hearing impairments. A discussion on Tuesday at the Austin office of the advocacy group ADAPT of Texas brought together leaders attached to the Project Connect mass transit plan and efforts to increase housing density near transit corridors, with a special eye on creating homes that are easily accessible and affordable for people with disabilities…

 

10. Adel man continues mission to improve accessibility around Iowa- May 22, 2024 Source: KCCI

 

For almost a decade Robert Fisher has had no issues navigating the Hy-Vee store he works at in Waukee. He weaves his way in his motorized wheelchair to put items customers decide they don't want back on the shelves. Store Manager Tonia Pettersen says Fisher never stops working or advocating. "Having Robert work here is a huge benefit to our store and our company because he can see things we cannot see," Pettersen said. Making sure the store is accessible for everyone…

 

11. ADHD diagnoses are rising. 1 in 9 U.S. kids have gotten one, new study finds- May 23, 2024 Source: NPR

 

About 1 in 9 children in the U.S., between the ages of 3 and 17, have been diagnosed with ADHD. That's according to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that calls attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder an "expanding public health concern." Researchers found that in 2022, 7.1 million kids and adolescents in the U.S. had received an ADHD diagnosis – a million more children than in 2016. That jump in diagnoses was not surprising, given that the data was collected during the pandemic, says Melissa Danielson, a statistician with the CDC's National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities and the study's lead author…

 

12. Jen Roth serving Entrepreneurs’ Organization-Minnesota while building travel accessibility website, Wise Blue Yonder- May 23, 2024 Source: MinnPost

 

When Jen Roth was in her junior year at the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph, she packed up her luggage for a study abroad stint in London. That might seem like a normal rite of passage for a college student, but Roth, at the age of 9, was diagnosed with systemic Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, an affliction that causes joint inflammation and stiffness. In the years since, she’s had 14 surgeries and eight joint replacements. “I cannot believe my parents let me go to London,” she said…

 

13. New business giving free beach accessibility rentals to veterans this Memorial Day- May 23, 2024 Source: Curry Pilot

 

A new business is opening in the Brookings on Memorial Day Weekend that aims to provide accessibility options for those with mobility issues, so they can enjoy Brookings’ lovely beaches. AccessAble Adventures rents beach ready walkers and wheelchairs to anyone who may have trouble on the sand. To celebrate the business’ opening, and commemorate the Memorial Day holiday, AccessAble Adventures will be providing beach walkers and wheelchairs to Gold Star families, free of charge…

 

14. Forced sterilizations for people with disabilities decried by members of Congress- May 23, 2024 Source: South Dakota Searchlight & Rep. Pressley

a.    Today, ‘disability justice is reproductive justice’ — but that hasn’t always been the case- May 23, 2024 Source: The 19th

b.    It’s Past Time To Address Reproductive Equity for Disabled People- May 23, 2024 Source: CAP 20

 

Three members of Congress introduced a resolution Thursday that’s intended to bring attention to the experiences and challenges people with disabilities face when it comes to reproductive rights. Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley announced the resolution during a press conference with advocates just steps from the U.S. Capitol, saying that under a Supreme Court ruling still in effect, people with disabilities can be sterilized without their consent…

 

15. New Law Requires Airlines To Better Assist Travelers With Disabilities- May 24, 2024 Source: Disability Scoop

 

People with disabilities are poised to see big improvements when traveling by air thanks to a host of changes tucked inside a massive reauthorization of federal aviation programs. The measure signed by President Joe Biden this month includes new requirements for airline workers assisting wheelchair users, accessibility upgrades at airports and enforcement of rules protecting the rights of flyers with disabilities. The law mandates that airline workers be trained before assisting passengers boarding with an aisle chair or before storing wheelchairs and other mobility devices…

 

 

Jack Fact — According to the National Institute of Deafness and Hearing Disorders, 1 in 8 people in the United States over the age of 12 have hearing loss in both ears, and about 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from hearing aids.

