Historical Milestone Timeline

Milestones:

historical

Disability, Society, Technology & Policy

Start

Brain-Computer Interfaces

Electric Vehicles

AI & Machine Learning

3D Printing

Quantum Computing

ARPANET

Internet

Disability Justice Movement

21st Century Comm.

Infrastructure Investment & Jobs

Cares Act

Smart Phones

Voice Recognition Software

Assistive Technoogy

Cochlear implants

Atomic Energy

Compact Discs

Hearing Aids

Polio Vaccine

Jet Engine

Electric Wheelchair

Braille Typewriter

Technology

Racial Justice (2020s)

Dreamers Act

Racial Justice (1980s)

Reproductive Rights

Native American Rights

#MeToo Movement

Civil Rights Act (1957)

LGBTQ+ Rights

Disability Rights

Harlem Renaissance

Disabled Veterans

Social Movements

ADAA

Telecommunications Act

Education for All

ADA

Architectural Barriers

No Child Left Behind

SSA Amendment

Immigration Act

Housing Act 1949

Social Security Act

19th Amendment

Policy

Gitanjali Rao

Jessica Cox

Tim Berners-Lee

Malala Yousafzai

Hugh Gallagher

Sinéad Burke

Sir Ludwig Guttman

Gunnar Dybwad

Ed Roberts

Louis Braille

Gandhi

Table of Contents

People

FDR Presidential Library & Museum, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

People

This section explores important individuals in the past century who had a major impact on society through philanthropy, innovation, and instigating positive change through diversity and inclusion.

In a gentle way, you can shake the world.-Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi

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Louis Braille

Inventor of the Braille system in the 19th century.
Transformed literacy for the visually impaired, leading to educational reforms and better access to jobs.
Overcame challenges like high material costs.
His legacy emphasizes inclusive design, impacting modern assistive technologies.

Key figure in independent living movement. Founded first Center for Independent Living in Berkeley.

Empowered individuals to live independently, promoting community integration.

Shifted perceptions of disability rights, but faced criticism for individual responsibility focus.

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Ed Roberts

Gunnar Dybwad

Gunnar Dybwad: Advocate for Disability Rights
Promoted inclusive policies & special education
Reframed disability as a civil rights issue
Pioneered self-advocacy for empowerment

Note: Focused on developmental disabilities; broader needs may not be fully addressed.

Info

Sir Ludwig Guttmann, a pivotal figure in sports medicine, founded the Paralympic Games to promote sports for rehabilitating individuals with disabilities. His work transformed views on disability and highlighted the importance of physical activity in rehabilitation.

Sir Ludwig Guttman

Hugh Gallagher (left) with Alaska Senator Bob Barlett in the 1980s

Hugh Gallagher helped draft the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968, the first law affirming the rights of people with disabilities.
His efforts led to the Act, mandating federally funded buildings be accessible, promoting inclusion.

Hugh Gallagher

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Judith Heumann

Key disability rights activist.
Advocated for education and employment, creating opportunities and rights for disabled individuals.
Highlighted barriers and promoted understanding.
Critique: Focus on legal solutions may overlook social and cultural factors in marginalization.

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Tim Berners-Lee

He invented the World Wide Web, revolutionizing access to information and transforming communication.
His work made information accessible globally, allowing diverse connections and collaborations.

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Cox became the first licensed armless pilot, challenging perceptions of disability and inspiring many.
Her resilience increased visibility for people with disabilities and promoted inclusion.
Her story emphasizes the need for inclusivity and breaking stereotypes
It’s crucial to acknowledge that her achievements don’t represent all individuals with disabilities.

Jessica Cox

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Malala's advocacy for education and women's rights has inspired millions, especially young girls, to demand equal opportunities. Her work highlights the need for education and breaking barriers for girls, leading to increased investment and access worldwide.

Malala Yousafzai

Link

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Burke, a Little Person, advocates for inclusivity in fashion, urging designers to to ask “is this accessible?”
She has been featured in Vogue, TED Talks, and World Economic Forum.
She hosts a podcast, "As Me" with famous guests that challenge unconcious biases
Authored a children's book Break the Mould
Founder of Tilting the Lens, a consultancy firm dedicated to accessibility

Sinéad Burke

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Rao talks about her journey to innovation by overcoming fear of failure and leaning into her passions

Gitanjali Rao

Inspired by Flint Michigan water crisis, she developed a device to detect lead content in water
An award-winning innovator, Rao is a model of success in STEM for young women
Although not focused on disability rights, her advocacy promotes diversity and accessibility in society, including for people with disabilities

Policy

This section explores impactful legislative initiatives that made advancements in diversity, inclusion, and accessibility.

