Description:

Up to 1 in 4 adults in the United States have some type of disability, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, the far-reaching accessibility needs experienced by those with disabilities are often faced invisibly and quietly, everyday, and are often left out of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)-related conversations. We propose a session as part of the Sixth Symposium on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to chart the course on how accessibility concerns are being confronted and overcome in everyday life, and how allies can help overcome accessibility challenges, within the AMS and the broader atmospheric sciences community. This session will be hosted by the Accessibility Committee within the AMS Board on Representation, Accessibility, Inclusion, and Diversity and complements the World Through My Eyes webinar series hosted throughout the year to raise awareness and start discussion on accessibility needs across the AMS community. Our comprehensive discussion will highlight a variety of accessibility concerns, including, but not limited to, those related to vision, hearing, and mobility impairment; cognitive disabilities; neurodiversity; mental health conditions; and the intersectionality of multiple disabilities and minority identities. This discussion will not only cover needs faced by individuals with accessibility concerns and how these integrate into everyday life, but will also consider challenges faced by those around them (e.g., family and loved ones, caretakers, employers/employees, colleagues, etc.). This will be a panel discussion amongst invited panelists speaking on their personal experience with accessibility needs, as well as their expertise on related topics.