 

 

Hit The Road Jack — Accessible tourism in Wales: Are we there yet? & Outdoor accessibility at Cheyenne Mountain State Park & Spain´s most accessible city

 

 

International News

 

1.    Paralympic uniform featuring accessibility modifications launched at Australian Fashion Week- May 16, 2024 Source: ABC- Australia

 

The official uniform for the Australian Paralympic team has been unveiled at Australian Fashion Week, featuring accessibility modifications created in collaboration with the team. With Paris 2024 just over 100 days away, the formal uniforms and competition kits were revealed. Accessibility features include magnetic fasteners instead of buttons on jackets, elasticised waistbands for both chinos and shorts, as well as zippers in place of shoelaces on some sneakers…

 

2.    Accessibility Standards Canada and Nova Scotia's Department of Justice connect to pave way toward a barrier-free Canada- May 17, 2024 Source: Government of Canada

a.    From floor tiles to urinals, making spaces more accessible in N.S. will cost millions- May 23, 2024 Source: CBC- Canada

 

Accessibility Standards Canada and the Nova Scotia Department of Justice have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate in their work to develop accessibility standards. The agreement will improve efforts, coordination, and the sharing of resources dedicated to creating a Canada without barriers. This MOU encourages both parties to consider each other’s respective accessibility priorities. This may include aligning or harmonizing work on the development, review, and implementation of accessibility standards, where possible. It may also include the promotion, support, and conduct of research…

 

3.    Progress Over Perfection: How Singapore Pursues Inclusivity- May 17, 2024 Source: Government Technology Agency- Singapore

 

In a world that is increasingly digital, leaving anyone behind is not an option. This is particularly true in Singapore, where we have a rapidly ageing population. In 2023, nearly one-fifth of Singapore’s population was elderly. But it’s not just about age — vulnerable communities of all kinds need to be considered as technology becomes more deeply ingrained in daily life. That’s why at GovTech, we believe that digital services are for everyone. This is why by 2030, we’re aiming to ensure that all high-traffic government websites are accessible to persons with disabilities…

 

4.    Unacceptable accessibility. UNB Law grad recounts inability to cross stage at own graduation- May 17, 2024 Source: CBC- Canada

 

Crossing the stage at graduation for many is the official symbol of being done with your degree and moving onto the next chapter of your life — a moment of pride and joy. Blair Curtis didn't get that moment. Curtis was graduating from the University of New Brunswick with a law degree, but at the ceremony on Thursday at the Richard J. Currie Center, he was unable to get onto the stage to accept his diploma. "It was a hard day," he said through tears. "It should have been a day of celebration and happiness and feeling proud to get my degree," he said…

 

5.    N.B. introduces first accessibility legislation- May 17, 2024 Source: 91.9 The Bend- Canada & Government of New Brunswick & CTV

a.    Proposed accessibility laws will help those 'being left behind,' says advocate- May 19, 2024 Source: CBC- Canada

b.    Disability advocates welcome accessibility legislation- May 21, 2024 Source: 91.9 The Bend- Canada

 

It is being described by some disability advocates as a historic day for New Brunswick. On Friday, the province unveiled the Accessibility Act, its first piece of accessibility legislation. Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Greg Turner unveiled the details during a news conference. Turner said the bill affirms New Brunswick’s commitment to implementing the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities…

 

6.    Reading accessibility opens world to people with visual impairments in Yunnan- May 17, 2024 Source: Xinhua- China

 

A group of 10 students from the Kunming school for visually impaired and nonspeaking people in southwest China's Yunnan Province walked onto the stage of a national reading event to perform for their audience late last month. And they received warm applause from the audience. Their show, titled "There is Light in Reading," opened as they guided one another onto the stage by each resting their arms on the shoulders of the performer in front. They then helped one another into their chairs and took the time to find the raised dots on their braille scripts to ensure they were holding them the right way up…

 

7.    White Rock council delays accessibility mat for pier, opts to wait for grants- May 17, 2024 Source: Global News- Canada

 

Increased accessibility for the White Rock Pier will have to wait. White Rock city council voted on Monday not to fund an accessibility mat for the city’s well-known pier. In a majority vote, councillors decided to have city staff look into possible grants to fund the mat, rather than approve a one-time $100,000 investment of city funds. The argument was made that it would be better for White Rock taxpayers if grants could be used to create the accessibility mat (walkway) for the pier…

 

8.    Accessibility issues facing Laois residents heard at local election husting event in Portlaoise- May 17, 2024 Source: Leinster Express- Ireland

 

The severe lack of accessible taxis, the inaccessible lift in Laois' brand new €7.6 million library in Portlaoise, the new high kerbs on the Dublin Road, Portlaoise which people in wheelchairs can't access, were among the topics covered during a lively discussion at Irish Wheelchair Association's Local Election Hustings in Portlaoise on Tuesday. Hosted in partnership with Portlaoise DAGs (Disability Action Group), its Chairperson Pat Whelan and Secretary Tommy White both spoke about the issues affecting people with disabilities in the county, and IWA members around the room also had their say…