Secured voting rights for U.S. women
Key step for gender equality
Empowered millions for better representation
Sparked political and social reforms
Turning point for marginalized groups
Energized broader civil rights initiatives

"The Office: For every social security account number issued an employee master card is made in the Social Security board records office. Baltimore, Maryland, 1937." by polkbritton is marked with Public Domain Mark 1.0.

Social Security Act of 1935

The Social Security Act of 1935 marked a pivotal shift in the U.S. welfare system, establishing the modern safety net. Key provisions:1. Old-age pensions2. Unemployment insurance3. Aid for children & disabilities4. State grants for public healthLimitations:

Excluded 65% of African Americans (domestic/agricultural workers)
Gender bias favored men, disadvantaging women

Boston Mayor Curley & President Truman campaigning in Boston, 1948 (The West End Museum Archives)

Despite its intent to increase access to housing accommodations, it in increased poverty and displacement of low-income individuals.

Housing Act of 1949

Aimed for affordable housing and better living conditions.
Expanded public housing with federal loans for 810,000 new units.
Lowered income limits for eligibility.

Amendment to SSA (1950)

Social Security Act Amendments of 1950 signed by Truman (August 28):

Expanded disability eligibility
Increased benefits for those in need
Opposition from American Association of Social Workers for a more equitable approach
Advocated for grants-in-aid to states

Emphasized skills and family ties Dismantled discrimination, promoting equality Removed health exclusions Reshaped demographics and U.S. identity

President Lyndon B. Johnson gives Edward (Ted) Kennedy a pen, while others, including Robert Kennedy and Vice President Hubert Humphrey look on.

For 40 years before the Immigration and Nationality Act, U.S. immigration laws favored northern Europeans while discriminating against southern and eastern Europeans, barring Asians and non-whites. The Act abolished quotas, prioritizing immigrants based on skills and family ties, aiming to promote national growth and inclusivity.

Immgration & Nationality Act of 1965

Inaccessible curb, late 20th century. Division of Medicine and Science collections.

The Architectural Barriers Act ensures accessibility in federally funded buildings, enabling further disability rights.

The 1968 Act prohibits discrimination in housing sales and rentals based on various factors including handicap (Fair Housing Act).

Facilities before the law may not be covered; however, changes post-law may require compliance

Architectural Barriers Act

Read the Bill

Education for All Handicapped Children Act (1975)

Guaranteed a free, appropriate public education to children with disabilities, eventually evolving into the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This law had a profound impact on educational opportunities and access for children with disabilities.

ADA Anniversary: What Does the Future Look Like for People with Disabilities at Work?

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Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – 1990

A landmark federal anti-discrimination law protecting individuals with disabilities.
Signed into law by President George H.W. Bush on July 26, 1990.
Key Protections:

Employment: Prohibits discrimination; bans pre-employment medical exams.
Transportation: Ensures accessibility in public and private transit systems.
Public Accommodations: Requires accessibility in public spaces and services.
Telecommunications: Mandates relay services and closed captioning for accessibility.

The ADA covers individuals with physical, emotional, and learning disabilities, as well as those perceived to have disabilities.

Telecommunications Act of 1996

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No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB)

The No Child Left Behind law increased the federal role in holding schools accountable for student outcomes, focusing on improving performance for English learners, special education students, and disadvantaged children. States faced loss of federal funds if they didn't comply with the new requirements.

Perspective: The Impact of the ADA

Watch Cecilia explain in sign language how the ADA has improved her quality of life

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The Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act (ADAA) of 2008 amended the ADA of 1990 to simplify proving disability.
It broadened the definition of disability, stating that an impairment limiting one major life activity qualifies as a disability, regardless of its effect on other activities.
The ADAAA also prohibits employment discrimination against qualified individuals with disabilities in hiring, promotions, pay, and other opportunities.

Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA – 2008)

Read the Bill

This act mandates accessible technology in communications and video programming, advancing equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities in the digital age, including web accessibility requirements.

