Imagine navigating a world without sound or struggling to hear the voices around you. This is the daily reality for millions of Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals. In the pursuit of fostering true inclusion and accessibility, it’s crucial to understand their unique experiences. In our recent webinar, we delved deep into the world of Deaf and Hard of Hearing consumers, unearthing valuable insights that can shape a more inclusive future.
Dr. Mei Kennedy, a board member for Communication Service for the Deaf lead an in-depth discussion on how businesses and employers can better understand the experiences of their Deaf and Hard of Hearing customers, and in turn, create more accessible experiences. The discussion features community members whose professional experiences allow them a 360 degree view of the customer experience, Alok Doshi, Independent Design/Innovation Strategist for Silohack and R.M. Horrell, CEO of Mozzeria, and owner of Big Bully Roasters. The group explores how access to information and services is a fundamental right that everyone should enjoy. Yet, for people with disabilities, particularly those who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing, achieving this level of access can be a daily battle. In today’s digital age, businesses and organizations must prioritize making their content and services accessible to everyone.
Understanding the Deaf and Hard of Hearing experience requires a fundamental shift in how we approach communication. It’s not just about offering sign language interpreters; it’s about offering a holistic, inclusive experience that considers various communication modes. One example of this is to utilize the Universal Design approach, which focuses on creating solutions that fit all people, with or without disabilities. This webinar highlights the need to go beyond the basics and offer a more comprehensive accessibility framework.
Feel free to take in the insights yourself by watching the webinar recording on our YouTube channel below.
In conclusion, this webinar opens doors to a world that is often overlooked. It urges us to recognize the challenges faced by people with disabilities and motivates us to take proactive steps toward a more inclusive society.
Embracing accessibility is not just a legal requirement; it’s an act that benefits us all by fostering a world where everyone can participate fully. So, let’s make inclusion our mission and accessibility our priority.