 

9.    PWDs want inclusion in transport, mobility discussions by govt, innovators- May 18, 2024 Source: KBC- Africa

 

Nominated Senator Crystal Asige has called on government and innovators to include people living with disabilities in policy formulation as well as discussions on new inventions on transport. Speaking during the Inclusive Africa Conference 2024, Asige said there is a huge gap to fill in terms of transport and mobility in the country as well as most countries globally urging the government and innovators to borrow from best practices globally to make it easier for persons with disabilities to move from one place to another with ease…

 

10. Sidewalks, buses, and taxis still present obstacles to accessibility for disabled individuals- May 18, 2024 Source: Macau Business- China

 

Several association leaders recognise that accessibility in Macau has improved significantly, but there are still numerous obstacles on sidewalks and public transport for people with disabilities. Regarding Global Accessibility Awareness Day, which is celebrated on May 16, Fernando Carvalho said that he only entered primary school at the age of nine. At the age of one and a half, he was diagnosed with polio and ended up being “rejected from a public school because he was disabled,” he recalled…

 

11. Nagaland: 'Church must do more to promote disability inclusion'- May 18, 2024 Source: Morung Express- India

 

State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), Diethono Nakhro stated that the Church can do better to promote disability inclusion, given its influence on the masses. Speaking at the Global Accessibility Awareness Day held at Hotel Japfü, Kohima under the theme ‘Accessibility in the church,’ Nakhro said, “With the authority and influence it has, the church has the potential to change attitudes and perceptions about disability, educate the masses on inclusion and acceptance and encourage people with disabilities.”…

 

12. Only 3 Toronto beaches are accessible. Advocates want better- May 19, 2023 Source: CBC- Canada

 

When she isn't swimming, East York resident Kim Lumsdon uses a cane to help her get around. That's especially the case at Cherry Beach. With sticks and stones jutting from the steep, uneven ground, Lumsdon wishes there was a better way to navigate the sand beneath her. "I have to watch that I don't fall," she said. "It's honestly very dangerous." Devices such as Mobi-mats allow people to move across the sand to the water on a sturdy platform, which would make it easier for people like Lumsdon to cross the beach…

 

13. An architect's 'vision' for inclusivity- May 19, 2024 Source: The New Indian Express- India

 

In an earnest effort to address the often overlooked challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in the built environment, architect Kavya Poornima Balajepalli has emerged as a beacon of change. Apart from confronting personal adversity, Kavya’s commitment to foster inclusivity has propelled her to spearhead the initiative ‘Poornamidam,’ which delves into the intersectionality of architecture, environment, and disability. In simple words, she is working to make public spaces more accessible to everyone, including persons with disabilities…

 

14. Meet the paralysed man circumnavigating the UK who wants more disabled people to access the sea- May 19, 2024 Source: ITVX- UK

 

A quadriplegic man who is circumnavigating the UK in a specially adapted boat says it's his dream to make the sea more accessible to other people who are disabled. Geoff Holt MBE has already travelled more than 600 miles around the coastline of the UK. He set off in his modified boat from London and on Saturday 18 May arrived in Milford Haven. His epic challenge is all in aid of his charity, WaterWheels, which has already provided thousands of disabled people with the opportunity to access the water…

 

15. Lawmaker wants tourist sites made accessible to PWDs, seniors- May 19, 2024 Source: The Philippine Star- Philippines

 

To boost the country’s tourism, House Deputy Speaker and Las Piñas Rep. Camille Villar wants tourist destinations to be accessible to senior citizens and people with disabilities (PWDs). In House Bill 10349 or the proposed PWD and Senior Citizen-Friendly Tourism Sites Act, Villar urged the government to engage in accessible tourism practices to encourage more individuals to travel and explore the country’s tourist sites. The measure stated that this will “promote sustainable tourism, increase livelihood opportunities and contribute to economic growth.”…

 

16. Paris 2024: Paralympics 'shame' in lack of Metro disabled access- May 19, 2024 Source: BBC- UK

 

