I discovered this article by Karl Groves called Digital Accessibility is a Civil Right via a post on the Apolitical website and, although I recommend clicking through to read the whole post, I want to note some of the main points as a nod to Global Accessibility Awareness Day, which is coming up on Thursday 15 May 2025.
Karl’s article is framed as a response to a news article that ostensibly defends businesses and developers (who build inaccessible websites) against lawsuits in the United States. The main thrust of his response is that digital accessibility is not a legal loophole; it’s a civil rights issue to be taken seriously.
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Claiming that ‘the law predates the internet’ isn’t a valid excuse Although Karl’s article specifically references United States legislation, there is similar legislation here in Australia; the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.
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Accessibility standards exist and they are publicly available The idea that there are no clear standards for businesses to follow is wrong. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) is a detailed framework that is used world-wide that has existed since 1999.
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Participation in public life now happens online “To argue that accessibility is only important for physical building is to ignore reality.” Enough said!
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Accessibility is good business, not just compliance Accessibility is not charity or a specialised niche, its fundamental usability and it benefits everyone. Digital accessibility isn’t a fringe issue, it represents equal participation in modern life.
Global Accessibility Awareness Day is marked on the third Thursday in May. Check out the GAAD events page to see what’s happening in your corner of the world.