Disability Pride Month is a time of celebration, advocacy, and awareness for individuals with disabilities, including those with low vision. This month-long observance provides an opportunity to recognize the achievements and contributions of people with disabilities, while also highlighting the importance of creating a more inclusive and accessible society. For those with low vision, this month serves as a platform to raise awareness about their unique challenges and the resources available to support them in leading independent and fulfilling lives.
Understanding Low Vision
Low vision is a visual impairment that cannot be fully corrected by eyeglasses, contact lenses, surgery, or medication. It encompasses a spectrum of visual impairments, ranging from partial sight to near-total blindness. Individuals with low vision face various challenges in their daily lives, but with the right support and accessibility measures, they can achieve their goals and thrive.
The History of Disability Pride Month
Disability Pride Month, observed in July, has a rich history rooted in the disability rights movement. Disability Pride Month began in 1990—the same year the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) was signed into law. Since then, Disability Pride festivals and parades have been hosted throughout the nation. This movement aims to challenge stigmas and misconceptions surrounding disabilities, promote self-acceptance, and advocate for equal rights and opportunities. By understanding the history of this month, we can better appreciate the significance of its celebrations and continue to work towards a more inclusive society for all.
Breaking Barriers: Enhancing Inclusivity for Individuals with Low Vision
Inclusivity and accessibility are fundamental principles in building a society that values diversity and empowers everyone to participate fully. For individuals with low vision, breaking barriers means creating an environment that accommodates their needs and ensures they can access information, services, and opportunities without limitations.
Web Accessibility & Content Accessibility Guidelines
Web accessibility is a critical aspect of making online content usable for individuals with low vision. Implementing Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) ensures that websites and digital content are perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for all users, including those with visual impairments.
Inclusive Design Principles
Inclusive design is about considering the diverse needs of all users during the design process. By adopting inclusive design principles, organizations can create products, services, and spaces that are accessible to individuals with low vision and other disabilities, benefiting society as a whole.
Assistive Technologies
Assistive technologies play a vital role in enhancing the independence and quality of life for people with low vision. From screen readers and magnifiers to Braille displays and voice-activated assistants, these tools empower individuals to navigate the digital world and engage with their surroundings effectively.
Promoting Disability Pride Month and Low Vision Awareness
Raising awareness about Disability Pride Month and low vision is crucial to fostering a more inclusive society. By utilizing various promotional strategies, we can ensure that these vital topics reach a broader audience, encouraging support and understanding.
Social Media Campaigns
Social media platforms offer a powerful means to share stories, advocate for disability rights, and promote events related to Disability Pride Month and low vision awareness. Engaging content can capture the attention of diverse audiences and encourage meaningful conversations.
Collaborations and Partnerships
Collaborating with other organizations, influencers, and advocates can amplify the message of Disability Pride Month and low vision awareness. By uniting efforts, we can create a more significant impact and reach communities that might not have been reached otherwise. Get involved with Disability Pride Month in Western New York by joining Western New York Independent Living, People Inc., Aille Design, The Arc Erie County, VIA: Visually Impaired Advancement, and many more at Disability Pride Festival on Wednesday, July 26 from 1 to 4:30 pm.
Beyond Disability Pride Month: Sustaining Inclusivity and Accessibility Efforts
While Disability Pride Month is an essential time for advocacy, the work towards visually impaired inclusivity and accessibility should continue beyond the month-long celebration. Implementing sustainable strategies and fostering a culture of accessibility are crucial steps towards lasting change.
Long-Term Strategies for Maintaining Inclusivity
Developing long-term plans ensures that accessibility efforts persist beyond temporary initiatives. These strategies may include regular audits, feedback mechanisms, and continuous improvement processes.
Integrating Accessibility into Organizational Culture and Practices
Inclusive organizations prioritize accessibility at all levels, from leadership to day-to-day operations. By fostering a culture that values diversity and inclusivity, organizations can empower individuals with low vision and other disabilities to participate fully.
Ongoing Education and Training for Employees and Stakeholders
Education is a powerful tool for creating understanding and empathy. By providing training to employees and stakeholders, organizations can cultivate a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with low vision.
Shining a Light: VIA’s Celebration of Individuals with Low Vision
VIA of Western New York (WNY) is an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with low vision and visual impairments. Through our comprehensive services and programs, we celebrate the resilience and potential of those we serve.
Low Vision Clinic for WNY
VIA’s Low Vision Clinic in Buffalo, NY, offers specialized evaluations to assess and address the unique needs of individuals with low vision. Our certified low vision specialist (optometrist) work closely with clients to develop personalized rehabilitation plans. We provide vocational counseling, training, and employment services for New Yorkers who are visually impaired or legally blind and are seeking to enter the workforce.
Vision Rehab Services in Buffalo, NY
VIA’s Vision Rehabilitation Services focus on restoring independence and confidence in individuals with low vision. Our experts provide training in adaptive techniques and tools to navigate daily life successfully.
Workforce Development Program for the Visually Impaired
VIA’s Workforce Development Program equips individuals with low vision with essential skills and training to pursue meaningful employment opportunities, empowering them to lead self-sufficient lives. Our staff is composed of Employment Specialists who work to better prepare individuals with vision loss for job placement. Topics include:
- Job Retention
- Career Exploration
- Work Skills Development
- Job Placement Services
- Tips for the Workplace
Additionally, our Work Experience Training (WET) program offers individuals the opportunity to develop skills in a real-life employment setting that benefits both employees and employers. The goal is to help prepare people for obtaining and retaining employment – and help employers develop an accessible workforce team while boosting productivity.
Ways to Give to the Visually Impaired Community
For those passionate about supporting individuals with low vision and promoting visually impaired inclusivity, VIA offers various ways to contribute to their mission of enhancing independence and quality of life.
4 Ways You Can Get Involved & Give Back with VIA of WNY
Discover four meaningful ways to support VIA’s mission and make a positive impact on the visually impaired community:
- Donate – Give a one-time donation or set up a recurring donation to support programs and services that empower people of all ages to reach their highest level of independence.
- Facebook Birthday Fundraiser – Use Facebook to dedicate your birthday and raise money for VIA: Visually Impaired Advancement.
- Wall of Reflection – Show your support of VIA with a custom-designed and personalized metallic tile, which will become part of the interior design of the lobby at our Main Street location. You can even have a tile created to honor or memorialize a loved one.
- Donor Designation with United Way – A portion of your paycheck, deducted through your employment, will be channeled directly to VIA as part of the United Way Annual Campaign.
VIA’s Annual Events to Give Back to the Visually Impaired Community
VIA hosts annual events that bring together the community and raise funds to support our vital services.
Contact VIA of WNY Today for Inclusive Low Vision Services
Disability Pride Month serves as a powerful reminder to celebrate the diversity and resilience of individuals with low vision. By promoting visually impaired inclusivity and accessibility throughout the year, we can create a society that embraces and empowers everyone, regardless of their abilities. Let us continue working together to build a world where everyone can participate fully and realize their dreams, irrespective of their visual capabilities.
If you or someone you know is living with low vision, reach out to VIA for comprehensive, compassionate, and inclusive support. We have two clinic locations in the WNY area:
Main Campus (Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday)
1170 Main Street
Buffalo, NY 14209
Northtowns (Open Wednesday)
1491 Sheridan Drive, Suite 600
Tonawanda, NY 14217
Clinic hours are Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. To make an appointment at one of our locations, call VIA at (716) 888-4556.