It is "absolutely scandalous" that more has not been done to improve accessibility on Paris's underground trains network ahead of the Paralympics, a leading French disability charity has said. APF France Handicap said the Metro was a "big black spot" on the city's Paralympic legacy. The president of the International Paralympic Committee said he understood the "frustration", but pointed to "massive investment" in the city's buses. French wheelchair users told the BBC the lack of accessibility on the Metro was a source of "shame"…

 

17. ‘Help people feel empowered’: Oshawa students dream of new, accessible solutions- May 21, 2024 Source: Durham Region- Canada

 

Students at Kedron Public School brought their accessibility ideas to life with a new 3D printer program. Students at the school were tasked with finding solutions to some practical accessibility solutions as part of a new Durham District Schools Board (DDSB) project — 3D Printing Project: Dream, Design, Deliver — which is aimed at teaching students to use 3D printing technology to address common accessibility issues. Beth Birney, teacher-librarian at Kedron, and Grade 6 and 7 teacher Rob Hercia were the first to run the project with their students…

 

18. 'A huge learning curve' - Survey over night life accessibility for wheelchair users- May 21, 2024 Source: RTE- Ireland & gov.ie

 

A new survey aims to hear about the challenges facing wheelchair users and people with disabilities in their social lives across towns and cities, so that practical solutions can be put in place to make night life accessible for all. The purpose of the 'Night-Time Economy Accessibility Survey' is to examine the challenges for patrons and artists with disabilities accessing the night time economy. Louise Bruton is a DJ, journalist, playwright and disability rights activist who writes a weekly newsletter called 'Legless in Dublin' where she explores issues around access…

 

19. Accessibility Equals Inclusion- May 23, 2024 Source: The Meaford Independent- Canada

 

Next week is National AccessAbility Week, an initiative that shines a bright light on the importance of accessibility for all, identifying areas for improvement, and celebrating the progress that has been made in recent years. According to Statistics Canada, 27 percent of Canadians have a disability of some description, meaning that roughly eight million of us have one or more disabilities to deal with in daily life. While historically those with disabilities could be overlooked, or treated differently than the rest, in modern times our society has worked to be more inclusive, to be more accommodating…

 

Accessibility Blogs, Information, & Videos

• Colorblind Accessibility Manifesto
• Tech comes to the accessibility table- Gadget
• A Taste of ReelAbilities New York 2024- Equal Entry
• State of Colorado Accessibility Newsletter - May 2024
• Behind the scenes: Planning an accessible event- Anthology
• Real People, Real Stories Episode 2, 2024: Pat Pound- TPGi
• Disability Debrief- A duty to shed light- Peter Torres Fremlin
• An Inside Look at Salesforce Product Accessibility- Salesforce (YouTube)
• Accessible Hospitality: Unlocking the Untapped Goldmine- CoStar
• The lesson when designing for accessibility: Keep learning!- AdNews
• Tietoevry survey reveals Nordic seniors’ struggle with digital services
• The Future Of AI In Hiring & The Disability Community- Donna Bungard
• People with disabilities should also access quality education- The Chronicle
• Avoid Common Accessibility Mistakes- HSBC Accessibility Hub - HSBC Group
• Low Traffic Neighbourhoods and accessibility – House of Commons Committees
• Apple's new accessibility features: a game changer in health care - KevinMD.com
• Why making your business accessible is great for growth - London Business News
• Digital Inclusion: Inside Tips from ADA-Compliant Companies - InformationWeek
• The WCAG 3 Working Draft update is ready for your review- Shawn Lawton Henry
• RNIB launches checklist for improving accessibility of social posts - UK Fundraising
• Mumbai's Inclusivity and Accessibility for the Disabled- Saving Mumbai- IndiaSpend (YouTube)
• iOS 18 accessibility features hailed as life-changing by disability campaigner - 9to5Mac
• How Designing for Users With Disabilities Enhances UX for Everyone- Andrew Gosine
• Restoring Vision: Making Whole Eye Transplantation a Reality- The Glaucoma Foundation (YouTube)
• Digital accessibility: Employees matter too- Jared Clayton, Digital Accessibility Manager, HSBC
• New homes must not only be available and affordable, they must be accessible, too - Toronto Star
• The Accessible Link- Mystery Shopping: Why Genuine Experiences Matter in Accessibility- Christiane Link
• Why Accessibility MUST Be A Priority For Industries To Unlock An Underserved Market In 2024- HR News
• Making streets and sidewalks more ADA accessible starts with a plan- The Rundown: Chicago News Podcast-WBEZ Chicago
• Waterfront Park: A place for everyone. Accessible features and connections that support visitors of all abilities- Seattle Department of Transportation

