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Access Information News for Monday, April 20, 2026 – Volume 1063

♿️ The Week’s News in Access Information

Access Information News. The world’s #1 online resource for current news and trends in access information.

A Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication

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Access Awareness: Updates That Matter ♿️

The Cooking Without Looking TV Show Challenge! | Cooking Without Looking | YouTube.com | April 16, 2026

Kicking off an unprecedented culinary showdown, Cooking Without Looking stages a tense timed faceoff as host Sylvia Stinson-Perez guides Flo Walsh and Micah Ranquist through surprise ingredient chaos. With just 20 minutes and only five chosen components, the competitors race to impress for the coveted Anyday Gourmet Microwave Cookware prize. Tensions and creativity run high as the first-ever battle brings real stakes to accessible cooking entertainment.

Join Us for the 2026 BPN Professional Empowerment Conference! | Blind Professionals Network (BPN)

Logo featuring three circular icons arranged around a central globe. Each circle contains a simplified figure using a white cane, representing blind or visually impaired individuals. To the right, bold serif text reads 'Blind Professionals Network'.

This year’s theme, “Building the Foundation for Transformative Action” — is more than just a title; it is a roadmap for your professional evolution

When: April 25, 2026

Time: 8AM CT to 5PM CT

Where: Both virtual and in-person at Houston Lighthouse for the Blind, 3602 W Dallas St Houston, TX 77019

Conference Highlights:

  1. Interactive Networking opportunities
  2. Professional Development Workshops
  3. BVI Professional Expert Panel
  4. HR Panel
  5. Technology Showcase
  6. Employment and Resource Exhibit Hall
  7. And much more

The Perks of Registration

Beyond the high-impact sessions, we’ve got you covered

  1. Complimentary breakfast and lunch are provided for all attendees
  2. BPN Pro Bag for every registered guest
  3. Empowering Door Prizes: Multiple chances to win

Our empowering keynote speaker will be the Founder/Executive Director of Connect Ministries, “Ms. Denise Caldwell”!

REGISTER TODAY to attend, exhibit, or sponsor.

News 📰️

👉 Submit a news article for free here, with timing and placement determined by our editors.

👉 Submit a Sponsored News Article here, with timing and placement determined by you.


1.) Top 5 Most Clicked News Articles From Last Week 📊️

A.) Podcast: Driven By Purpose Episode 48: The Reality of Bullying Kids with Disabilities (And What Parents Can Do) | April 13, 2026

In Episode #48 of Driven By Purpose, hosts tackle the difficult but essential topic of bullying faced by kids with disabilities, sharing real stories of children being mocked in school settings and the emotional toll it takes on families. The conversation explores why bullying happens, often rooted in insecurity and lack of exposure, and why inclusive environments, while important, aren’t always enough to protect kids once they step outside that bubble. The episode offers practical strategies for parents, including building support systems through structured environments like sports teams, preparing children emotionally for new settings, and focusing on educating others rather than just reacting. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or advocate for inclusion, this episode provides both perspective and actionable ideas for creating real change.

B.) CJAM 99.1 FM: 18 Years, One Microphone, and a Mission: How Cam Wells Built Canada’s Longest-Running Disability Radio Program | Aaron Di Blasi, PR Director | AT-Newswire.com | April 10, 2026

On Monday, April 6th, 2026, I received an email from a man named Cameron Wells. He had just read an issue of Access Information News, our weekly publication serving over 43,000 blind, low vision, deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, neurodivergent, and disabled professionals, educators, and enthusiasts worldwide, and he wanted to talk. Three days later, on April 9th, I was on a Zoom call with Cam, doing a short interview for his radio program on CJAM 99.1 FM in Windsor, Ontario, explaining what Access Information News is and how it got started. What I learned during that call stopped me in my tracks.

C.) Finding Your Caregiving Superpower: Reflections from a Blind Caregiver of a Parent with Dementia | NFB.org | April 8, 2026 | Courtesy of Editor: Dr. Kirk Adams

Catherine Samuel serves as the Director of Disability Resources at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, while also working part-time as a consultant for a data management company. For fun, she plays the trumpet with two community musical ensembles; enjoys hiking, tandem biking, kayaking, and cooking; and is studying Hindi. Yet somehow she still found the time to write this helpful article about her experience as a blind caregiver. Here is what she shares.

D.) Chuck E. Cheese Adds a New Twist to Sensory Friendly | DisabilityScoop.com | April 9, 2026

Chuck E. Cheese is expanding its sensory-friendly offerings to include “Sensory Sensitive Birthdays” at locations nationwide. Starting this month, families can customize party experiences by opting in or out of sensory elements like singing “Happy Birthday” or character visits. The new birthday option will run during existing sensory-friendly hours with trained staff and modified environments.

E.) In Remembrance of Jim Whittaker | Dr. Kirk Adams | April 9, 2026

Some people climb mountains. And some people are mountains, steady, generous, full of life, and quietly shaping the landscape around them. Jim Whittaker was both. When I heard of Jim’s passing at the age of 97, I felt that familiar mix of grief and gratitude, the kind that comes when someone has touched your life so deeply that their presence never quite leaves, even after they’re gone.

April 20, 2026 📅️

2.) Podcast: Driven By Purpose Episode 49: The Lamar Odom Story You Haven’t Heard (From Inside the Hospital) | April 20, 2026

In episode #49 of Driven By Purpose, former TMZ executive producer Evan Rosenblum recounts a night when two worlds collided inside the same hospital — while he broke the news of Lamar Odom’s overdose to the public, his own daughter was fighting for her life in the NICU just floors away, born prematurely at 25 weeks into what would become a 143-day battle. Moving past the tabloid headlines, Evan opens up about the life-and-death moments parents are never prepared for, a jarring confrontation with a doctor that reframed everything, and the surreal day years later when he finally met Lamar face-to-face and told him the whole story. It’s a raw meditation on perspective, assumption, and how little we really know about what anyone else is carrying.

3.) From the Sunflower Lanyard to Tuck the SEApup: How Seattle Is Quietly Setting the Bar for Accessible Air Travel | Dr. Kirk Adams | April 18, 2026

Yesterday I stood in the lobby of the Conference Center on the Mezzanine level of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport’s Airport Office Building, white cane in hand, when a Dalmatian named Tuck, a certified therapy dog in a bright green “Animal Therapy @ SEA” vest, a proud SEApup, leaned into my palm for a scratch behind the ear. Tuck was working. I was learning. And Seattle, quietly and without fanfare, was showing a room full of us what the most accessible airport in America is starting to look like.

4.) Bob Hall Has Died. The Father of Wheelchair Racing Made Boston Marathon History. | WashingtonPost.com | April 18, 2026

Bob Hall, the first official wheelchair champion of the Boston Marathon, has died. Hall became a landmark figure in sports history by competing as the only wheelchair athlete in the event’s 2,365-person field, paving the way for greater accessibility and recognition in marathon racing.