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21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act (2010)

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Signed by President Joe Biden on November 15, 2021, the $1.2 trillion IIJA modernizes U.S. infrastructure, creating jobs and addressing sustainability. Key Highlights

Transportation: $110 billion for roads/bridges, $66 billion for rail, $39 billion for transit.
Broadband: $65 billion to expand access and affordability.
Water Systems: $55 billion to upgrade and remove lead pipes.
Clean Energy & Climate: $65 billion for grid updates, $47 billion for resilience.
EV Charging: $7.5 billion for a national network.

The act boosts economic growth, tackles infrastructure gaps, and promotes equity and sustainability.

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (2021)

CARES Act

The CARES Act provided financial aid through stimulus checks for individuals, including those with disabilities facing job loss. Expanded unemployment benefits supported many, especially in minority communities hit hard by job losses.

The Act improved telehealth services, allowing individuals with disabilities to access healthcare more easily.
Increased funding for health services, particularly mental health, was crucial for minority groups facing higher mental health issues.

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Social Movements

This section goes over social movements which have shaped our world over the last century, with diverse groups united for change, fighting for justice, equality, and human rights. These movements challenged oppression and transformed societies globally, influencing our views on power, identity, and the future.

"VA Hospital Northampton MA 1924" by jeffwaypics is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

September 25, 1920

Brig. Gen. Frank T. Hines became first Administrator

President Herbert Hoover responded to challenges to veterans' reforms by merging three agencies:

Veterans’ Bureau
National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers (NHVDS)
Pension Bureau

The Disabled Veterans Movement (1930s)

July 21, 1930:

Signed Executive Order 5398, creating Veterans Administration (VA)

July 23, 1930

July 1, 1931

VA fully operational

Disabled American Veterans of the World War (DAVWW) was officially created

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The Harlem Renaissance was a cultural and artistic movement during the 1920s and 1930s in Harlem, New York, where African American artists, writers, and musicians celebrated Black identity and creativity.This era gave rise to iconic figures like Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Duke Ellington, whose work showcased the richness of African American culture.

Harlem Renaissance

Disability Rights Movement (1950s)

The 1950s saw significant progress toward creating a more accessible society, driven by economic growth, suburbanization, and advocacy movements:

Parents of children with disabilities, alongside disabled veterans and individuals with disabilities, pushed for community inclusion, independent living, and barrier-free environments.

These efforts were inspired by the African-American Civil Rights Movement’s challenges to segregation

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Read the Bill

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The Civil Rights Act (1957)

First major federal attempt at voting rights for marginalized groups.
Influenced disability rights movement.
Led to Civil Rights Act of 1964
Discrimination against people with disabilities persisted.
Disability rights activists adopted civil rights tactics, e.g., sit-ins.

Key issues: land rights, treaty violations, poverty, education, police brutality

Native American Rights Movement (1960s-70s)

Dreamers and Immigration Advocacy

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In 2017, the #metoo hashtag went viral and woke up the world to the magnitude of the problem of sexual violence.
What had begun as local grassroots work had now become a global movement — seemingly overnight. Within a six-month span, the message reached a global community of survivors.

#MeToo Movement

On May 25, 2020, White Minnesota Police Department Officer Derek Chauvin killed a Black man named George Floyd after kneeling on his neck for nearly 8 minutes and 46 seconds. The incident sparked a months-long wave of nationwide protests against police brutality and related injustices against Black Americans. This attitudinal shift created a policy window for local, state, and federal changes to policing and the criminal justice system, "Black Lives Matter," a movement which ushered in a series of policy and organizational changes to policing that include implicit bias trainings, body cameras, and bans on no-knock warrants.

The Racial Justice Movement (2020s)

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Disability justice advocates emphasize the ongoing health and socio-economic impacts of COVID-19 on disabled individuals, including those with long-COVID. As society pushes for a ‘return to normal,’ the struggles of those with chronic illnesses and disabilities continue, particularly affecting Black, Indigenous, people of color, women, and LGBTQ+ communities. The disability justice movement highlights our interdependence, challenging individualism and promoting communal support. By valuing care work, we can create a world where everyone's strengths support each other, ensuring no one is left behind.

The Disability Justice Movement (2020s)

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Technology

This section highlights definitive technologies, including devices and applications, which have paved the way for major advancements and equipped underrepresented populations with tools and access to greater success and quality of life.