 

Federally Speaking

• The FAA Reauthorization Act is good news for accessible air travel- Aircraft Interiors International
• Medicare’s In-Person Visit Requirement Limits Mental Health Care Accessibility- Psychiatry Advisor
• Music Service and Materials - National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS) | Library of Congress
• The ALS Association Applauds President Signing FAA Reauthorization Bill, Delivering Improved Air Travel for People with ALS
• Federal Workforce: Leading Practices Related to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility- Government Accountability Office
• Justice Department Releases Webinar with Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights to Improve Accessibility of School Buildings & YouTube

 

Higher Education Blogs & Information

• Student Accessibility and Support Services - Allegheny College
• Santa Fe College's DRC Drives Inclusivity and Accessibility- Santa Fe College
• Grad profile: Where space and accessibility meet - Dal News - Dalhousie University
• N.B. law grad frustrated after being unable to cross stage at his own graduation- Global News
• Student airplane accessibility project named finalist for international award- Virginia Tech News
• Malhotra and Folkes: Universities must stop treating accessibility as an afterthought - Ottawa Citizen
• Higher Ed Institutions Are Enhancing Accessibility with a Variety of Tech Tools- EdTech Magazine
• Faculty and staff honored with Accessibility Advocate Award- WVU ENews - West Virginia University
• Access For All: Navigating Reunions with a Disability- Princeton Alumni Weekly- Princeton University
• Accessibility difference in education-related websites from developing and developed countries- ITU & PDF

 

Legal Blogs & Information

• Streetcar accessibility - Courthouse News Service & Ruling (PDF)
• Prioritization key to prep for website accessibility rule - Route Fifty
• DOJ publishes final website accessibility rules- The Akron Legal News
• Beginning your organisation’s digital accessibility journey- The Law Society
• A Small Entity Compliance Guide for Title II Web and Mobile App Rule- Department of Justice
• Law Society publishes guidance to support disabled people in the workplace- Today's Wills and Probate
• DOJ Issues “Small Entity Compliance Guide” for State and Local Government Web Content and Mobile App Accessibility- Seyfarth Shaw
• Justice Department Secures Landmark Agreement with City of Anoka, Minnesota, to End Disability Discrimination in “Crime-Free” Housing Program & Complaint (PDF) & Consent Decree (PDF)

 

Accessibility Announcements

• Delta to debut cabin accessibility designs at AIX
• Neuralink approved to put a brain chip in another person
• Waterloo Road gets all accessibility options on BBC iPlayer
• Amtrak completes accessibility upgrades at Tennessee station
• Adaptive Surf Project brings out dozens for disability surf clinic
• Merlin enhancing accessibility for deaf visitors at UK attractions
• Call for Lived Experiences: WHO Commission on Social Connection
• SMA Community Advocacy Results in Key Accessible Air Travel Win
• TD and March of Dimes Canada partner to improve online accessibility
• Dementia specialist contributes to accessibility drive in Scottish tourism
• Here is the sensory-friendly calendar for Hersheypark and Sesame Place
• Governor Hochul Announces LIRR Copiague Station Now Fully Accessible
• GBTA Launches Accessibility Toolkit For Seamless Business Travel For All
• “Sensory backpacks” at local theatre chain improve movie accessibility for all
• Department drive to make Ireland's nightlife inclusive for people with disabilities
• Columbus Zoo to host accessibility event for those who are blind, deaf and deafblind
• May Mobility Awareness Month: On the path to making Atlanta’s parks accessible to all
• GitHub offers details on internal accessibility programs; amplifies voices of disabled devs
• Milwaukee's Cactus Club books ESG, Bully for fundraising concerts for accessibility effort
• Transforming Accessible Travel in Aviation: Transreport Partners with East Midlands Airport
• New updates to Disney’s Disability Accessibility Services now in effect. Here’s what has changed
• Verizon’s Freehold office hosts Accessibility Technology and Innovation Lab ribbon-cutting event
• Call for Art by Artists with Disabilities for the 2024 Disability Employment Awareness Month Poster
• The Washington Post expands accessibility to AI-read newsletters, enhancing user experience through audio
• Texas Workforce Commission Kicks Off Annual Program for Connecting Students with Disabilities to Meaningful Employment
• Zoovu Addresses Massive Gap in Ecommerce Accessibility by Enabling Brands to Easily Create Accessible Shopping Experiences at Scale

