National Barrier Awareness Day
This occasion brings forward an opportunity to pay attention to and work to tear down the barriers that many people with disabilities face every day! Whether the barriers are physical ones, like lack of appropriate wheelchair entrances to buildings, or if the barriers are less tangible, like getting passed over...
Position your brand as an accessibility leader by showcasing inclusive design practices and commitment to removing barriers for employees and customers with disabilities.
- Audit your digital accessibility: share your company's journey to WCAG compliance and accessible design
- Employee spotlight: feature team members with disabilities and highlight how your workplace removes barriers
- Accessibility feature deep-dive: educate audiences on alt-text, captions, screen readers, and inclusive design best practices
- Partner with disability advocates: co-create content that amplifies voices from the disability community
National Barrier Awareness Day has roots that date back to the 1980s, when the topic of supporting persons with disabilities was coming more to the forefront in the US. In 1986, US President Ronald Reagan made a proclamation that this event should be observed with programs and activities that help to improve public attention to removing barriers to access.
This event was founded in advance of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, a fundamental Act of Congress that prohibits discrimination against people who have disabilities.
The world’s first comprehensive law defending the civil rights of people with disabilities, this act has made a vital impact on the lives and experiences of millions of people.
Other similar events that take place throughout the year include Disability Pride Month in July, National Disability Independence Day on July 26, and International Disability Day on December 3.
Speak Up About Barriers and Disabilities
Those who have disabilities can use their voices to speak up by writing, speaking and taking other opportunities, like social media. This is a great time to tell stories and experiences about the challenges faced due to disabilities and the ways their communities can help tear down those barriers!
Advocate for People with Disabilities
One of the barriers that many people with disabilities face is that their voices can often go unheard. In honor of National Barrier Awareness Day, consider engaging with the disability community, learning more, and helping advocate for the needs of others.
Become Familiar with Accessibility Features
A great way for people in the world to engage with National Barrier Awareness Day is to learn more about the different features that can help people with disabilities online and in person. From making websites easier to read for those who are visually impaired to using an Accessibility Checker to make sure documents and PowerPoint presentations are compatible, just paying a little more attention can make a big difference to someone with a disability!