Electric Wheelchair (1920s and 30s)

In the early 20th century, mobility aids began to incorporate electric propulsion, reflecting technological advancements and growing attention to the needs of individuals with mobility challenges. This early electric-powered chair was revolutionary for its time, providing mobility and autonomy to individuals who might otherwise have been confined to manual options. This was particularly important for disabled veterans returning from World War I as well as those who developed paralysis from the Polio outbreak.

Braille typewriters, introduced in the 1930s, significantly improved communication for visually impaired individuals.

They enhanced productivity and increased access to education for these individuals.

Braille Typewriters

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Despite advancements, air travel remained largely inaccessible for disabled individuals.

Jet Engine (1930s)

The 1930s marked the beginning of efforts to address accessibility issues through inclusive air travel solutions.

Jet engines transformed the travel industry, making it faster and more efficient.

These early changes laid the groundwork for ongoing accessibility improvements in aviation.

"Vintage Small Beltone Model F 'Futura' Transistor Hearing Aid, Produced by Beltone Electronics Corporation of Chicago, IL, Circa 1963" by France1978 is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.

Hearing aids have been around for centuries, but the transistor hearing aid revolutionized interaction for the deaf in the 1940s.
Accessible and effective, they enhance communication, boost social inclusion, and foster independence.
Earlier devices were costly, bulky, and stigmatizing, yet they spurred advances in assistive technology and emphasized normalizing disability.

Hearing Aids

First introduced in 1955
Major public health breakthrough
Dramatically reduced polio cases
Shifted focus from managing to preventing disability
Mostly eliminated in developed nations
Ongoing struggles still persist in low-income countries.

Polio Vaccine

The 1940s marked the atomic energy revolution, significantly transforming energy production and medical technology.
This era catalyzed research advancements in health and rehabilitation, particularly through radiation therapies.

The developments underscored existing gaps in safety measures, particularly for those with disabilities.
Emphasizes the critical need for inclusive safety considerations in emergency preparedness and response.

Atomic Energy (1940s)

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Assistive products include wheelchairs, glasses, prosthetics, canes, hearing aids, and digital solutions like speech recognition and captioning.
Users often require multiple products, highlighting the need for integrated services.
Over 2.5 billion people globally need assistive products.
By 2050, an estimated 3.5 billion will need assistive technology due to an ageing population and rising diseases.
Many in need of assistive technology lack access.

Assistive Technology

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Cochlear implants since the 1970s have transformed hearing for the profoundly deaf, improving communication and integration. However, ethical concerns arise over medical intervention vs. Deaf culture identity, including the implications of implanting children without consent and the demise of sign language learning.

Cochlear Implant (1960-70s)

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Arpanet

ARPANET (Advanced Research Projects Agency Network) enabled the internet, transforming global communication and access to information.
Initially created to link computers at research institutions and government facilities for resource sharing and collaboration.
Early internet accessibility was limited, lacking tools for users with disabilities.
By the 1990s, the rise of digital accessibility led to standards like Web Content Accessibility Guides (WCAG).

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The Internet

The Internet's development in the 1980s transformed communication and information sharing, offering accessible platforms for education and social interaction for users with disabilities.
From early chat rooms to today's social media and online shopping, it has enabled remote work, education, and global connectivity, particularly benefiting people with disabilities by enhancing independence and access to resources.
However, accessibility remains an issue, with alt-text and captions often omitted, excluding those with impairments. Organizations like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and Google are working to create a more equitable internet experience.

Voice recognition technology began in the 1980s, allowing users to interact with computers via speech, greatly assisting those with mobility or visual impairments.
It enables individuals with disabilities to control devices using voice commands, improving independence and productivity.
There is a need for inclusive technology and more accessibility features. Early systems faced issues like inaccuracy with accents and privacy concerns.

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Voice Recognition Software

Implications on Accessibility

While CDs transformed the music and data storage sectors, their design created significant barriers for individuals with visual impairments. A positive outcome of this innovation is that CDs offered a high-quality, durable storage option for audio, video, and data, benefiting numerous industries and consumers alike.

CDs lacked tactile markings and auditory signals, making it difficult for visually impaired individuals to identify them independently.
This focus on visual formats hindered accessibility efforts in digital music.
The design limitations emphasized the need for inclusive media formats.

Introduced in the 1980s, compact discs changed how data is stored and consumed, enhancing access to educational materials and entertainment for individuals with disabilities.