 

Accessibility Products & Services

• Paschall Access Solutions
• GBTA launches accessibility toolkit
• 6 Microsoft classroom accessibility tools
• Sea World Cruises Ensures Smooth Sailing For All Guests
• EC FFA Members Build Handicap Accessible Garden Beds
• Google Puts on its Gameface with Biometric Accessibility Tech
• Relumino Mode Enhances Accessibility on Galaxy Smartphones
• Vision Australia Debuts On-Demand Digital Accessibility Training
• Accesstech Innovation Empowers Journalists On Digital Content Access
• Zoovu unveils platform tools to enhance compliance with new accessibility guidelines
• Google Announces A Slew Of Accessibility Updates At I/O Conference, More This Week
• Apple announces raft of accessibility updates to enhance independence for disabled people
• A New Beginning Refinishing Introduces TubcuT® Service to Enhance Bathroom Accessibility
• Understanding the Galaxy features that bridge accessibility gaps: Relumino, TalkBack, Live Captions

 

Accessibility Forums, Tips, & Gaming

• Accessibility in Gaming
• Hellblade 2: All Accessibility Options
• Do you have accessibility expectations?
• Four New Patents Join EA's Accessibility Pledge
• AI Unlocks New Era of Video Gaming Accessibility
• XDefiant Accessibility Additions: All You Need To Know
• New Hellblade 2 post lays out full range of accessibility settings
• Benefits of role-playing games include accessibility, community
• How Airbnb Caters to Users with Low Vision with Accessible Text Resizing
• Google I/O 2024: Google collaborates with Supergaming to bring AI-enabled gaming accessibility
• Modular ‘Proteus Controller’ Xbox/PC Accessibility Controller Announced, Available for Pre-order
• Wellness Games for Everyone The Sony Group hosted ”Idea2Hack” ideathon/hackathon, to create new games
• Updates to Adaptive Controller Coming Soon, Xbox Games and Development for Accessibility, Free Profile Badge

 

Accessibility Employment Opportunities

• Accessibility Expert - Wix
• Sr Accessibility Specialist I - Elsevier
• Product Owner, Accessibility - Alight
• Web Accessibility Specialist - Insight Global
• Product Accessibility Customer Manager - Workday
• Accessibility Advisor - University of British Columbia
• Website and Digital Accessibility Specialist - State of Colorado
• Capital Development and Accessibility Supervisor - Wisconsin DNR
• Group Product Manager, gBoard and Android Accessibility - Google
• Accessibility & Language Access Systems Analyst - State of Washington

 