5.) Journeys Through Rough Country: Bringing My Doctoral Research on Blind Employment in Corporate America to the MoxieCon 2026 Stage: April 29, 2026 | Dr. Kirk Adams | April 18, 2026

I’m thrilled to share that on Wednesday, April 29, I’ll take the MoxieCon 2026 virtual stage to present the first major conference distillation of my doctoral research, a study I spent years on because the question at its heart would not leave me alone. Why are roughly 70% of working-age blind Americans out of the U.S. workforce, and what can we learn from the 30% who are in?

6.) Long-Awaited Safeguards For Medicaid Home And Community-Based Services Put On Hold | DisabilityScoop.com | April 17, 2026

Federal officials have delayed enforcement of a key mandate requiring states to establish a grievance system for Medicaid home and community-based services. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will postpone any enforcement action until December 31, 2027, citing states’ challenges in meeting the original July 2026 deadline for system implementation.

7.) States Increasingly Want Schools To Justify Their Placement Of Students In Special Ed | DisabilityScoop.com | April 17, 2026

Louisiana lawmakers advanced House Bill 342, which would require school districts to justify their special education decisions in due process hearings, shifting the burden of proof from parents to districts. Advocate Kathryne Hart and others argue this change could boost transparency and accountability. Opponents warn of more lawsuits and costs for districts.

8.) World-Renowned Accessibility Advocate Donna J. Jodhan Asks Who Takes Responsibility? | BarrierFreeCanada.org | April 17, 2026

Accessibility advocate Donna J. Jodhan argues that responsibility for digital accessibility belongs to everyone involved in creating and delivering online systems. She warns that accessibility cannot be treated as an afterthought, urging organizations to make it a central design requirement, enforced through clear guidelines, testing, and training.

9.) What It’s Really Like Growing Up Gay In A Strict Religious Community | Molly Burke | YouTube.com | April 17, 2026

Bringing her signature candor to a complex topic, Molly Burke explores the realities faced by LGBTQ+ youth entrenched in strict religious settings. Drawing on personal stories and raw conversations, Molly unearths the emotional dynamics and resilience required to navigate identities in environments where acceptance is not a given.

10.) I Was Yelled At For Being Blind… | Molly Burke | YouTube.com | April 17, 2026

Confronting a jarring real-life moment, Molly Burke recounts an incident where her blindness became the target of public hostility. Sharing her perspective as a visually impaired creator, Molly offers both personal insight and a call for deeper empathy in both online and offline spaces.

11.) From the American Council of the Blind: Reintroduction of the Communications, Video, and Technology Accessibility Act | American Council of the Blind | April 16, 2026

The American Council of the Blind announces the reintroduction of the Communications, Video, and Technology Accessibility Act, a bipartisan bill updating the 2010 CVAA to strengthen closed captioning and audio description, improve video conferencing access, expand equitable access to 9-1-1 services, and ensure accessibility rules keep pace with AI and virtual reality.

12.) California Updates Education and Workforce Dashboard With New Accessibility Features | StateScoop.com | April 16, 2026

California officials have launched an upgraded Student Pathways Dashboard, adding enhanced accessibility and mobile features to better serve residents making college and career decisions. Executive Director Mary Ann Bates said the redesign integrates improved screen reader compatibility and brings interactive data visualizations on-site, complying with DOJ accessibility mandates.

13.) Sens. Markey, Lujan, Reps. Dingell, Fitzpatrick Reintroduce Bill to Ensure Communication and Video Technologies Are Accessible to People With Disabilities | Markey.senate.gov | April 16, 2026

Senators Ed Markey and Ben Ray Lujan, along with Representatives Debbie Dingell and Brian Fitzpatrick, have reintroduced the Communications, Video, and Technology Accessibility Act (CVTA) to expand and modernize the CVAA. The bipartisan bill would improve closed captioning and audio description standards, enhance accessibility for video conferencing and 9-1-1 services, and empower the FCC to update rules for AI and virtual reality platforms.

14.) Inclusivity and Accessibility at Walworth Garden, and Why It Wants More | ProLandscaperMagazine.com | April 16, 2026

Walworth Garden, a London-based horticultural school and charity led by chief executive Oli Haden, prioritizes inclusivity and accessibility through points-based recruitment and tailored courses. Training 91 students this year, 25 of whom have disabilities or neurodiversity, Walworth is building a fully accessible Environmental Learning Centre with support from Veolia Environment Trust and other funders.

15.) 2026 Grand Prix of Long Beach: How the Race Has Sought To Be Accessible for People With Disabilities | WhittierDailyNews.com | April 16, 2026

The 51st Grand Prix of Long Beach, held April 17-19, incorporated measures like designated ADA routes, accessible parking, elevators, and golf cart shuttles to improve event access for attendees with disabilities. According to CEO Jim Liaw and Councilmember Mary Zendejas, partnerships with Accessibility Live and ADA-compliant features ensure the event meets both legal and community standards for inclusion.

16.) ‘Love On The Spectrum’ Renewed As Drama Surrounds Cast Members | DisabilityScoop.com | April 16, 2026

Netflix has renewed its Emmy-winning documentary series “Love on the Spectrum” for a fifth season. The renewal coincides with significant cast changes: Madison Marilla and Tyler White became the first couple to get engaged on the show, while other couples have split or started new relationships. The premiere date for the new season has not been announced.

17.) The Cooking Without Looking TV Show Challenge! | Cooking Without Looking | YouTube.com | April 16, 2026

Kicking off an unprecedented culinary showdown, Cooking Without Looking stages a tense timed faceoff as host Sylvia Stinson-Perez guides Flo Walsh and Micah Ranquist through surprise ingredient chaos. With just 20 minutes and only five chosen components, the competitors race to impress for the coveted Anyday Gourmet Microwave Cookware prize. Tensions and creativity run high as the first-ever battle brings real stakes to accessible cooking entertainment.

18.) We Asked Hilton Guests About Be My Eyes. Here’s What They Said | BeMyEyes.com | April 15, 2026

Since October 2024, Hilton guests in the US and Canada have accessed real-time visual assistance via the Be My Eyes Service Directory. Users report improved autonomy, with founder Hans Jorgen Wiberg noting its practical benefits during CSUN 2026. Typical uses include TV operation, reading menus, adjusting thermostats, and confirming accessibility features in rooms.

19.) Accessible Venues for All: The Evolution of Inclusion with VisitAble | Ed Henkler, The Blind Guide | April 15, 2026

It has been nearly five years since I first wrote about Joe Jamison and his mission to make the world a more welcoming place. In that time, the landscape of accessibility has shifted significantly. What started as a promising pilot program in Charlottesville, Virginia, has evolved into a movement. He is redefining what accessible venues for all truly looks like in practice. As many of you know, my passion for accessibility is deeply personal, rooted in my mother Jane’s journey with vision loss and my own work through The Blind Guide. Whether it’s navigating a restaurant or finding a hotel that understands the nuances of disability etiquette, the goal is always the same. We want to move from simply “complying” with the law to truly thriving in our communities.

