Accessibility For Ontarians Act Misses Major Milestone & Steven Buys A Thing

2025-01-14

Today’s episode focuses in on the challenges and progress of accessibility in Ontario, particularly focusing on the Accessibility for Ontarians Act and its implications for blind Canadians. Steven and Shaun also discuss the importance of accessible technology, the role of legislation, and the need for companies to prioritize accessibility in their products. Listener Negative Julian also picks up on the potential impact of political changes in the USA on the pricing of assistive technology.However, o...

Today’s episode focuses in on the challenges and progress of accessibility in Ontario, particularly focusing on the Accessibility for Ontarians Act and its implications for blind Canadians.

Steven and Shaun also discuss the importance of accessible technology, the role of legislation, and the need for companies to prioritize accessibility in their products. Listener Negative Julian also picks up on the potential impact of political changes in the USA on the pricing of assistive technology.

However, our main discussion today brings up the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). The architect of the Act, former lawyer David Lepofsky, highlights the shortcomings in the implementation of the AODA, the barriers faced by those with disabilities in healthcare and education, and the need for stronger enforcement of accessibility standards. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of advocacy, leadership, and accountability in achieving accessibility goals, while introducing the Accessible Ontario Pledge as a new initiative to push for change. Listeners are encouraged to support accessibility advocacy efforts not just for the benefit of Ontarians, but for all Canadians and anyone who visits the province.

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Chapter Markers:
00:00 Intro
05:44 Steven Buys A Thing
23:14 Political Implications on Accessible Tech Pricing
28:13 Impact of Trump Tariffs and Inflation
29:38 Accessibility for Ontarians Act: A Broken Promise
35:54 The AODA Alliance's New Pledge
41:41 The Accessible Ontario Pledge
51:35 How to Support Accessibility Advocacy
54:01 Federal and Provincial Responsibilities

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