Accessibility Training & Meetings

• Learn Accessibility
• Video Accessibility 101
• Accessibility fundamentals
• AccessiblePass.net Academy
• The A11Y Collective Courses (NEW)
• Accessibility in Digital Society
• Accessible PowerPoint Training
• Introduction to Web Accessibility
• Fun4theDisabled- Events Calendar
• Get Started with Web Accessibility
• Accessibility training- Access for all
• JAN 2024 Webcast Series Registration
• Archived JAN Webinars and Webcasts
• NEAT's Spring 2024 Webinar Schedule
• GSA Section 508 Accessibility Training
• Accessibility Training Resources- HHS.gov
• New Accessibility Fundamentals- Microsoft (NEW)
• Introduction to Accessible Web Development
• Upcoming IAAP Webinars - Digital Accessibility
• CAST: The Accessible Learning Experience Podcast
• Legal Frameworks and Responsibilities for Accessibility
• Archived Sessions Section 508 Best Practices Webinar Series
• Inclusive by design: an 8-week journey to digital accessibility
• Accessibility Training for Developers, Testers, and Content Creators
• ITU Academy Web Accessibility - The cornerstone of digital society
• Great Lakes ADA Center - Section 508 Best Practices Webinar Series
• IAAP 2024 Professional Education Webinar Series: Digital Accessibility
• The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C): Introduction to Web Accessibility
• W3C Course List - Digital Accessibility Education, Training, and Certification
• Web App Accessibility (feat. React) with Marcy Sutton Todd- Frontend Masters
• State of Minnesota’s free e-Learning program on how to create accessible PDF document
• Texas Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities Accessibility and Disability Policy Webinars
• Get informed about the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Integrated Accessibility Standards (IASR) in one course
• Chicago Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities Accessible Events Calendar
• Inclusive Accessibility with Gary Harmon- May 28, 2024 at 7:00 PM ET
• Overview of HHS’ Final Rule Implementing Section 504 of the Rehab Act- May 28, 2024 01:00 PM in CT
• Strengthening Digital Accessibility and the Management of Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act- May 28, 2024 at 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM ET
• Web Accessibility for Developers- May 29^th at 10:00 AM in CT
• You're Getting Sued: What Happens Now?- May 29^th at 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM EST
• Celebrate the City of Ottawa’s 21st annual AccessAbility Day event- May 30, 2024 Source: 10:00 am to 2:30 pm ET
• Digital Accessibility as Strategy: A Practical Guide to Building Inclusive Brands- May 30, 2024 · 12:00 |  CDT (GMT -5:00)
• Accessibility for Designers- Workshop, 4×2h + Q&A • Mon & Wed, June 3–12 2024- 9:30 am – 12:00 pm pt • 18:30 – 21:00 cet
• Texas HHSC to Host 2024 Promoting Independence Plan Stakeholder Summit- June 3, 2024 (in-person) or June 5, 2024 (virtual)
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD): EXPLORE!- June 4, 2024 1:00 PM CT
• OZeWAI online event - Ask the Professionals - June 4, 2024 at 3:00 am - 4:30 am CDT
• Leveling the Playing Field: Toward Equivalently Accessible Video Game Worlds- June 4^th at 6:30 PM CDT
• Core Webinar: Accessible and Inclusive Library Design- June 11, 2024, 1 - 2 p.m. CT
• Author-friendly Content Quality Assurance with Editoria11y- June 12, 2024 at 12:00 pm (EDT)
• INSTO Insights Webinar on Measuring Accessibility at the Destination Level- June 13^th at 12:00 – 13:00 pm CEST
• Accessibility Summer Camp- June 14, 2024 at 8:00 am - 4:00 pm CDT
• Blindness And Mental Health Summit 2024- June 14, 2024
• Accessibility Summer Camp 2024- June 14 · 8am - 4pm CDT
• UX Virtual Training- June 15-21, 2024- Online
• Pacific ADA Center Lunch and Learn Webinar: Private Business Open to the Public- June 18, 2024 2:00PM CDT
• UX Virtual Training- June 24-27, 2024
• Highlighting Student-Led Community Engagement Projects- June 26, 2024 at 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (EDT)
• MBTA’s Semi-Annual Settlement Update Meeting on Accessibility- June 26, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. ET
• Leveling the Playing Field: Toward Equivalently Accessible Video Game Worlds- June 27, 2024, at 9.30am – 4.30 pm. BST
• RespectAbility's Third Annual Disability Impact Awards/New Brand Launch Celebration: July 11, 2024, at 5:30 pm ET, K&L Gates in Washington, DC
• Accessibility - Ready, Set, Go!- EIR Accessibility Workshop- July 22 - 24, 2024
• Accessible Documents Webinar (Presented by WebAIM)- July 23, 2024 at 12:00 PM CT
• HighEdWeb 2024 Accessibility Summit- Online- July 30, 2024
• Batteries included Accessibility: A Pragmatic Guide to get started today- August 7, 2024 at 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM  EDT
• The first annual Adirondack Nature Festival for People with Disabilities- September 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET
• Inclusive Design 24 (#id24)- September 12, 2024
• Pacific ADA Center Lunch and Learn Webinar: Employment Rights- September 24, 2024 2:00PM CDT
• Symposium on Dis/Ability & Debility in Appalachia on September 28th, 2024
• Accessibility testing with NVDA- November 11, 2024, at 5:00 pm – November 25, 2024, at 7:00 pm CST
• Starting your career as Digital Accessibility Professional - November 19, 2024
• Pacific ADA Center Lunch and Learn Webinar: Effective Communication- December 3, 2024 2:00PM CST

 

Accessibility Conferences

• Accessible Canada – Accessible World - Montreal, QC

Date: May 27-28, 2024

• UX Scotland- Edinburgh, Scotland

Date: May 29-31, 2024

• Open Source North- Saint Paul, MN

Date: June 5, 2024

• Accessibility Club Summit 2024- Amsterdam, Netherlands

Date: June 8-9, 2024

• 2024 Worldwide Developer Conference- Online

Date: June 10-14, 2024

• UI/UX Global Summit '24- Online

Date: June 11-12, 2024

• Pixel Pioneers 2024- Bristol, England
  Date: June 14, 2024
• UX London 2024- London, England
  Date: June 18-20, 2024
• Web Directions Code- Melbourne, Australia

