Accessibility Stories and Interviews
Now that you have an inkling of how accessible the world can be, it is very important that you realize that empathy does not replace the need to engage with real people with disabilities. Listen closely to them as they explain their needs, challenges and ideas. Ask questions. Never assume that you fully understand the perspective of what it is like to have a disability just because you spent some time going through empathy simulations.
Ask Questions and Listen
Talk to real people with disabilities. Ask about insights on assistive technology and resources to overcome barriers. Listen to challenges and ideas for solving problems. Here are a few examples of questions you might ask people with disabilities who are available for interviews in the Awareness Lab:
- What is your current job?
- What are the key tasks you perform in your job?
- Do you use assistive technology in your daily work? If so, how do you use it?
- Are there any accessibility challenges in your job? What are they and how do you overcome them?
- What would you like others to know about accessibility?
- Who inspires you?
Accessibility Story Videos
While nothing beats a one-on-one conversation, here are some videos that can help you get a glimpse of different disability perspectives:
- Christina Ha: Winner of Master Chef – AT&T Experience More
- Aimee Mullins: My 12 pairs of legs – Ted Talk
- Stella Young: I’m not your inspiration, thank you very much – TEDxSydney