This seems like an appropriate topic of conversation after the recent election in the US. As we reflect on the outcomes and their very real impact, it’s a timely reminder that focusing solely on differences can widen the gaps between…
The ADA focuses on the needs of people with disabilities, not their medical diagnosis
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) embodies the social model of disability by shifting the focus from a person’s medical condition to barriers erected by society that those people experience. The ADA does not list specific disabilities but instead uses…
If you need an accommodation, it means the process or item is not accessible. Getting the accommodation doesn’t fix the inaccessible process or item. It just gives you a temporary solution and doesn’t solve the problem for others
Disability truth time If you need to ask for an accommodation, it means the process or item you are being asked to use BY DEFINITION is inaccessible. Getting the accommodation doesn’t fix the inaccessible process or item. It merely provides…
Success is not always hitting the bullseye. success is hitting what you are aiming for
Ever think business is a lot like sports? Let me tell you a story from my archery coaching days in California that might just hit the mark for you. I was coaching a group of kids aged 8-16. After one…
The Only Person Who Can Legitimately Decide Whether You’re Disabled is You
For far too long, society has imposed definitions and judgments on what it means to be disabled. But here’s the truth: disability is a deeply personal experience, unique to every individual. Our essence of self-determination is diminished when others impose…
Denying Ableism Exists is Another Form of Ableism
One of the most insidious forms of ableism is denying that disability discrimination exists. When people say, “Oh, we treat everyone the same,” they miss the point by a mile. Equal treatment doesn’t mean equitable treatment, and it certainly doesn’t…
Never Say to a Person with a Disability What You Wouldn’t Want Said to Yourself
When interacting with someone with a disability, it’s critical to consider the impact of your words. Often, well-meaning comments like “What happened to you?”, “Good for you!”, or “I can’t believe you’ve accomplished so much” are intended to be supportive.…
Toxic Accessibility Frequently Starts with a Lack of Executive Support
When leaders don’t prioritize accessibility, those inactions speak way louder than any words they might say. People always want to claim that they are doing good, but those words are meaningless without action that matches the words. Without leadership buy-in,…
Accessibility Quote: If you want better accessibility leaders, you need to offer a non-mamager career path
Leadership is not always about people management. Authentic accessibility leadership happens when people are allowed to push boundaries, innovate, and solve complex problems—often without ever having any people management responsibilities. For many in the accessibility field, their expertise, passion, and…
Accessibility that is not Maintained is not Accessible
Accessibility that isn’t maintained is not accessibility at all. Building accessible systems is just the first step. It’s not enough to get something accessible; you have to keep it accessible. If you don’t continue to review your websites, mobile apps,…