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When it comes to improving the accessibility of your website, documents, or built spaces, the first step is always a detailed accessibility audit. It might sound like an involved and complicated task. Yet, it’s a critical tool when it comes to improving the accessibility and inclusivity of your organization.
In an era where inclusivity is not just valued but essential, the public sector in British Columbia is stepping up to the challenge. Recent legislation has introduced new accessibility requirements, marking a significant step towards a more inclusive society. This blog post explores these new mandates and how Accessibility Partners can play a pivotal role in aiding public sector organizations to meet these evolving standards.
Language is a powerful tool; it can inspire, comfort, and unite, but it can also oppress, demean, and divide. For the disability community, language plays a crucial role in the fight for inclusivity. It is especially significant in shaping public perception and personal identity.] In a society where words reflect and sometimes dictate our collective beliefs and behaviours, the careful selection of terminology is paramount. Yet, all too often, disability is discussed in a way that is euphemistic, reducing complex human experiences to seemingly innocuous terms.
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) mandates that organizations in Ontario create accessible environments for all individuals, regardless of their physical and mental capabilities. Understanding the legal obligations under AODA is crucial for businesses, non-profits, and public sector organizations. Equally important is being aware of the consequences of non-compliance, which can include financial penalties. This blog outlines these obligations and the potential penalties that organizations could face if they fail to adhere to the standards set by AODA.
Ontario has led Canada in recognizing the rights of people with disabilities to participate fully in the public sphere without physical and social barriers. Human rights legislation, including the Ontario Human Rights Code, has identified disability as requiring protection from discrimination since the 1980s, but Ontario was the first jurisdiction in Canada to enact legislation making it mandatory for public and private services and facilities to be fully implemented by AODA Compliance to people with disabilities with specific timelines and penalties for non-compliance.
Disability affects many Canadians. Over 22% currently have a disability and this figure increases to 38% for those over 65. With 1.85 million Ontarians affected, the prevalence of disability is expected to grow from one in six today to one in five in the next 20 years. These numbers will have an increasing influence on many Canadians as they consider the accessibility of businesses and services, often influenced by family members or friends with disabilities.
At Accessibility Partners, we are dedicated to helping organizations achieve and maintain compliance with legislation, including the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Our comprehensive accessibility audits and remediation services have enabled various organizations to enhance their digital accessibility. This blog highlights the successful outcomes of these initiatives (without revealing client details), showcasing our commitment to help create inclusive environments.
In a world where inclusivity is paramount, architecture stands as a silent yet powerful force shaping the accessibility of our built environments. It goes beyond just creating visually stunning structures; innovative architecture holds the potential to break down physical barriers and foster a more inclusive society.
Those with disabilities deserve the right to communicate and engage with society as easily as those without disabilities do. Although there are international laws to initiate accessibility standards, Canada has taken extra steps toward becoming a more accessible country for individuals.
Accessibility is fast becoming one of the core service pillars of government organizations and businesses. Now more than ever, organizations work to ensure that their spaces serve people with disabilities respectfully and comfortably. This shift is due to the advocacy of various disability groups, growing social consciousness, and accessibility laws such as the ADA, AODA, and ACA. Embarking on the accessibility journey can be daunting for beginners, but having a prudent accessibility plan is the key.
At Accessibility Partners, we specialize in ensuring compliance with accessibility standards. Let us handle all your accessibility needs efficiently, so you can focus on your core business. Trust our expertise to keep your organization accessible to all.