Disability News, Events, and Press Releases

Latest Disabled World Disability News, Events and Information

The Arc of California Defends Autism Community Against Misinformation

• This article from The Arc of California is a timely and authoritative response to recent public statements that mischaracterize autism and the lives of people with developmental disabilities. It challenges harmful rhetoric by highlighting the real achievements and contributions of individuals with autism, while underscoring the dangers of misinformation and... The Arc of California Defends Autism Community Against Misinformation

Updated Publications From Disabled World

• A list of the most recently updated publications, articles, peer reviewed papers, and helpful resources, from the Disabled World website - Updated Publications From Disabled World

How to Respectfully Interact with People with Cerebral Palsy

• This article, written from the firsthand perspective of Emily Cowen, who has athetoid quadriplegic cerebral palsy, offers a candid and insightful account of the social challenges faced by individuals with severe speech impediments. It is particularly useful for anyone seeking to better understand respectful interaction with people with disabilities, highlighting... How to Respectfully Interact with People with Cerebral Palsy

Explore Scenic U.S. Trails for All Ages and Abilities

• This article highlights the Florida National Scenic Trail, a 1,500-mile route showcasing diverse landscapes, from sand dunes to historic waterways, and emphasizes the accessibility of trails across the U.S. for people of all ages and abilities, including those with mobility challenges. It discusses the physical and mental health benefits of... Explore Scenic U.S. Trails for All Ages and Abilities

Hidden Gems of Washington, DC: Accessible History & Culture

• This article provides an insightful guide to Washington, DC's lesser-known historical sites, cultural landmarks, and accessible attractions, making it particularly useful for tourists seeking deeper, more meaningful experiences beyond the city's major monuments. It highlights locations such as the Walking Museum of Transportation, historic homes like Tudor Place and the... Hidden Gems of Washington, DC: Accessible History & Culture

Study Questions Eye Contact as Autism Marker, Suggests New Approaches

• This peer-reviewed study, published in the ECNU Review of Education, challenges the long-standing belief that reduced eye contact is a definitive marker of autism. Conducted by researchers at East China Normal University's Shanghai Institute of Artificial Intelligence for Education, the study utilized an AI-powered observation lab to analyze children's social... Study Questions Eye Contact as Autism Marker, Suggests New Approaches

Paris 2024 Paralympics Break Broadcast Records Globally

• This report highlights the unprecedented global broadcast reach of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, setting new records in viewership, online engagement, and media coverage. With over 12,941 hours of content broadcast across multiple platforms and a staggering 763.3 million hours of live coverage consumed, the event saw an 83% increase... Paris 2024 Paralympics Break Broadcast Records Globally

Garden Inspired Getaways: Where Nature Meets Luxury Travel

• This article explores unique gardens and resorts across the United States, highlighting their accessibility features, cultural significance, and culinary offerings. From the Japanese Garden in Portland to the sustainable farm at Pendry Natirar in New Jersey, these destinations provide inclusive experiences for travelers, including those with disabilities. The piece emphasizes... Garden Inspired Getaways: Where Nature Meets Luxury Travel

How to Change the Housing Market for People with Disabilities

• This article explores the severe lack of affordable, accessible housing for people with disabilities and proposes a fundamental shift in building regulations to address the issue. The author argues that rather than treating accessible housing as a costly special project, all new construction and renovations should be designed with disability-friendly... How to Change the Housing Market for People with Disabilities

Lights, Camera, Misrepresent! How Hollywood Can't Seem To Nail Disability Representation

• This article critically examines Hollywood’s ongoing struggle with accurate disability representation, highlighting the pervasive issue of "inspiration porn" and the harmful stereotypes it perpetuates. It discusses how films and TV shows often depict disabled characters as either tragic figures or extraordinary geniuses, reinforcing a narrow and unrealistic perspective. The article... Lights, Camera, Misrepresent! How Hollywood Can't Seem To Nail Disability Representation

