Striving to remove barriers that prevent us from building Vibrant, Diverse, Inclusive, Accessible Communities!
Listen to the (Audio) version of this Banquet Speech, Orlando, 2024
Mark A. Riccobono powerfully asserts, “The dignity of Blind People is often undermined by outdated attitudes and barriers that do not recognize their full potential.” This perspective highlights how communities frequently fail to uphold the inherent worth of Blind people, treating them as dependent rather than acknowledging their full capabilities and contributions. Dignity may be inherent, but there is an inequality between how it is perceived and experienced in our lives. If we fail to resist second-class treatment, if we value the charity offered to us over fulfilling the responsibilities inherent in equal rights, and if we internalize the external low expectations, we risk devaluing our dignity, we move further from equality... It is not enough for us to understand the dignity of being blind; we must teach the rest of society what we know. Just because we have our dignity does not mean we have realized full equality within society.
One striking example of this problem is the ongoing problem of digital accessibility. Despite significant advancements in web accessibility standards, many websites and digital platforms still present substantial barriers for Blind People. Websites that lack proper alt text for images or do not support keyboard navigation do exclude Blind users from accessing crucial information or participating in online activities. This demonstrates a critical gap between technological progress and the genuine commitment needed to create inclusive digital environments.
To address these problems, communities must not only adhere to accessibility guidelines but also embrace a deeper commitment to Dignity, Respect, and Determination. This involves recognizing and removing the barriers that prevent Blind People from fully participating in all aspects of life, both online and offline. Dignity requires acknowledging their worth, Respect means valuing their contributions, and Determination involves actively working to eliminate barriers and foster inclusion.
For a deeper exploration of these critical problems and actionable insights on bridging the gap in digital accessibility and community attitudes regarding the Dignity, Respect, and Determination of Blind People, read the full article:
Read the Full Article: Dignity, Respect, and Determination: The Momentum of the Blind People's Movement
by: Mark A. Riccobono
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