20.) ICEB Announces This Year’s Mid-Term Executive Committee Meeting Is Moving Online | ICEB.org | April 15, 2026

The International Council on English Braille has voted to convert its August 2026 mid-term executive committee meeting into a fully virtual event. Member countries and interested observers will be able to join the discussions via Zoom once further details are posted.

21.) Kane County Board OKs ADA Accessibility Measure Regarding Website, Meeting Documents | ChicagoTribune.com | April 15, 2026

Kane County Board has approved a measure to ensure that all online county materials, including meeting agendas and documents, are ADA-compliant by the federal deadline of April 24, 2026. Inaccessible supporting documents will no longer be posted online but will remain available through FOIA requests and in-person viewing. The policy aims to satisfy updated DOJ Title II ADA rules for local governments.

22.) Santa Fe’s One-Person ADA Office Making Progress on Accessibility at Public-Facing Buildings | SantaFeNewMexican.com | April 15, 2026

Daniel Lopez, Santa Fe’s equity and ADA manager, is leading efforts to improve accessibility at public buildings across the city, including City Hall and local libraries. Recent upgrades include accessible parking, hearing loop systems, and redesigns of high-traffic locations. Lopez, the sole staffer dedicated to accessibility, is updating the city’s transition plan for its 150 facilities.

23.) Wheelchair Bar Row Not Uncommon, Coronation Street Star Says | BBC.com | April 15, 2026

Cherylee Houston, Coronation Street actor and disability rights campaigner, responded after a Manchester nightclub ejected 18-year-old Maddie Haining, a wheelchair user, labeling her a fire risk. Houston called the event “shocking and outrageous” but noted such discrimination remains routine, citing ongoing accessibility and inclusion failures in many UK venues.

24.) Disability Experts Say Ann Arbor Has Room To Improve Voter Accessibility | WEMU.org | April 15, 2026

A review by Detroit Disability Power found that only 2 of 23 Ann Arbor polling sites in the November election had full accessibility — including parking, entrances, voter-assist terminals (VATs), and wheelchair-height booths. Advocacy director Eric Welsby attributes most deficiencies to incomplete VAT setup and recommends better poll worker training as a cost-effective solution.

25.) Lookouts Respond to Fans Concern Over Accessibility Features at Brand New Erlanger Park | NewsChannel9.com | April 15, 2026

Some Chattanooga Lookouts fans raised concerns that ADA-compliant features at Erlanger Park were lacking or hard to access on opening night. Managing Owner Jason Freier cited logistical challenges with new construction and explained the deliberate restriction of online ticket sales for wheelchair spaces to prevent misuse. The ADA requires equal access to ticketing for accessible seats.

26.) Mall of America, Fraser Boost Sensory Inclusion & Accessibility | Audacy.com | April 15, 2026

Mall of America has partnered with Minnesota nonprofit Fraser to enhance sensory inclusion and accessibility, launching new features like improved sensory rooms, calm areas, and digital guides for guests with autism, neurodiverse conditions, and sensory sensitivities. Staff training and updated signage are also part of the initiative, with the changes beginning to roll out across the mall and its major attractions.

27.) Advocates Urge More Parking Access for All, Challenge Florida Law Impacting Disability Spaces | DREDF.org | April 15, 2026

United Spinal Association and plaintiffs filed a federal complaint challenging a Florida law allowing anyone who is pregnant to park in disability spaces without proving a mobility impairment. Plaintiffs argue this violates the ADA, with individuals like Kimberly Harrison and Olivia Keller describing increased barriers. The case seeks to rescind such permits or require separately designated pregnancy parking.

28.) Kane County, Ill., Approves Online Accessibility Measure | GovTech.com | April 15, 2026

Kane County, Illinois, will now post only ADA-compliant materials online, following updated DOJ regulations for the Americans with Disabilities Act that require state and local government websites to be accessible to people with disabilities by April 2026. Supporting documents that cannot be made compliant will be provided via FOIA requests or in-person viewing.

29.) How Blind Boy Brewing Is Redefining Accessibility for the Craft Beer Industry | BeerAndBrewer.com | April 15, 2026

Jacob Viel, founder of Blind Boy Brewing and legally blind, has developed an inclusive approach to craft beer in Brisbane, implementing accessible design features such as braille labeling and high-contrast branding. After earning medals at the 2026 Royal Queensland Beer Awards, Viel now advocates for increased accessibility and employment opportunities for people with disabilities in the brewing industry.

30.) Hobby Lobby Discriminated Against Man With Intellectual Disabilities, Jury Finds | DisabilityScoop.com | April 15, 2026

A federal jury determined that Hobby Lobby violated the Americans with Disabilities Act by discriminating against Charles ‘Chip’ George, a man with intellectual disabilities, after ejecting and pepper-spraying him at a Louisiana store. George was awarded $10,000 in damages, far less than the original $450,000 sought. Plaintiffs now seek a court order for nationwide ADA training at Hobby Lobby locations.

31.) “What Can I Do?” | HadleyHelps.org | April 15, 2026

Char Cook of Portland, Oregon, details her journey from anger at losing her vision due to retinitis pigmentosa to a renewed outlook after a pivotal conversation at the Oregon Commission for the Blind. Char found that volunteering and supporting others, like distributing homemade soup, became a key source of happiness and purpose as she adapted to life with vision loss.

32.) These Students Are Ready, Are You With Us? | Team See Possibilities | April 15, 2026

Team See Possibilities announces that applications for the 2026-27 TSP Scholars Program are underway, offering up to $5,000 scholarships, leadership development, and peer mentorship for high-achieving college students who are blind. Every donation made through July 1 will be matched up to $150,000. The new TSP Scholar Speaker Series enables current scholars to mentor younger blind students nationwide.

33.) Retail Websites Among Worst Performers as Accessibility Standards Continue to Slip | InternetRetailing | April 14, 2026

Retail websites are the poorest performers for digital accessibility, with new research showing they are significantly more difficult for people with disabilities to use than the average website.

34.) ACLU and Other Organizations Warn Meta Against Adding Facial Recognition to Smart Glasses | Mashable.com | April 14, 2026

Mashable reports that more than 70 civil-society groups, including the ACLU and Fight for the Future, have signed a coalition letter urging Meta to immediately halt and publicly disavow plans to add facial recognition technology to its Ray-Ban and Oakley smart glasses.

35.) Does Medicare or Medicaid Affect iCanConnect Eligibility? | iCanConnect.org | April 14, 2026

iCanConnect explains how federal healthcare programs interact with its National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program. Medicaid can make the application process faster because income documentation is already on file, while Medicare has no effect on eligibility, which is based on combined hearing and vision loss and household income.