Sochi 2014 Paralympian Nikolay Polukhin Stripped of Medals

• This report details the decision of the International Paralympic Committee's (IPC) Independent Anti-Doping Tribunal to uphold an anti-doping rule violation against Russian Para cross-country and biathlon athlete Nikolay Polukhin for sample swapping during the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Winter Games. Based on extensive forensic and scientific analysis, the tribunal confirmed that... Sochi 2014 Paralympian Nikolay Polukhin Stripped of Medals

The Power and Accessibility of Street Art in Public Spaces

• This article explores the evolution and impact of street art, an accessible and inclusive form of public expression that transforms urban spaces into open-air galleries. Tracing its roots from Depression-era public art initiatives and wartime graffiti to contemporary murals and installations, the piece highlights how street art has become a... The Power and Accessibility of Street Art in Public Spaces

The Florida Keys: Nature, History, and Island Charm

• This article offers a vibrant and engaging exploration of the Florida Keys, blending its natural wonders, historical landmarks, and quirky local charm. It highlights the region's diverse wildlife, from Key Deer to rehabilitated sea turtles, as well as accessible outdoor activities like snorkeling, birdwatching, and fishing. The piece is particularly... The Florida Keys: Nature, History, and Island Charm

New Orleans: Music, Marvelous Meals and Museums

• This article provides a captivating look at New Orleans beyond its famed jazz, nightlife, and Mardi Gras festivities, offering insight into the city's rich cultural and historical attractions. It highlights several museums that showcase the region's diverse heritage, from the Historic New Orleans Collection to the New Orleans Jazz Museum... New Orleans: Music, Marvelous Meals and Museums

The Pony Express: A Short-Lived but Lasting Legend

• This article provides a compelling historical account of the Pony Express, a short-lived yet legendary mail service that operated between 1860 and 1861. It highlights the role of the Hollenberg Station in Kansas, a rare surviving Pony Express station, and offers insight into the daily challenges faced by riders who... The Pony Express: A Short-Lived but Lasting Legend

VR Study Shows How Pain and Fear Disrupt Body Ownership Perception

• This peer-reviewed study, published in Frontiers in Psychology, explores how top-down interpretation - our prior experiences, expectations, and biases - affects body ownership in virtual reality. Conducted by researchers at Hiroshima University, the study used a full-body illusion (FBI) in VR to test whether imagining a virtual body in pain... VR Study Shows How Pain and Fear Disrupt Body Ownership Perception

SSA to Collect Old-Age, Survivors, Disability Insurance, and SSI Debts

• This report details the Social Security Administration's (SSA) immediate resumption of debt collection through the Treasury Offset Program (TOP) after a suspension since March 2020 due to COVID-19 economic challenges. The program, in place since 1992, allows the federal government to recover delinquent Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) and... SSA to Collect Old-Age, Survivors, Disability Insurance, and SSI Debts

Abilities Expo 2026 Accessibility Conferences

• The Abilities International Accessibility Conferences in 2026 represent a transformative opportunity for professionals, caregivers, and individuals connected to the disability sector. These events, held in Long Beach, New York, and Chicago, will provide a robust platform for education, networking, and innovation. Attendees can explore cutting-edge assistive technologies, participate in hands-on... Abilities Expo 2026 Accessibility Conferences

Virtual Reality Treatment for Speech Anxiety

• This research out of Cambridge presents a promising avenue for addressing speech anxiety through a newly developed virtual reality platform. The platform distinguishes itself by being open access and functional across various devices, enhancing its potential reach. A key innovation is the concept of "overexposure therapy," where users practice speaking... Virtual Reality Treatment for Speech Anxiety

Helping to Close the Hiring Gap for Autistic Job Seekers

• This research from VCU offers valuable insights into improving hiring practices for autistic job seekers, which is particularly useful considering the underemployment rates within this population. The study found that autistic candidates had a greater likelihood of being hired if they chose to disclose their diagnosis during an interview, but... Helping to Close the Hiring Gap for Autistic Job Seekers