Confluence Policy & Strategy Group’s Post

To all of my friends and connections, The State of Colorado requests your input to inform the recommendations of the Task Force Related to the Rights of Coloradans with Disabilities. Through four subcommittees, the Task Force is developing ideas on a broad range of issues from housing and outdoor recreation to government services and the rights detailed in Colorado’s Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA).   Public input is open now through October 21st. Click here to share your opinions or visit https://lnkd.in/eP55j9g5   For the past year, more than 40 Coloradans have been examining the current systems, hearing from those with lived experience and experts from government, non-profit and the private sector and discussing potential solutions to existing barriers or shortfalls in today’s systems. Prior to developing their recommendations, the four subcommittees are sharing initial ideas online for public input.   The following are the Task Force Subcommittees: The Rewrite Subcommittee, which must study and make recommendations concerning the various issues related to the rewrite and modernization of the Colorado Revised Statutes concerning civil rights of persons with disabilities; The Outdoors Subcommittee (in which I have taken part), which must study and make recommendations related to the basic accessibility of outdoor spaces for persons with disabilities; The Housing Subcommittee, which must study and make recommendations related to the affordability, accessibility, and attainability of housing for persons with disabilities; and The Government Subcommittee, which must focus on basic physical and programmatic accessibility within state and local government.   Public input is open now through October 21st. Click here to share your opinions or visit https://lnkd.in/eP55j9g5   If you are interested in joining any of the Task Force or subcommittee meetings to follow the discussions or to provide public comment, meeting details are available on the Task Force website where you will also find links to past meeting materials and videos of each meeting.

Today is the day that the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed, and unintentionally, my day ended up being focused a lot on my capacity as Chair for the Commission on Disabilities. I was a part of a panel today for Zeitgeist Duluth (second year in a row!) with this year, it being on Zoom for added accessibility, so feel free to watch the recording of it when it is available. This year, my friends at Duluth Transit Authority, Arc Northland, the City of Duluth, MN Government Planning Department and Essentia Health talked a little bit new busing plans, utilizing Google Maps for integrating ways to get around, and even accessible ! We talked a bit about what works and what doesn’t, while also contributing some substantial ideas for how to improve. Feedback from the community during the Q and A was fantastic, I really appreciated it. After that, I had a joint meeting with the Human Rights Commission and we discussed in a limited capacity, ways to better communicate, represent, and engage in partnership as governmental entities. We were able to weigh in with how we can enhance what is currently being developed (and achieved) by being able to address potential blind spots or maybe provide feedback with a unique perspective that doesn’t always rise to the top via traditional means. For the Commission on Disabilities, that context is assisting how we approach infrastructure, getting new businesses off the ground, moving around our town, and being connected in community with each other in a way that we are all getting the services we need and being a part of this cities growth. It’s really great to be just one voice that changes the shape of a narrative that we are all capable in our own ways. Thirty four years ago, individuals crawled up the Capitol steps in order to secure transportation rights and it grew to an understanding of full personhood. Today, we have individuals reclaiming the notion that excellence can take a variety of forms, and that they are not exempt from spheres of influence. It’s possible to get to where we need altogether…sometimes it just takes a different map and consistent steps forward.

Today is the 34th anniversary of the Americans with disabilities act. The act has had a lot of big wins over the years, so let’s look at some which have had a big impact on those with dissabilities. 🎯The NFB vs Target case🎯 The national Federation of the Blind sued target corporation back in 2006 because they claimed that target had an inaccessible website. The website couldn’t be used by screen reader users, which caused a number of problems for shoppers with disabilities. Target settled the case in the end paying $6million and agreeing to make their website accessible. Following this Success the NFB took another case in 2014 against a company called Scribd, a case which also had a successful outcome. 📹The NAD vs Netflix case📹 The National association of deaf people or NAD sued Netflix back in 2010. Netflix was still shipping DVD’s around this time, but they were still doing that in 2023 so this is probably no surprise. NAD Sued Netflix for its lack of content with captions. Captions were commonly available on television by this point, so NAD needed to ensure things didn’t start moving backwards. Netflix eventually agreed to provide captions on all of their content, and while they did this they made shows with captions much easier to find on the platform. A number of big streaming services have gone on to make deals with NAD, so this case has had a massive impact on the world of accessible entertainment. To think that captions are now on all content as a result of this case is really fantastic. 🍕The Robles versus Domino’s Pizza Case🍕 It’s a simple case, but a very impactful one. Guillermo Robles sued Domino’s Pizza alleging that there app and website were not accessible for screen reader users. This whole saga had a lot of ups and downs, but Robles eventually won. This is a fascinating case which reminded businesses that public places can exist online and that they need to be accessible. You can read more about this very interesting case on the Vially Blog here: https://lnkd.in/ek2xgWUX These three cases are just some examples of the incredible work that this legislation has done for people with disabilities over the years. With the European accessibility act just around the corner, things are definitely looking bright for people with disabilities. Who knows what the next 34 years will look like.

