Information Science and Technology Colloquium Provides Disability Awareness

Photo by Debbie McCallum/ 293
Waddell holds certificate of appreciation, given on behalf of the IS&T colloquia committee.

In observance of Disability Employment Awareness Month Cynthia Waddell, executive director of the International Center for Disability Resources on the Internet (ICDRI) was last Wednesday's, Information Science and Technology presenter. Waddell wrote the first accessible web design standard that was recognized as a best practice by the federal government and spoke on 'Section 508 Accessible Web: U.S. & International Impact.'

Waddell briefly reviewed the Americans With Disability Act (ADA), was executed to remove the barriers that would limit disabled individuals from exhibiting the skills and talents they possess by protecting their civil rights. In addition the ADA, to guarantees equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities in public accommodations, employment, transportation, state and local government services, and telecommunications.

Waddell brought attention to the increasing number of Americans with disabilities along with the fact that as technology advances and the need for content management increases so does web usage and accessibility shouldn't be hindered. "Those with disabilities should access the web as those who do not [have disabilities]." Waddell said. Waddell then presented some information on the amendments to the Rehabilitation Act, Section 508, which requires access to electronic and information technology provided by the Federal government. The law applies to all federal agencies when they develop, procure, maintain or use electronic and information technology. Federal agencies must ensure that this technology is accessible to employees and members of the public with disabilities to the extent it does not pose an "undue burden." Section 508 speaks to various means for disseminating information, including computers, software, and electronic office equipment. It applies to, but is not solely focused on, Federal pages on the Internet or the World Wide Web. It does not apply to web pages of private industry.

Born with bi-lateral hearing loss and as a member of the deaf/hard of hearing community, Waddell spoke of how she provides consulting services to government, university and commercial clients for compliance with disability rights laws including the federal Electronic and Information Technology Accessibility Standards (Section 508). Through her work as the former Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance Officer for the City of San Jose, CA, and through her appointments with federal and local agencies, she continues to serve as a tireless advocate for the entire community of people with disabilities.