The New Year whispers promises of fresh starts and boundless possibilities. While personal goals tend to focus on individual growth, what if we harness this transformative energy to create a ripple effect of inclusivity? It’s time to elevate our accessibility game, not just with grand, sweeping gestures, but with tangible, everyday resolutions that pave the way for a more welcoming world.

1. Captions Everywhere, Not Just Anywhere

Remember that quirky friend who never labeled their Instagram pictures? Let’s not be that friend on a professional or personal level. Every video deserves clear, concise captions, and every image needs descriptive alt-text. It’s not just a courtesy; it’s a lifeline for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, or for those relying on screen readers. Imagine navigating a sea of visuals with no context — captions, and alt-text are the lighthouses that guide the way.

[1A] According to the World Health Organization, 466 million people worldwide have hearing loss.

[1B] A study by the National Center for Disability and Journalism found that captioned videos receive 93% higher views than uncaptioned videos.

[1C] 85% videos on Facebook are watched with sound off.

2. Building Spaces Everyone Can Call Home

Think beyond ramps and wheelchair slots. Accessibility encompasses a spectrum of needs, from sensitivity to sound and light to diverse communication styles. When designing physical or digital spaces, consider:

• Sensory considerations: Dimmable lights, designated quiet zones, and clear signage can make a world of difference for people with sensory sensitivities.
• Mobility variations: Consider ramps, wider doorways, and accessible furniture to ensure everyone can navigate the space with ease.
• Communication inclusivity: Offer different communication channels like email, instant messaging, or video conferencing to cater to diverse needs and preferences.

By actively designing for inclusivity, we create spaces where everyone feels comfortable and empowered to participate.

[2A] A study by the Cornell University ILR School found that companies with inclusive workplaces have 27% higher revenue and 21% higher profit margins.

[2B] The CDC reports that 61 million adults in the United States have a disability.

3. Amplifying the Voices We Often Miss

Imagine the richness of a symphony where only one instrument plays. Diversity of voices is not just a buzzword; it’s the key to fostering innovation, understanding, and progress. Actively seek out and share the experiences and perspectives of people with disabilities in your professional and personal circles. Listen to their stories, engage in open conversations, and amplify their voices in your networks. Remember, representation matters, and everyone’s effort can make a world of difference.

[3A] A report by the McKinsey Global Institute found that companies with diverse leadership teams are 21% more likely to outperform their peers financially.

[3B] A study by the American Psychological Association found that exposure to diverse perspectives can lead to increased creativity and problem-solving skills.

4. Speaking Up, Not Staying Silent

Witnessed an exclusionary practice? Don’t become a bystander. Become a proactive advocate for accessibility. It’s not about pointing fingers or shaming, but about constructively raising awareness, offering solutions, and collaborating with key stakeholders to create positive change. Remember, even small changes can have a significant impact.

[4A] A survey by the Pew Research Center found that 75% of Americans believe people with disabilities face discrimination in their daily lives.

[4B] A study by the Arc National found that speaking up for disability rights can lead to positive policy changes and increased awareness.

Bonus Resolution: Share the Love, Spread the Word💜

This journey towards an inclusive world is a collective effort. Share this article, comment your views on this, spark conversations about accessibility, and tag your friends and colleagues to join the movement.

Let’s make accessibility a trending topic in 2024, not just a hashtag, but a tangible action verb. Imagine a world where captions aren’t an afterthought, where spaces embrace diversity, and where every voice resonates. It’s not a utopia, it’s within reach, one resolution at a time.

Let’s level up accessibility in 2024. Together, we can create a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered to thrive.

#AccessibilityResolutions #InclusiveWorld #NewYearNewMe #LetsDoThis #DisabilityPride #InclusionEveryday #2024

References

[1A] World Health Organization. “Deafness and hearing loss.” https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/deafness-and-hearing-loss

[1B, 1C] Captions increase viewership, accessibility, and reach https://www.newtontech.net/en/blog/23083-captions-increase-viewership-accessibility-and-reach/

[2A] Cornell University ILR School. “The Business Case for Disability Inclusion.” ilr.cornell.edu. https://disabilityin.org/resource/business-case/

[2B] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Disability and Health.” https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/index.html

[3A] McKinsey Global Institute. “Delivering through Diversity.” mckinsey.com. https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/diversity-and-inclusion

[3B] American Psychological Association. “The Benefits of Diversity: How Variety Strengthens Groups.” apa.org. https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2014-19903-008

[4A] Pew Research Center. “The 2020 Survey of Americans with Disabilities.” pewresearch.org. https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2021/09/10/americans-with-disabilities-less-likely-than-those-without-to-own-some-digital-devices/

[4B] The Arc National. “Advocacy.” thearc.org. https://thearc.org/

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