36.) NLS Job Announcement: Reading Disability and Low Vision Program Specialist, Washington, DC | USAJobs.gov | April 14, 2026

The National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled has posted a GS-13 permanent position for a Reading Disability and Low Vision Program Specialist in its Patron Engagement Section in Washington, DC. The vacancy is open to all applicants through May 5, 2026.

37.) Seeking a Lift: Queens Lawmaker Urges MTA To Equip More 7 Train Stations With Elevators | AmNewYork.com | April 14, 2026

Assembly Member Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas called on the MTA to install elevators at four inaccessible 7 train stations in Queens, including 82 St-Jackson Heights, prioritizing upgrades in the current or next capital plan. While the MTA promised upgrades at 60 stations by 2029, only 103 St-Corona Plaza is on the current list. Local officials argue delays leave working-class and immigrant neighborhoods behind.

38.) Over the Rainbow Association Works to Build More Accessible Housing in Chicago | WTTW.com | April 14, 2026

The Over the Rainbow Association, led by Eric Huffman, is expanding Chicago’s accessible housing with a new Lakeview building and two more projects in development. OTR caps rent at 30% of residents’ income, contrasting with other accessible housing models. Waitlists remain lengthy, with some properties reportedly seeing 60 people vying for just 8 apartments.

39.) For Patrons With a Disability, Masquerade Is a Journey That Is Accessible for All | Playbill.com | April 14, 2026

Masquerade, an immersive Phantom of the Opera experience in New York City, features a dedicated access team and an “ADA track” to ensure patrons with a range of disabilities can fully participate. Meg Masseron details how butlers guide guests with needs such as seating and sensory accommodations, while senior producer Cesar Hawas emphasizes that accessibility was prioritized from the initial design phase.

40.) Deadline Nears For New ADA Requirements | DisabilityScoop.com | April 14, 2026

New DOJ regulations expanding the Americans with Disabilities Act to cover web and mobile accessibility for state and local governments are scheduled to take effect this month. Disability advocates, including Jennifer Mathis from the Bazelon Center, are concerned about possible delays as the Justice Department reviews cost implications and considers exemptions for smaller entities. Major organizations argue that entities have had years to prepare, while some government groups request more time and modifications.

41.) Federal Appeals Court Rebukes State For Institutionalizing Kids | DisabilityScoop.com | April 14, 2026

A federal appeals court found that Florida’s failure to provide adequate in-home nursing forced at least 139 children with severe disabilities into nursing homes and left 1,800 others at risk. Upholding a 2023 district court ruling, the court ordered the state to improve community-based care and criticized Florida’s reliance on overwhelmed managed-care providers. DOJ’s lawsuit cited violations of the ADA and systemic barriers for families.

42.) This Inclusive Restaurant Offers Trendy Foods, a Neurodivergent-Friendly Space | DisabilityScoop.com | April 14, 2026

Shariece Simbahon and Coltin Sisk established Da Spot in Gladwin and Bay City, Michigan, to provide a dining environment accommodating for neurodivergent children like their daughter Skye. The restaurant offers sensory-friendly spaces, interactive activities, and a menu focused on waffles and trending treats, aiming to create a judgment-free experience for families. Simbahon and Sisk plan to expand the concept internationally.

43.) I Don’t Think There Will Be A Wedding… | Molly Burke | YouTube.com | April 14, 2026

Opening up to her audience, Molly Burke reveals personal reflections on why marriage might not be in her future plans. She shares candid anecdotes and draws from her unique experience navigating life, relationships, and the expectations often placed on people with disabilities.

44.) Essential Tips to Help People Making a New Claim for Devolved Disability Benefits | Daily Record | April 13, 2026

A new checklist from Social Security Scotland helps people making a new claim for Adult, Child, or Pension Age Disability Payments – walking through documentation, timing, and support options to avoid common claim pitfalls.

45.) The Accessibility Problem Isn’t Design, It’s Engineering | Gbbns.co | April 13, 2026

The featured essay in Accessibility Weekly issue #495 argues that nine months after the European Accessibility Act deadline, audits and published compliance statements have done little to shift industry behavior, and that sustained change requires treating accessibility as an engineering discipline rather than a design problem.

46.) April Is Poetry Month, Come Sit By the Fire | DrKirkAdams.com | April 13, 2026

Dr. Kirk Adams reflects on National Poetry Month, highlighting poetry as a bridge for inclusion, accessibility, and belonging, especially within DEIAB contexts. Adams shares how accessible formats like braille and the work of poets such as Sonia Sanchez and Audre Lorde foster empathy and amplify voices at the intersection of race, disability, and identity.

47.) ABC International Excellence Awards Recognize Zanichelli Editore S.p.A. (Italy) and Fundacao Dorina Nowill Para Cegos (Brazil) | WIPO.int | April 13, 2026

The Accessible Books Consortium named Italy’s Zanichelli Editore and Brazil’s Fundacao Dorina Nowill para Cegos winners of the 2026 ABC International Excellence Award for accessible publishing. Both organizations were recognized for embedding accessibility into educational publishing and producing high-quality materials for print-disabled readers.

48.) Online Banking Accessibility: Opening an Account | UsableNet.com | April 13, 2026

UsableNet examines the accessibility of online account-opening flows at banks and financial institutions, identifying common barriers for screen reader and keyboard-only users and outlining the remediation patterns that actually work.

49.) The MTA Just Announced Major Accessibility Improvements Are Coming to 11 Subway Lines This Spring | TimeOut.com | April 13, 2026

The MTA is rolling out a series of accessibility upgrades across 11 New York City subway lines this spring, with modernized elevators and escalators already in service at key stations such as 14th Street–Union Square and DeKalb Avenue. The upgrades require planned outages, sometimes lasting months, as elevator replacement involves extensive overhauls including new cabs, shafts, and monitoring technology. More than 50 elevator projects are currently underway or planned across major stations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx.

50.) A Bill Would Explore Making NH a ‘Technology First’ State on Disability. Here’s What That Means. | NewHampshireBulletin.com | April 13, 2026

New Hampshire lawmakers are considering HB 1685, which would create a commission to study adopting a “technology first” framework for disability services, prioritizing assistive technologies to address caregiver shortages. Rep. Heath Howard says this move could boost inclusion and attract high-tech companies, mirroring approaches in states like Missouri and Ohio.

51.) Matan Nonprofit Launches New Initiative to Promote Disability Accessibility in Jewish Institutions | Algemeiner.com | April 13, 2026

Matan, a New York City-based nonprofit focused on disability awareness, has launched the “Matan Alliance for Disability Inclusion,” inviting Jewish institutions in the US to improve accessibility. A recent Matan report found that 20 percent of Jews have been turned away from activities due to inaccessibility, and over 80 percent of Jewish institutions lack a dedicated office for disability oversight.

52.) La. House Advances Bill to Improve Traffic Stops for Drivers With Disabilities | WAFB.com | April 13, 2026

Louisiana’s House passed HB 590 in a 96-0 vote, aiming to improve traffic stop safety for drivers with mental, physical, or developmental disabilities. The bill proposes free green and blue envelopes to alert law enforcement about disabilities or autism, includes handouts with traffic stop safety guidelines, and does not require medical documentation or fees. The measure now moves to the Senate.