Compact Discs (CDs)

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Smartphones have transformed communication, work, and daily life, especially for people with disabilities through accessibility features like voice control and screen readers. This democratization of technology allows for independent navigation of the digital world.

Smart Phones

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3D printing enables the creation of custom, affordable assistive devices like prosthesis tailored to individual needs.

It provides people with physical disabilities access to personalized technology, enhancing functionality and comfort beyond mass-produced options.

Access to 3D printing technology remains limited by cost and availability, restricting benefits for some regions.

3D printing has sparked discussions on affordable, customized solutions for disabilities, showcasing emerging technologies' potential for accessibility and empowerment.

3d Printing

Brain-Computer Interfaces

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Electric vehicles have significantly lowered emissions and paved the way for a greener transportation future, benefiting society at large.

The emergence of EVs highlighted the importance of inclusive design in new technologies, shaping future discussions around universal accessibility in transportation and infrastructure.

The absence of accessible infrastructure, like charging stations, meant that individuals with mobility impairments were often left out of the initial advantages of electric vehicle ownership.

Disabled motorists face significantly fewer options for suitable EV models compared to non-disabled users.

Electric Vehicles

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AI and machine learning have revolutionized accessibility by developing adaptive technologies tailored to individual requirements. Tools such as predictive text and image recognition enhance digital content accessibility, empowering individuals with disabilities in various aspects of education, work, and daily life.

Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence

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Quantum Computing

Quantum computing could revolutionize data processing, but it's still inaccessible to the public, including those with disabilities. Its complexity and few practical uses limit its impact on accessibility, raising concerns about widening the digital divide for marginalized groups. The focus on advanced scientific applications has overlooked immediate accessibility needs.

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More harm than good?

The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) of 2001 was widely criticized for its rigid emphasis on standardized testing and punitive accountability measures. While aimed at improving educational outcomes, it often led to unintended consequences that disproportionately affected underfunded schools and marginalized students.

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Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) hold the potential to revolutionize accessibility by facilitating direct communication between the brain and devices. This offers individuals with severe physical disabilities new ways to engage with technology and their surroundings, allowing them to control prosthetics or communicate without talking. BCIs have opened new possibilities for assistive technology, expanding the definition of accessibility. They have ignited discussions about the necessity for ethical guidelines in neurotechnology and how society can facilitate the development of these innovations for all users, particularly those with severe disabilities. Since BCIs are still in the experimental phase, their cost, complexity, and accessibility hinder widespread adoption. Additionally, there are ethical concerns regarding privacy and the potential for misuse.

Funds were allocated to help schools transition to remote learning, including provisions for students with disabilities.
While the CARES Act did not change disability rights laws, it highlighted the need to protect vulnerable populations from discrimination during the pandemic.

82 Stat. 718 - An Act to insure that certain buildings financed with Federal funds are so designed and constructed as to be accessible to the physically handicapped

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Legacy of Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility

The Harlem Renaissance broke barriers, bringing African American voices to the forefront of American culture.
Promoted Diversity: Showcased the depth of Black experiences through literature, music, and art.
Fostered Inclusion: Opened doors for Black artists in mainstream venues like the Cotton Club and Apollo Theater.
Inspired Accessibility: Encouraged broader societal appreciation of African heritage, influencing civil rights and paving the way for greater representation in arts and culture.
This movement not only redefined African American identity but also laid the groundwork for future advances in equity and representation across industries.

A report by Judith E. Heumann and others on the lack of authentic disability representation in media, offering recommendations for funders to improve this issue.

Electric wheelchairs improve mobility and independence for those with challenges. They support accessibility policies like the ADA for equal access to public spaces. However:

High costs limit access for many who need them.
Transporting electric wheelchairs can also be difficult for users.
More ramps and accessible features are needed in public infrastructure for those who rely on electric wheelchairs.

Sir Ludwig Guttmann mural, Friars Square shopping centre, Aylesbury

Criticism

Critics argue that the emphasis on elite sports in the Paralympic Games can overshadow the needs of non-elite athletes, suggesting a greater focus on accessibility and inclusion in daily life.

An Enduring Legacy

Gandhi's principles of non-violence and social justice sparked global movements, notably in the sphere of disabled rights.
He championed equality and inclusion for all marginalized groups.
Despite his impact, critics claim his non-violence strategy occasionally fell short of instigating substantial change.

