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Re: New forum created for the blind and visually impaired

for

From: Chagnon | PubCom
Date: Aug 25, 2014 12:49PM

Mary wrote:
"... if someone Googles web accessibility challenges and your forum comes
up, as well as the NFB certification, people will probably think only blind
people have trouble accessing the web...."

Mary has an excellent point.
I spend the first part of my accessibility classes (to US Federal employees)
demonstrating that accessibility isn't only for those who are blind. I have
a long list of disabilities, syndromes, and physical conditions that affect
how well someone can work with a computer.

Right now, I often hear the question, "why do we have to spend the time and
money to make our documents accessible when it affects only a small
percentage of the population?" Usually they cite 3% or 4% of the population
is blind.

We all know the answer: computer and information accessibility affects
closer to 25-30% of the population when all physical, mobility, and
cognitive disabilities are included.

John, I think it's ok to have a forum dedicated to accessibility for blind
and low-vision users, but it would be good for the community if you can
clarify that you're addressing only one facet of accessibility, not the
entire topic or everyone with a disability. It's the "strength in numbers"
theory...together, we can make more impact and change public opinion!

Just my 2 cents' worth.
-Bevi Chagnon

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