53.) Burbank’s New Trail Accessibility Program Connects Wheelchair Users With Hiking | NBCLosAngeles.com | April 13, 2026

Burbank has launched the San Fernando Valley’s first trail accessibility program, offering two Action Trackchair AXIS 40 mobility devices for wheelchair users to access the Stough Canyon Fire Trail. Senior Recreation Leader Sam Cohen-Suelter noted the unique level of community support for the initiative, while Joci Scott, a program participant, highlighted its impact in enabling more rigorous hiking experiences for all ability levels.

54.) HHS’ Office for Civil Rights Secures Provider Compliance With Disability Rights Laws | HHS.gov | April 13, 2026

The Office for Civil Rights at the Department of Health and Human Services has secured settlements with San Juan Capestrano Hospital in Puerto Rico and Innovis Health (Essentia Health West) in Minnesota after finding violations of federal disability rights laws. Both providers will make system-wide changes to ensure effective communication for deaf patients, including timely access to qualified interpreters and improved staff training.

55.) Family Caregivers Provide Over $1 Trillion In Care Annually | DisabilityScoop.com | April 13, 2026

A report from AARP estimates 59 million family caregivers supplied 49.5 billion hours of mostly unpaid care for adults with disabilities and complex conditions in the US over the past year, valued at $1.01 trillion. This figure surpasses total federal, state, and local Medicaid spending in 2024. AARP continues to advocate for paid leave, tax credits, and respite services to support caregivers.

56.) A Handy Guide to Accessibility Settings on Modern Devices. Your Ageing Parents Will Thank You | The Indian Express | April 12, 2026

A practical walkthrough of the accessibility features built into modern phones, tablets, and computers – from screen magnifiers and voice control to captions and high-contrast displays – aimed at helping aging parents get the most from their devices.

57.) Accessible Mass a Reminder That Every Person Has a Place in Church | CathNews.com | April 12, 2026

Holy Cross South Kincumber Catholic Church on the New South Wales Central Coast has launched a monthly Accessible Mass designed to welcome individuals and families with disabilities, neurodiversity, or additional needs. Supported by Mission Broken Bay and Catholic Schools Broken Bay, the initiative features resources such as an easy-read visual story to facilitate inclusive participation and comfort for all attendees.

58.) The R-Word Was Taboo as a Slur for People With Disabilities. Now It’s Being Normalized Again | CBC.ca | April 12, 2026

Resurgence of the R-word as a slur against people with intellectual and developmental disabilities has drawn concern from advocates including artist Liz Etmanski and Paul Etherington of Motionball. Despite efforts to curb its use in the 2010s, public figures such as Elon Musk, Joe Rogan, and Donald Trump have used the term, leading to a spike in its prevalence on social media and calls for renewed education.

59.) Disabled People | EveningNews24.co.uk | April 12, 2026

Josh Twigden, managing director of Bewick Homes, told Norwich City Council that disabled tenants could seek housing elsewhere after the council raised accessibility concerns about a Thorpe Road flat conversion. The council threatened to refuse retrospective planning permission due to a lack of adequate disabled access, which could result in tenant evictions if unresolved.

60.) Champion Drums Up Accessibility for Student | TribToday.com | April 11, 2026

Champion Middle School’s FIRST Robotics team engineered a custom drum mount for Allan Mulloy, a 14-year-old with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, enabling him to participate fully in the high school marching band. Superintendent John Grabowski, band director Derek Kittle, and Facilities Director Mark Harper also oversaw installation of wheelchair-accessible ramps at performance sites.

61.) How TEFCA Is Speeding up Disability Benefits Determinations at Hospitals | MedCity News | April 10, 2026

The Social Security Administration’s move onto the TEFCA interoperability framework is beginning to streamline disability determinations by enabling faster exchange of medical records from hospitals. Dr. David Kaelber, chief health informatics officer at MetroHealth System in Ohio, said the shift is replacing a months-long, fax-driven process with near real-time data sharing.

62.) Paramount Theatre Tests New Accessibility Equipment to Improve Accessibility at Film Screenings | CastanetKamloops.net | April 10, 2026

The Kamloops Film Society is piloting descriptive audio headphones and closed captioning devices at Paramount Theatre, funded by the federal Enabling Accessibility Fund. Executive director Colette Abbott notes the technology will soon be available to all patrons, with plans to expand offerings based on demand. The venue will also host its first sensory-friendly screening on April 18, in partnership with Canucks Autism Network and Social Butterflies.

63.) A Europe-Wide Celebration of Accessibility in Football | UEFA.com | April 10, 2026

AccessibAll’s #TotalAccess Week of Action brought together national associations and clubs across Europe to advance inclusion for disabled fans. Initiatives included audio-descriptive commentary at matches in Italy and Croatia, dedicated quiet rooms, and the awarding of Access Champions Recognition to AEK Athens and Toulouse. UEFA updated its Accessibility Guidelines and stadium regulations as part of ongoing partnership efforts.

64.) Cambridge Teen Named 2026 Provincial Easter Seals Ambassador | CBC.ca | April 10, 2026

Miles Checkley, a 16-year-old from Cambridge with cerebral palsy, has been appointed the 2026 Provincial Easter Seals Ambassador. He will travel across Ontario advocating for accessibility and inclusion, sharing his experiences at events throughout the province. Easter Seals Ontario cites his long-standing involvement in accessible camps and his drive to promote what youth with physical disabilities can achieve.

65.) Loper Bright Reaches the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act | The Legal Intelligencer | April 9, 2026

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the federal statute that guarantees children with disabilities special education services, but the IDEA’s text does not speak to many issues that arise in special education cases.

66.) While AI Is Building the Web Faster Than Ever, Accessibility Can’t Be Left Behind | Digiday (Sponsored by AudioEye) | April 9, 2026

AI has given marketers speed: landing pages that used to take weeks now take minutes, and product content scales without headcount. But AudioEye CMO Chad Sollis argues most marketing teams haven’t reckoned with the accessibility side effects of that pace – and the experiences being built risk leaving disabled users behind.

67.) Hilton Joins Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Programme in Singapore | Travel Daily Media | April 9, 2026

Hilton hotels in Singapore have joined the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme, training staff to recognize the sunflower lanyard as a discreet signal that a guest may need additional time, patience, or support.

68.) Two SDNY Decisions in One Week Show Courts Are Done Messing Around With Questionable Accessibility Litigation | ButtonDown.com | April 9, 2026

Access-Ability reviews two Southern District of New York decisions issued within one week in which courts dismissed ADA Title III website accessibility suits on procedural and substantive grounds, signaling increasing skepticism toward high-volume plaintiff-firm litigation.

69.) How to Prepare for Ethnicity and Disability Pay Gap Reporting | Personnel Today | April 8, 2026

Mandatory ethnicity and disability pay gap reporting is set to go ahead. What steps can employers take now to ensure they have the right frameworks in place?