These criticisms highlight the complexity of his legacy in striving for social justice.

Learn more...

Quantum computing may eventually pave the way for advancements in AI and data analysis, improving assistive technologies and accessible services. However, its current impact on disability inclusion is quite limited.Quantum computing underscores the necessity of integrating accessibility into the development of emerging technologies from the outset. The present absence of accessibility features in quantum research has prompted conversations about ensuring future technologies are inclusive, rather than creating obstacles for individuals with disabilities.

Tip:

Interactivity is the key to capturing the interest and attention of your students. A genially is interactive because your group explores and interacts with it.

Explore more hearing aid history

Do you know when ‘hearing aids’ were invented?

Background

AIM, the American Indian Movement, began in 1968 in Minneapolis with 200 Native Americans addressing discrimination. They focused on unemployment, housing, and racism, advocated for treaty rights, and supported urban Indians. In 1971, they founded the Heart of the Earth Survival School and organized the Trail of Broken Treaties march in 1972, occupying the Bureau of Indian Affairs for reforms. The movement drew attention from the FBI and CIA, leading to efforts to suppress AIM. Tensions rose in February 1973 when AIM occupied Wounded Knee, protesting government corruption. A 71-day standoff with the FBI resulted in two deaths, twelve injuries, and twelve hundred arrests, highlighting American Indians' struggles. AIM leaders were acquitted in a Minnesota court after an eight-month trial.

Key Goals and Principles

Racial Justice: Address systemic racism in law enforcement, education, healthcare, and housing.
Police Reform: Advocate for accountability, defunding excessive police budgets, and reallocating resources to community programs.
Intersectionality: Highlight issues affecting marginalized groups within Black communities, including women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities.
Global Reach: Expand beyond the U.S. to address anti-Black racism and colonial legacies worldwide.

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Origins in Nuclear Development:

Initiated by Albert Einstein’s 1939 warning about nuclear chain reactions, the Manhattan Project led to the creation of the first atomic bomb during World War II.
Post-war, the Atomic Energy Act of 1946 established the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) to oversee nuclear weapons, reactors, and peaceful atomic energy applications, such as medical isotopes and power plants.

Ethical implications:

The discovery of atomic energy and its role in WWII has had farreaching impacts on society, from environmental sustainabilty concerns to terrorist threats.
Nuclear energy requires a balance between its potential to address urgent energy and environmental needs and the risks it poses to safety, equity, and future generations.
Decision-makers must prioritize transparency, fairness, and sustainable practices to address these ethical challenges.

However, the Act had limitations and faced implementation challenges, underscoring the need for ongoing advocacy for disability accessibility.

for disabled children

additional provisions

Ensured equal access to education for children with disabilities.
Required:

Free appropriate public education (FAPE)
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
One free meal per day for children with disabilities

Aimed to address the exclusion of 1 million disabled children from public schools.

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Key Developments in Disability Advocacy and Inclusion During the 1950s

The mid-20th century marked a significant period for various minority groups, particularly the disability community. As societal changes unfolded across the nation, new opportunities emerged. With the backing of other underrepresented groups, disability rights activists initiated reforms that profoundly transformed the nation.

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The movement...

led to increased pressure on businesses to create more respectful and diverse workplaces, and to implement policies to protect victims.
helped inform policy and legislation changes, such as the passing of anti-harassment bills and the abolishment of statutes of limitations for reporting sexual crimes
led to a societal shift that focuses on diversity, equality, and respect

Explore assistive technologies made with 3d printers

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of the web

Negative implications

Though not focused on disability rights, his work improved accessibility for people with disabilities and supported assistive technologies. However, the web has also led to misinformation, privacy issues, and cyberbullying, requiring further attention.

Many smartphone apps and operating systems still lack full accessibility, often not being compatible with screen readers. The smartphone revolution has highlighted the need for inclusive design, fostering a stronger advocacy for accessible technology in communication.

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The 19th Amendment promoted future inclusion and disability rights, inspiring equality movements:
Civil Rights Movement
Voting protections for disabled individuals in 1965.
ADA of 1990, ensuring access for the disabled

A report by Judith E. Heumann and others on the lack of authentic disability representation in media, offering recommendations for funders to improve this issue.

Promoting STEM

Rao is the author of two books, including a problem-solving guide for students and educator in STEM fields

AI for Good

Rao developed an AI service that fights against cyber bullying

Other implications:Broadened Federal grants for public assistance, maternal and child health, and welfare servicesLimited Secretary of Labor's authority on State unemployment insurance laws.

