The Politics Of Accessibility

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven Scott speaks with Brian DeConinck about the intersection of accessibility and politics. Brian, a contractor for the U.S. government, recently wrote an article titled The Politics of Accessibility, exploring how accessibility is often overlooked within diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. “A lot of people are forgetting there’s an A in there as well,” Brian explains, emphasizing that accessibility should be recognized as a core part of inclusion efforts.

The conversation highlights the political influences on accessibility, particularly in government policy and regulation. Brian points out that many assume accessibility is non-political, but history tells a different story. “There’s a very easy-to-draw line between the disability rights activism of the 1960s and the work I do today,” he says. Regulations like the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Section 508 have played a crucial role in advancing accessibility, but there is growing concern that political shifts could threaten these gains.

Brian also discusses how early web pioneers were deeply engaged in accessibility from the start. “Within the first five years of the web existing, accessibility was already part of the conversation,” he explains, citing figures like Greg Vander Heiden and Wendy Chisholm, who worked on making digital content more inclusive. However, despite decades of progress, accessibility still struggles for recognition in mainstream tech development.

The interview also addresses the role of social media in modern advocacy. Brian is cautiously optimistic, suggesting that while regulation is essential, “we now have this other magical thing—the ability to call out inaccessibility instantly and demand change.” He also highlights the ongoing challenges of educating developers about accessibility, stating that “the information exists, but it’s not always in the right places.” Ensuring that accessibility is taught at the early stages of coding and design education remains a key issue.

For those interested in reading Brian’s article, visit briandeconinck.com. The conversation offers a compelling look at how accessibility, technology, and politics are intertwined, making it an essential listen for those passionate about digital inclusion.