70.) Facing the Loss of Government Disability Benefits, Ian Wonders if CPP, OAS and a Small Inheritance Will Be Enough | Financial Post | April 8, 2026

Family Finance: facing the loss of government disability benefits, Ian weighs CPP, OAS, and a small inheritance. A financial planner says one critical tool is leveraging his TFSA to maximize every available income source.

71.) Anyone Can Reach the Stars: Experiences From a Space Camp Alum | SCIVIS.org | April 8, 2026

A Space Camp for Interested Visually Impaired Students alum shares experiences from the SCIVIS program at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, highlighting the program’s role in exposing blind and low vision students to science and engineering careers.

72.) Neil Barnett Succeeds Jenny Lay-Flurrie as Microsoft’s Chief Accessibility Officer | LinkedIn.com | April 8, 2026

Jenny Lay-Flurrie announced on LinkedIn that she is stepping down as Microsoft’s Chief Accessibility Officer after more than a decade in the role, with Neil Barnett succeeding her. Both leaders posted about the transition.

73.) Trump Administration Withdraws Appeal, Securing Historic Victory for Libraries and IMLS | ALA.org | April 7, 2026

The American Library Association reports that the Trump administration has withdrawn its appeal in the lawsuit over the dismantling of the Institute of Museum and Library Services, preserving a lower-court ruling that halted the agency’s shutdown.

74.) ‘Code of Silence,’ ‘Pulse’ and More Honored by Ruderman Family Foundation for Portrayals of Characters With Disabilities | Variety | April 6, 2026

Crime drama series ‘Code of Silence’ and Netflix medical drama ‘Pulse’ are among the five productions that will receive the Ruderman Family Foundation’s Seal of Authentic Representation, recognizing TV programs that offer authentic portrayals of characters living with disabilities.

75.) TAD Foundation Fellowship Applications Remain Open for Blind and Low-Vision Students | TAD Foundation | April 6, 2026

The TAD Foundation is accepting applications for its Fellowship program, which pairs blind and low-vision students with career mentors and supports placements across industries including technology, finance, government, law, and mission-driven organizations. Past Fellowship placements include Amazon Web Services, Apple, Goldman Sachs, Xcel Energy, Greenberg Traurig, and the United States Air Force.

76.) TAD Foundation Opens Sidewalks Mentorship Applications for Families of Blind or Low-Vision Children | TAD Foundation | April 6, 2026

The TAD Foundation is accepting applications for Sidewalks, a one-on-one mentorship program that pairs families of newly diagnosed blind or low-vision children with parent mentors who have walked the same road and with blind or low-vision young adults who share lived experience. Applications are open both to families seeking support and to mentors willing to give back.

77.) A Deep Dive Into China’s Efforts to Integrate AI Into K-12 Education to Reduce Teacher Workloads, Improve Rural Schools, and Help Students With Disabilities | ChinaTalk via Techmeme | April 5, 2026

Pilot schools in China are already using AI to grade children’s artwork, monitor their facial expressions during lectures, and provide personalized support for students with disabilities – an ambitious effort aimed at reducing teacher workloads and lifting rural schools.

78.) If You Care About Accessibility, Your Links Matter More Than You Think | Substack.com | April 4, 2026

Diana writes about the accessibility impact of link text, explaining why vague phrases such as ‘click here’ and ‘read more’ disadvantage screen reader users and what content creators should do instead.

79.) Career Talk: Succeeding in the Tech Sector With Andrew Hodgson | TaviP.org.uk | March 30, 2026

TAVIP releases the recording of a Career Talk with Andrew Hodgson, a blind systems and platform engineer, who discusses his twenty-year career across financial services, retail, and energy and shares interview tips and tool choices for blind professionals entering tech.

80.) Travel for All: 6 of the World’s Most Accessible Destinations | TheWeek.com | February 19, 2026

Berlin, Singapore, and Sydney are recognized for their extensive barrier-free infrastructure, wheelchair-accessible public transit, and inclusive cultural venues. Major cities like Cape Town and Rio de Janeiro are also praised for implementing citywide tactile and braille guidance, accessible transportation, and sensory-led tours, improving travel for people with disabilities worldwide.

81.) Responsible Travel Urges Companies to Back Accessible Trips | TravelWeekly.co.uk | February 18, 2026

Responsible Travel is calling on the industry to address an “information vacuum” after YouGov research found 41% of UK adults travel with access or health needs. Co-founder Justin Francis notes significant demand for accessible trips, while 67% of surveyed holiday firms lack online accessibility info. Experts warn that failing to adapt risks missing out on a rapidly growing market.

82.) 5 US National Parks With Great Accessibility for Disabled Visitors | AOL.com | February 15, 2026

Yosemite, Grand Teton, Grand Canyon, Mammoth Cave, and Acadia National Parks have implemented new accessibility features, including paved trails, shuttle buses with wheelchair lifts, and sensory exhibits, according to officials like Jeremy Buzzell of the National Park Service. US residents with permanent disabilities are eligible for lifetime free park access via the America the Beautiful pass.

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April 22, 2026 | Clearview Go: Portable Video Magnification For Home, Work, And On The Go (ACVREP CE Approved, Assistive Technology Webinar) | Access Ingenuity

10:00 AM PT, 11:00 AM MT, 12:00 PM CT, 1:00 PM ET, 5:00 PM GMT
Explore the features and real-world applications of the ClearView Go portable video magnifier in this detailed session from Access Ingenuity. Ian Ramos and Joe McDaniel highlight usability, setup, and comparisons to help users enhance productivity across environments.

April 23, 2026 | 2026 Virtual Hike: Mexico; Moderated Discussion With Ofelia Montelongo And Dr. Manuel R. Cuellar | Maryland State Library For The Blind And Print Disabled

3:00 PM PT, 4:00 PM MT, 5:00 PM CT, 6:00 PM ET, 10:00 PM GMT
Join the Maryland State Library For The Blind And Print Disabled for an engaging virtual discussion featuring Ofelia Montelongo and Dr. Manuel R. Cuellar, exploring the significance of Mexican literature in conveying culture, history, and lived experience. This interactive session offers insight into the enduring impact of storytelling and invites audience participation in a guided conversation.

April 23, 2026 | Webinar From Humanware: Prodigi for Windows v1.6 Update | Humanware

8:00 AM PT, 9:00 AM MT, 10:00 AM CT, 11:00 AM ET
Humanware’s Product Management Team hosts an open webinar walking through Prodigi for Windows version 1.6, which introduces a new Windows interface mode, a quick-access Apps feature, and additional updates, with live audience Q&A.

April 24, 2026 | Free Open House & 23rd Birthday Celebration | Florida Outreach Center For The Blind, Inc.

Join Florida Outreach Center For The Blind, Inc. for a special open house celebrating 23 years of empowering individuals who are blind or visually impaired through free training and support. Guests can tour the facility, meet staff and students, and learn about the organization’s impactful programs and services.