Malala: A Brief Timeline

2015

Authored the memoir I am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban

2014

Won the Nobel Peace Prize for advocacy of girl's right to education

2012

Victim of attempted assassination by Taliban

Despite a decline in Braille literacy, typewriters continue to be relevant across various fields today. The introduction of Braille typewriters highlighted the importance of accessibility in education. This need spurred innovations in assistive technologies, such as Braille keyboards and tactile tablets.

The Banks Pocket Braille Writer was a typewriter invented by Dr. Alfred Banks of San Diego, California, around 1928. Banks had lost his vision in World War I. In 1946, IBM agreed to support the production of a revised model for distribution at cost in both the U.S. and Great Britain by Lions Club International.

Key provisions...

It permits the Secretary of Homeland Security to adjust status for aliens who:

Entered the U.S. before 16 and have been present for five years;
Are of good moral character;
Are not deportable under immigration laws;
Have attended higher education or earned a diploma;
Have not faced exclusion or deportation after age 16;
Were under 35 at enactment. Aliens must apply for status adjustment within a year of graduation or diploma. Conditions for maintaining status are outlined.

Video artifact: watch a news broadcast from 1997 highlighting an early voice recognition software - Dragon Systems

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AI-driven innovations have enhanced communication, productivity, and independence for individuals with disabilities. For instance, AI-generated captions on videos assist those with hearing impairments, while AI-based predictive text improves writing speed and efficiency for individuals facing mobility challenges.
AI has broadened the discussion on accessible design by demonstrating how technology can actively cater to users' needs. It also encourages the tech industry to prioritize inclusive AI development, ensuring these tools are effective for everyone, including those with disabilities.

AI systems can occasionally exhibit bias or inaccuracies, especially when trained on datasets that do not capture the diverse needs of people with disabilities. Furthermore, there are significant concerns regarding data privacy, as many AI systems depend on personal information for optimal functionality.

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Consider this...

The enduring legacy of Gunnar Dybwad continues to inspire and influence many in the field of social work and advocacy for individuals with disabilities. However, his language, particulary usage of "mental retardation" should be considered outdated.

Promoting STEM

Rao is the author of two books, including a problem-solving guide for students and educator in STEM fields

AI for Good

Rao developed an AI service that fights against cyber bullying

The internet is a global network of interconnected computer networks that allows devices around the world to communicate with each other by exchanging data and information through a system of protocols, essentially acting as a vast communication system between computers and other electronic devices.

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Heumann nature: The life and legacy of disability rights activist Judy Heumann

While her work doesn't directly involve disability rights, her fight for equal education helps open doors for everyone, including people with disabilities. Critics argue her narrow focus on education neglects broader challenges concerning economic, political, and healthcare barriers affecting girls and women.

Limitations of the ADA:

Definition of Disability: Excludes some temporary or less severe impairments.
Enforcement: Relies on complaints or lawsuits, which can be costly and slow.
Small Business Exemptions: Employers with fewer than 15 employees are not covered under Title I.
Reasonable Accommodation: Limited to what is deemed "undue hardship."
Barrier Removal: Applies only when "readily achievable," delaying full accessibility.
Digital Accessibility: Lags in addressing modern tech like websites or apps.
Scope: Does not cover private residential properties.

Copelon, Rhonda (1982) "Reproductive and Sexual Freedom in the 1980s," Antioch Law Journal: Vol. 2 :Iss. 1 , Article 8

The civil liberties agenda which, until the last decade, was largely focused on first amendment issues, has grown substantially. This is because the movements of the last several decades-civil rights, black power, feminist, anti-war, Native American, lesbian and gay, anti-nuclear, and others-have broadened our understanding of the meaning of repression. In 1960, for example, there was only a hardy band of progressive civil libertarians working on the idea that a woman's right to contraception and abortion is fundamental to her liberty. Today that right exists and is under serious attack."

Welcome to Historical Milestones: Important discoveries in Disability, Society, Technology, and Policy. Here you will get a glimpse of major advancements in human civilization within the past century. If you wish to be guided through the slides with the audio narrator, just click on any paragraph or bulleted text (excluding titles) - and make sure you have activated the audio feature for the presentation. To navigate, click the arrows. Should the finger pointing symbol be present on a slide, meaning it will be indicated as a "button", it will have interactive clickable elements - feel free to engage with the elements, such as images that expand into new windows or take you to outside links.

