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How to combine EDI and Accessibility in an organization

By Angèle Joanne Charlebois posted 08-23-2024 14:32

  

There's a trend happening in organzations where Accessibility is included in EDI work (Equity, Diversity and Inclusion).  The Government of Canada is adopting that concept and calling it "IDEA work".  I am hoping to find someone I can have a discussion about strategies on how to integrate EDI work with Accessibility in an organization.  I can make myself available after my summer holidays (after September 12, 2024).   Feel free to send me an email and I will reply after September 12, 2024 ([email protected]). 

Thank you kindly.

Angèle & Mylo (Hearing Ear Service Dog).   

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Comments

Angèle Joanne Charlebois
01-13-2025 08:45

Hello Laura, Jill and Deborah, 

Feel free to send me an email at [email protected].  I would be interested in discussing a few ideas and strategies with any of you.  Thank you! 

A *smiles*

Laura Gale
01-12-2025 10:41

Hi Angele

I'm glad to hear that Canada is including disability in the definition of DEI.  My interest in accessibility comes from a framework of understanding disability as part of human diversity, and therefore a human rights issue. Accessibility and universal design are two of the main pathways to equity and inclusion. I'm in the U.S., but happy to chat about the issue more broadly. Feel free to email me. 

Jill Hart
01-07-2025 10:43

Hi Angele. Thank you for sharing this good news about the Canadian Government embracing the notion of IDEA.  I am so happy it is beginning to catch on! Of course, to your point, it will take collaboration across multiple departments for this approach to get traction within an organization or entity. 

Feel free to email me to discuss strategies further.  

Jill 

Deborah Doucette
11-11-2024 10:32

Hi Angèle,

I'm new to this community and happy to see your post about the IDEA workspace, a Canadian focus! 

I like the Government's IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility) framework promoting and aligning them all under a shared goal: inclusive access for everyone.

One of the biggest hurdles I've encountered is the absence of dedicated budget for IDEA work which usually means manual 'keyboard testing' is not carried out. Having everyone on-board will produce forward thinking with every project and instil a diverse and equitable outcome, every time.... so far. 

I have found that most medium to small companies and not-for-profit, only require an Accessibility Specialist for short contracts like "on-demand" expertise to help them meet IDEA workflow goals efficiently—this works great for quick project deadlines, seasonal demands, or specific compliance needs. 

I will drop you an e-mail. Happy to discuss further.

Deborah