April 27, 2026 | The Future of Braille Productivity: Using the BrailleSense With the Dot Pad X | Dot Inc.

9:00 AM PT, 10:00 AM MT, 11:00 AM CT, 12:00 PM ET
Dot Inc. and Selvas BLV host a webinar demonstrating how the BrailleSense notetaker connects with the Dot Pad X to deliver tactile graphics, with speakers Dave Williams, Timothy Hornik, and Jenny Axler. The session includes a live demonstration and audience Q&A.

April 28, 2026 | Tech It Out | Hadley

11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT
Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.

April 29, 2026 | MoxieCon 2026 North America | Springboard Consulting

6:00 AM PT, 7:00 AM MT, 8:00 AM CT, 9:00 AM ET, 1:00 PM GMT
Join Springboard Consulting for this full-day virtual conference focused on advancing disability inclusion in the workplace, featuring expert-led sessions from leaders across corporate, accessibility, and DEI spaces. Highlights include Dr. Kirk Adams presenting insights from his doctoral research on blind employment in corporate America, offering practical perspectives on inclusion, accessibility, and workforce equity.

April 29, 2026 | Part 2 — Creating Accessible Microsoft Word Files: Converting To PDF And Cleaning Tags And Final Fixes In Adobe Acrobat (Digital Accessibility Webinar) | Access Ingenuity

10:00 AM PT, 11:00 AM MT, 12:00 PM CT, 1:00 PM ET, 5:00 PM GMT
Access Ingenuity continues its series with a deep dive into refining PDFs in Adobe Acrobat, focusing on tag cleanup, reading order, and final accessibility checks. Rachel Reeves outlines a complete workflow to ensure documents meet accessibility standards before distribution.

May 3, 2026 | Birdability’s Blind Birder Bird-A-Thon | Birdability

Join Birdability for the Blind Birder Bird-A-Thon, a free, two-day, community-driven birding experience designed by and for blind and visually impaired birders. Participants are encouraged to explore their surroundings through sound, celebrating access, inclusion, and belonging in birding by ear from anywhere birds sing.

May 4, 2026 | Birdability’s Blind Birder Bird-A-Thon | Birdability

Join Birdability for the Blind Birder Bird-A-Thon, a free, two-day, community-driven birding experience designed by and for blind and visually impaired birders. Participants are encouraged to explore their surroundings through sound, celebrating access, inclusion, and belonging in birding by ear from anywhere birds sing.

May 9, 2026 | Advanced Features Victor Reader Stream 3 | Technology User Group Maryland State Library For The Blind And Print Disabled

7:00 AM PT, 8:00 AM MT, 9:00 AM CT, 10:00 AM ET
Join the Technology User Group Maryland State Library for the Blind and Print Disabled for a hands-on session exploring the advanced and often overlooked capabilities of the Victor Reader Stream 3. This interactive workshop covers powerful features including note organization, enhanced reading formats, Audible integration, and streamlined settings to help users maximize productivity and accessibility.

May 20, 2026 | NFBMD Senior Issues Division Conference Call: Discovering the Joy of Travel as Older Adults | National Federation of the Blind of Maryland

4:00 PM PT, 5:00 PM MT, 6:00 PM CT, 7:00 PM ET
The NFB of Maryland Senior Issues Division hosts a conference call exploring travel adventures for blind and low-vision seniors, with speakers Joanne Wilson, Chris Danielsen, and Eileen Ley sharing firsthand experiences. The call is dial-in only on the NFB of Maryland conference line.

May 21, 2026 | Global Accessibility Awareness Day | The GAAD Foundation

Join The GAAD Foundation on May 21, 2026, for the 15th Global Accessibility Awareness Day, a worldwide initiative designed to raise awareness about digital access and inclusion for more than one billion people with disabilities. The day encourages individuals, organizations, and developers to explore how technology can be designed and built to be accessible for all.

May 26, 2026 | Tech It Out | Hadley

11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT
Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.

May 30, 2026 | The Carroll Center For The Blind 14th Annual Walk For Independence | The Carroll Center For The Blind

6:00 AM PT, 7:00 AM MT, 8:00 AM CT, 9:00 AM ET, 1:00 PM GMT
Join The Carroll Center For The Blind for a community-focused walk at the Mount Ida Campus of UMass Amherst, featuring a 1 to 3-mile route followed by a celebratory gathering with food, accessible activities, and assistive technology demonstrations. This event supports efforts to empower individuals with vision loss while bringing the community together to promote independence and inclusion.

June 12, 2026 | Accessibility Summer Camp 2026 Registration Is Open | Accessibility Summer Camp

7:00 AM PT, 8:00 AM MT, 9:00 AM CT, 10:00 AM ET, 2:00 PM GMT
Join Accessibility Summer Camp for a full-day virtual conference focused on accessibility, hosted via the Canvas Catalog platform. Attendees can take advantage of early bird pricing, group discounts, and guided support for registration, payment, and account setup.

June 23, 2026 | Tech It Out | Hadley

11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT
Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.

July 3, 2026 | 2026 National Federation of the Blind Convention | NFB

The National Federation of the Blind advances the lives of its members and all blind people in the United States. Each year, we come together for important discussions, decisions, and information sharing. As an attendee, you will have the opportunity to: Network with thousands of blind people. Connect with leaders in the field of blindness. Attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics. Learn about the latest technology and innovation. And much more. The convention is open to all. If you are attending the convention in Austin, Texas, register for the 2026 NFB National Convention now! Online registration is $25 and closes May 31. Registration will be available on-site at the convention, but the cost will increase. By registering, you will gain access to the largest gathering of blind people in the world, the agenda, the app, and timely convention news and communications. Virtual Experience Registration. If you cannot attend the convention in Texas, we offer opportunities for engagement and connection through the Virtual Experience. The registration fee is $10. Register for the 2026 NFB National Convention Virtual Experience. Your registration includes access to the app, the ability to stream sessions from anywhere, and the opportunity to win door prizes.

July 4, 2026 | 2026 National Federation of the Blind Convention | NFB

The National Federation of the Blind advances the lives of its members and all blind people in the United States. Each year, we come together for important discussions, decisions, and information sharing. As an attendee, you will have the opportunity to: Network with thousands of blind people. Connect with leaders in the field of blindness. Attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics. Learn about the latest technology and innovation. And much more. The convention is open to all. If you are attending the convention in Austin, Texas, register for the 2026 NFB National Convention now! Online registration is $25 and closes May 31. Registration will be available on-site at the convention, but the cost will increase. By registering, you will gain access to the largest gathering of blind people in the world, the agenda, the app, and timely convention news and communications. Virtual Experience Registration. If you cannot attend the convention in Texas, we offer opportunities for engagement and connection through the Virtual Experience. The registration fee is $10. Register for the 2026 NFB National Convention Virtual Experience. Your registration includes access to the app, the ability to stream sessions from anywhere, and the opportunity to win door prizes.