Troubleshooting

How to get started

If a product cannot be made accessible, it must be designed to be compatible with adaptive equipment used by people with disabilities.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) enforces Section 255.
Individuals can file accessibility complaints with the FCC, but lawsuits are not permitted.

Promoting STEM

Rao is the author of two books, including a problem-solving guide for students and educator in STEM fields

AI for Good

Rao developed an AI service that fights against cyber bullying

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Pivotal Developments:

Operation Fair Share: Launched by the NAACP in 1981, this initiative aimed to increase employment opportunities and strengthen minority entrepreneurship. It sought to build partnerships with private-sector firms to encourage economic benefits for Black Americans.
In 1982, NAACP signed agreements with Edison Electric Institute and the American Gas Association, marking the beginning of collaborations to promote workplace diversity and minority business growth.

Legacy and impact: The NAACP's efforts during this period highlighted the importance of economic empowerment in achieving racial justice. Despite the political setbacks of the Reagan administration, grassroots and organizational initiatives worked to promote inclusion, diversity, and access to economic opportunities for marginalized communities.

Nevada’s Fourth Congressional District's Steven Horsford explains the significance of The Civil Rights Act of 1957

Listen: Making Gay History Podcast

When Jeanne Manford’s gay son was badly beaten at a protest in 1972, she took action and founded an organization for parents of gays known today as organization for parents of gays known today as PFLAG.

Gay and Proud (1970) - Vincenz, Lilli

A short documentary on the first Christopher Street Liberation Day March, held in New York City on June 28, 1970, to mark the first anniversary of the Stonewall Riots. Spanning fifty blocks with a few thousand participants, this historic march, along with others in Chicago, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, paved the way for the global Pride parades celebrated today.

Legacy in Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility

The LGBTQ+ Rights Movement of this era sparked a broader understanding of diversity and the importance of inclusion. By advocating for societal acceptance and dismantling systemic barriers, it laid the groundwork for creating more accessible and equitable communities. Its legacy continues to inspire movements for social justice and equality across the globe.

However, the Act had limitations and faced implementation challenges, underscoring the need for ongoing advocacy for disability accessibility.

Historical Milestone Timeline

Over 30 million people build interactive content in Genially.

FOOD AND NUTRITION

IAU@HLPF2019

SPRING IN THE FOREST 2

HUMAN RIGHTS

BLENDED PEDAGOGUE

VALENTINE'S DAY PRESENTATION

WOLF ACADEMY

Transcript

Milestones:

historical

Disability, Society, Technology & Policy

People

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Mahatma Gandhi

Louis Braille

Ed Roberts

Gunnar Dybwad

Info

Sir Ludwig Guttman

Hugh Gallagher

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Judith Heumann

Tim Berners-Lee

Jessica Cox

Malala Yousafzai

Sinéad Burke

Gitanjali Rao

Policy

19th Amendment (1920):

Social Security Act of 1935

Housing Act of 1949

Immgration & Nationality Act of 1965

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Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – 1990

Telecommunications Act of 1996

No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB)

Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA – 2008)

21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act (2010)

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (2021)

CARES Act

Social Movements

"VA Hospital Northampton MA 1924" by jeffwaypics is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

September 25, 1920

The Disabled Veterans Movement (1930s)

July 21, 1930:

July 23, 1930

July 1, 1931

Disability Rights Movement (1950s)

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Dreamers and Immigration Advocacy

#MeToo Movement

The Disability Justice Movement (2020s)

Technology

Electric Wheelchair (1920s and 30s)

Braille Typewriters

Jet Engine (1930s)

Hearing Aids

Polio Vaccine

Atomic Energy (1940s)

Assistive Technology

Cochlear Implant (1960-70s)

Arpanet

The Internet

Voice Recognition Software

Implications on Accessibility

Compact Discs (CDs)

Smart Phones

Brain-Computer Interfaces

Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence

More harm than good?

Legacy of Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility

Criticism

An Enduring Legacy

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Background

for disabled children

The 19th Amendment promoted future inclusion and disability rights, inspiring equality movements:
Civil Rights Movement
Voting protections for disabled individuals in 1965.
ADA of 1990, ensuring access for the disabled