"If momentum is lost persons with disabilities will fall further behind". This is a must read article by Elizabeth Lockwood on behalf of The Stakeholder Group of Persons with Disabilities for Sustainable Development (SD). Elizabeth argues powerfully that as discussions on the Pact for the Future begin, the inclusion and recognition of persons with disabilities and their representative organizations have dwindled. The zero draft of the Pact of the Future having absolutely no references to persons with disabilities. The article proposes the following recommendations to ensure inclusion of persons with disabilities in the Summit of the Future processes and beyond. ✔ Authentic representation of persons with disabilities and their representative organizations in all Our Common Agenda and post-2030 processes, and, at the same time, ensure more participation in decision-making processes.  ✔ Available, high-quality, timely, and reliable data on marginalized groups, including persons with disabilities. ✔ Pre-conditions systematically in place, such as accessibility for all persons with disabilities and recognition from all partners that organizations of persons with disabilities must be the driving and leading force to make change.  ✔ Address the growing digital divide that disproportionately affects the most marginalized groups, including persons with disabilities. Please share this article, implement and advocate for the change it proposes and help keep momentum going so no one is left behind. #a11y #wearebillionstrong #counteveryonein #inclusion #accessibility #surveys https://lnkd.in/gYNiFfmn

🤍🩵💙Does there have to be a special day to remind us not to discriminate others? Could we not treat the words of „Imagine” by John Lennon as our scope and move on to the execution stage of this project? 💛🧡🩷Today is the European Day against Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities. On 20 October 2020, the European Commission has announced in its 'Commission Work Programme 2021', the publication of a new EU disability strategy. On 3 March 2021, the Commission adopted its 'Strategy for the rights of persons with disabilities 2021-2030'. The objective of this Strategy is to progress towards ensuring that all persons with disabilities in the European Union, regardless of their sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, age or sexual orientation: -enjoy their human rights; -have equal opportunities, equal access to -participate in society and economy; -are able to decide where, how and with whom they live; -move freely in the EU regardless of their support needs; -and no longer experience discrimination This new Strategy takes account of the diversity of disability comprising long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments (in line with Article 1 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities), which are often invisible. To find out more please reach here: https://lnkd.in/dugwanvv 💜💙💚If You work in Kyndryl or any other company please feel free to reach out to me if You feel like doing something to make this world a pleace that John Lennon would not have to dream about but could just enjoy :)

This a milestone victory for the disability rights movement. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland signed a final rule under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) “to ensure the accessibility of web content and mobile applications (apps) for people with disabilities. This final rule clarifies the obligations of state and local governments to make their websites and mobile applications accessible. Every day, people across the country use the web and mobile apps to access public programs and services, including emergency information, courts, healthcare providers, schools, voting information, parking, permit applications, tax payments, and transit updates. If these technologies are not accessible, it can be difficult or impossible for people with disabilities to access critical services. Consequently, individuals with disabilities may be excluded from accessing public services that other people routinely use.” “The rule will provide much-needed standards for addressing a wide variety of barriers … [and] mandates technical standards for state and local governments to help ensure the accessibility of their programs and services provided through the web and mobile apps.”

How do we ensure the inclusion of persons with #disabilities in the Summit of the Future processes and beyond? 1. Ensure authentic representation of persons with disabilities and their representative organisations and ensure more participation in decision-making processes. 2. High-quality, timely, and reliable data on marginalised groups, including persons with disabilities must be available. 3. Pre-conditions must be systematically in place. These include accessibility for all persons with disabilities and recognition from all partners that organisations of persons with disabilities must be the driving and leading force to make change 4. The growing digital divide that disproportionately affects the most marginalized groups, including persons with disabilities, must be addressed. Read Elizabeth Lockwood's blog, on behalf of the Stakeholder Group of Persons with Disabilities for Sustainable Development: https://lnkd.in/gYNiFfmn?