July 5, 2026 | 2026 National Federation of the Blind Convention | NFB

The National Federation of the Blind advances the lives of its members and all blind people in the United States. Each year, we come together for important discussions, decisions, and information sharing. As an attendee, you will have the opportunity to: Network with thousands of blind people. Connect with leaders in the field of blindness. Attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics. Learn about the latest technology and innovation. And much more. The convention is open to all. If you are attending the convention in Austin, Texas, register for the 2026 NFB National Convention now! Online registration is $25 and closes May 31. Registration will be available on-site at the convention, but the cost will increase. By registering, you will gain access to the largest gathering of blind people in the world, the agenda, the app, and timely convention news and communications. Virtual Experience Registration. If you cannot attend the convention in Texas, we offer opportunities for engagement and connection through the Virtual Experience. The registration fee is $10. Register for the 2026 NFB National Convention Virtual Experience. Your registration includes access to the app, the ability to stream sessions from anywhere, and the opportunity to win door prizes.

July 6, 2026 | 2026 National Federation of the Blind Convention | NFB

The National Federation of the Blind advances the lives of its members and all blind people in the United States. Each year, we come together for important discussions, decisions, and information sharing. As an attendee, you will have the opportunity to: Network with thousands of blind people. Connect with leaders in the field of blindness. Attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics. Learn about the latest technology and innovation. And much more. The convention is open to all. If you are attending the convention in Austin, Texas, register for the 2026 NFB National Convention now! Online registration is $25 and closes May 31. Registration will be available on-site at the convention, but the cost will increase. By registering, you will gain access to the largest gathering of blind people in the world, the agenda, the app, and timely convention news and communications. Virtual Experience Registration. If you cannot attend the convention in Texas, we offer opportunities for engagement and connection through the Virtual Experience. The registration fee is $10. Register for the 2026 NFB National Convention Virtual Experience. Your registration includes access to the app, the ability to stream sessions from anywhere, and the opportunity to win door prizes.

July 7, 2026 | 2026 National Federation of the Blind Convention | NFB

The National Federation of the Blind advances the lives of its members and all blind people in the United States. Each year, we come together for important discussions, decisions, and information sharing. As an attendee, you will have the opportunity to: Network with thousands of blind people. Connect with leaders in the field of blindness. Attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics. Learn about the latest technology and innovation. And much more. The convention is open to all. If you are attending the convention in Austin, Texas, register for the 2026 NFB National Convention now! Online registration is $25 and closes May 31. Registration will be available on-site at the convention, but the cost will increase. By registering, you will gain access to the largest gathering of blind people in the world, the agenda, the app, and timely convention news and communications. Virtual Experience Registration. If you cannot attend the convention in Texas, we offer opportunities for engagement and connection through the Virtual Experience. The registration fee is $10. Register for the 2026 NFB National Convention Virtual Experience. Your registration includes access to the app, the ability to stream sessions from anywhere, and the opportunity to win door prizes.

July 8, 2026 | 2026 National Federation of the Blind Convention | NFB

The National Federation of the Blind advances the lives of its members and all blind people in the United States. Each year, we come together for important discussions, decisions, and information sharing. As an attendee, you will have the opportunity to: Network with thousands of blind people. Connect with leaders in the field of blindness. Attend presentations on a variety of empowering topics. Learn about the latest technology and innovation. And much more. The convention is open to all. If you are attending the convention in Austin, Texas, register for the 2026 NFB National Convention now! Online registration is $25 and closes May 31. Registration will be available on-site at the convention, but the cost will increase. By registering, you will gain access to the largest gathering of blind people in the world, the agenda, the app, and timely convention news and communications. Virtual Experience Registration. If you cannot attend the convention in Texas, we offer opportunities for engagement and connection through the Virtual Experience. The registration fee is $10. Register for the 2026 NFB National Convention Virtual Experience. Your registration includes access to the app, the ability to stream sessions from anywhere, and the opportunity to win door prizes.

July 28, 2026 | Tech It Out | Hadley

11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT
Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.

August 25, 2026 | Tech It Out | Hadley

11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT
Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.

September 22, 2026 | Tech It Out | Hadley

11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT
Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.

October 27, 2026 | Tech It Out | Hadley

11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT
Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.

November 24, 2026 | Tech It Out | Hadley

11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT
Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.

December 22, 2026 | Tech It Out | Hadley

11:00 AM PT, 12:00 PM MT, 1:00 PM CT, 2:00 PM ET, 7:00 PM GMT
Learn a few tips about everyday technology from a technology expert, ask your questions, and share your experiences.

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In addition to serving as an Editor to Access Information News David also serves as an Editor to the Top Tech Tidbits publication and is also the National Commercial Assistive Technology Advisor for Vision Australia where he has worked since 1990. Over this time he has assisted people who are blind or vision impaired in their home, education, and work settings to take advantage of the benefits of using assistive and main stream technology.

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David Woodbridge

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Mastodon: woody@dragonscave.space
iSee Podcast: https://davidwoodbr.podbean.com
Vision Australia Radio Talking Tech: https://omny.fm/shows/talking-tech-vision-australia-radio

Editor (2023-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits 🌐
The Week’s News in Access Technology

Editor (2023-Present)
Access Information News 🌐
The Week’s News in Access Information

National Commercial Assistive Technology Advisor
(1990 – Present)

Vision Australia 🌐
Live the life you choose. We’re here to support all Australians who are blind or have low vision.


Editor: Vicki Walton


Editor Since: January 9, 2024

Location: Benton City, WA

Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time (PST/PDT) (GMT-6/GMT-7)

IIn addition to serving as an Editor to Access Information News Vicki also serves as an Editor to the Top Tech Tidbits publication and works as a Web Accessibility Specialist / IT Quality Assurance Tester at Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges.

Vicki Walton

Editor (2024-Present)
Top Tech Tidbits 🌐
The Week’s News in Access Technology

Editor (2024-Present)
Access Information News 🌐
The Week’s News in Access Information

Web Accessibility Specialist / IT Quality Assurance Tester
Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges 🌐
Better Jobs, Brighter Futures, a Stronger Washington

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Founded in 2022, Access Information News is the world’s leading not-for-profit access information news publication that reaches over 43,000 blind, low vision, deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, neurodivergent and/or disabled professionals, educators and enthusiasts, all over the world, each week, along with the caregivers, companies and organizations that serve and support them. Subscribe here. Review the most recent issues here. Access Information refers to informational topics that directly affect the lives of people with disabilities. Access Information includes any and all information related to bettering the lives of people who are blind, low vision, deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, neurodivergent and/or disabled. Access Information News is a Mind Vault Solutions, Ltd. Publication. Publisher: Aaron Di Blasi. Editors: John Hanlin, Jenna Lang, David Woodbridge and Vicki Walton. Access Information News is a sponsor, reader and advertiser supported publication.

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