Date: June 20-21, 2024

• International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE)- Denver, CO

Date: June 23-26, 2024

• UXPA 2024- Fort Lauderdale, FL

Date: June 24-27 2024

• National Federation of the Blind National Convention- Orlando, FL

Date: July 3-8, 2024

• International Conference on Computers Helping People with Special Needs - ICCHP 24, JKU Linz, Austria

Date: July 8 -12, 2024

• Disability:IN 2024 Annual Conference- Las Vegas, NV

Date: July 15-18, 2024

• THAT Conference- Wisconsin Dells, WI

Date: July 29-August 1, 2024

• HighEdWeb 2024 Accessibility Summit- Online

Date: July 30, 2024

• devopsdays Minneapolis- Minneapolis, MN

Date: August 6-7, 2024

• UX Australia 2024- Melbourne & Online

Date: August 27–30, 2024

• Twin Cities Drupal Camp- Minneapolis, MN

Date: September 12-14, 2024

• The UX Conf- Online and London, England, United Kingdom

Date: September 13, 2024

• HighEdWeb 2024 Annual Conference- Online and Albuquerque, NM

Date: September 22-25, 2024

• W3C Technical Plenary and Advisory Committee (TPAC)- Online and Anaheim, CA

Date: September 23-27, 2024

• Paris Web- Paris, France

Date: September 26-28, 2024

• #a11yTO Conf- Toronto, Canada

Date: October 3-4, 2024

• UI/UX Global Summit '24- Online

Date: October 8-9, 2024

• Design + Accessibility Summit- Online

Date: October 8-11, 2024

• M-Enabling Summit in Washington, DC

Date: October 15 - 17, 2024

• World Usability Conference 2024- Graz, Austria

Date: October 15-17, 2024

• EDUCAUSE Annual Conference- San Antonio, TX

October 21–24, 2024- San Antonio, TX

November 13–14, 2024- Online

• Closing The Gap- Minneapolis, MN

Date: October 21-25, 2024

• Accessing Higher Ground- Accessible Media, Web and Technology Conference- Denver, CO

Date: November 11-15, 2024

• Better by Design- Washington, D.C.

Date: November 18-19, 2024

• CES 2025- Las Vegas, NV

Date: January 7-10, 2025

• 40th Annual CSUN Assistive Technology Conference- Anaheim CA

Date: March 10 -14, 2025

 

Accessibility Employment Resources

• Upwork
• SideHusl
• Inclusively
• A11YJOBS
• Ability Jobs
• WIRED Hired
• Higher Ed Jobs
• WorkforceGPS
• Disabled Person
• Peak Performers
• Digital A11y Jobs
• Texas HireAbility
• Disability Solutions
• SSI Youth Solutions
• U.S. Department Of Labor
• National Industries for the Blind
• PEAT Future of Work Newsletter
• Job Accommodation Network- JAN
• National Industry Liaison Group (NILG)
• Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP)
• National Organization on Disability (NOD)
• Partnership on Inclusive Apprenticeship (PIA)
• 6 Best Job Posting Sites for Employers of 2023
• American Council of the Blind Job Connection
• Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP)
• Mentra is a Neurodiversity Employment Network
• Workplace Resources for Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Disability Employment Resources for Staffing Firms
• American Job Center (disability job-driven resources)
• Federal Exchange on Employment & Disability (FEED)
• The State Exchange on Employment & Disability (SEED)
• National Clearinghouse of Rehabilitation Training Materials
• Partnership on Employment & Accessible Technology (PEAT)
• Employer Assistance and Resource Network on Disability Inclusion (EARN)

 

Accessibility Statements
OMNY
Europass
Worldline
Peak Design
Recycle Now
RRC Polytech
Foreign Policy
Howard University
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
National Construction Code - Australian Building Codes Board

 

If you know of any others that would benefit from my newsletter please forward this email to them or have them subscribe at Accessibility in the News. If you have missed any of my Accessibility Statements or past issues of Accessibility in the News please see all of my archived issues since 2016.

 

Jack McElaney                                                                                                                                          

VP of Sales & Marketing and Accessibility in the News Publisher

P: 512-794-8440

E: jmce...@microassist.com

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