Supreme Court Lauds Achievements of Persons with Disabilities in Recent Judgment In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court of India has recognized and celebrated the remarkable achievements of persons with disabilities (PwDs), highlighting their contributions to society and the importance of inclusivity. This ruling is a pivotal moment in affirming the rights of PwDs, aligning with India’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). The case in question revolved around the rights of individuals with disabilities in accessing opportunities in education and employment. The Supreme Court underscored that society must acknowledge and promote the capabilities of PwDs rather than merely focusing on their limitations. The bench noted that these individuals have excelled in various fields, including sports, academics, and the arts, serving as inspiring role models. Data from the 2011 Census indicates that around 2.68 crore people in India have disabilities, yet many continue to face significant barriers in education and employment. The Supreme Court's judgment seeks to dismantle these barriers by reinforcing the legal framework that supports inclusivity. It emphasizes the need for accessible infrastructure, reasonable accommodations, and affirmative action to create an equitable environment. In its ruling, the Court urged government bodies and private institutions to implement policies that promote inclusivity. It highlighted successful initiatives, such as the increased representation of PwDs in the workforce and educational institutions, as positive examples to emulate. The judgment serves as a reminder that when given the right support and opportunities, individuals with disabilities can thrive and contribute significantly to society. This landmark decision is not just a legal milestone; it is a call to action for society to embrace diversity and foster an inclusive culture. By celebrating the achievements of PwDs, the Supreme Court has taken a significant step toward promoting equality and breaking down the stigmas that often surround disabilities. This judgment paves the way for a more inclusive future, where everyone, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to realize their full potential.

Today marks the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disability Act (ADA)—a historic milestone signed in 1990—which continues to impact lives positively and promote equal opportunities for people with disabilities.                                            On this day, Amnet proudly reaffirms its commitment to delivering actionable insights by enabling digital equality in compliance with global content compliance standards. Together, let’s continue to promote inclusivity and participate in and implement accessibility in all the ways we can so we have a future built without barriers. Visit us: https://bit.ly/4cU6UA0 Transcript Page 1 Are your digital deliverables inclusive? One in six of us live with disabilities. In 2023, an estimated 1.3 billion people, 16 percent of the world’s population, experienced disabilities. An illustration at the bottom of the poster depicts two men guiding two visually impaired women with canes to walk, and a woman assisting a disabled individual sitting in a wheelchair. The logo of Amnet with a tagline, Energizing Relationships, is at the bottom left corner. Page 2 Accessible Publications Should Be the Norm. Publications should be “born accessible.” No special workflows or post-publication enhancement or remediation. Standard publications should be created accessible. All publications should be equally accessible for one and all. The logo of Amnet with a tagline, Energizing Relationships, is at the bottom left corner. Page 3 The Continuous Effort of Accessibility. There was a significant 62 percent increase in digital accessibility lawsuits against businesses with accessibility widgets or overlays on their websites in 2023 compared to 2022. In 2023, there were 4,605 lawsuits filed in the United States related to web accessibility. This is a 5.44 percent jump in overall cases from 2022 to 2023. The logo of Amnet with a tagline, Energizing Relationships, is at the bottom left corner. Page 4 A poster featuring the thirty fourth anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), 1990 to 2024. A tagline reads, celebrate, learn, share. 34 years ago on July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law. This historic civil rights law protects the right of people with disabilities. Logo: Digita11y powered by Amnet. Free ADA and WCAG Compliance Digital Accessibility Scanner and Solutions. Web scanner, ePub scanner, File accessibility. Digita11y dot amnet dot com. The logo of Amnet with a tagline, Energizing Relationships, is at the bottom left corner of the poster. #ADA #ADA34 #accessibility ##ADAAnniversary #ADA34thAnniversary #InclusionMatters

Senator Tom Harkin released the following statement in honor of the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act being signed into law: “Today, July 26, 2024, marks the 34th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) providing civil rights protection for more than 42 million Americans with disabilities. As the lead sponsor of that bill, I know we have made progress in breaking down the physical barriers and in changing the attitudinal barriers that have for too long kept people with disabilities from full inclusion in all aspects of American life. We established four goals in the ADA: full participation, equal opportunity, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency. While we have made progress, those goals have still not been achieved. While 68 percent of non-disabled Americans are in the labor force, less than 25 percent of disabled Americans are employed. Those disabled persons who are employed are most often denied the training and career advancement opportunities provided for their non-disabled peers. To be sure, there are some outstanding employers who have stepped up to employ disabled persons in jobs with the same responsibilities, pay, and benefits as their non-disabled co-workers. We need more of these employers! Physical barriers continue to be erected. New inaccessible housing, much supported by taxpayers’ dollars, continues to be built, denying the disabled their ‘independent living.’ Early childhood interventions and education for those with intellectual or neurodiverse disabilities is a haphazard patchwork across the country. State Medicaid systems routinely try to save money by reducing services to the most severely disabled. Many Main Street businesses, including restaurants, still have not made their places accessible. Local governments have not made their public parks and recreation areas fully accessible. Going forward we need to incorporate ‘universal design’ in all new housing, commercial and government buildings, transportation, and technology platforms. We have found that if ‘universal design’ is incorporated at the beginning of the building process, the extra cost is minimal, and the benefits accrue to all, disabled and non-disabled alike, and aids in the prevention of injuries which can lead to more disability. Undeniably we have come far in meeting the goals of the ADA, but we have a long way to go, and we now need a new surge of commitment to fulfill those goals.”