Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) is an opportunity to reflect on the progress we’ve made toward digital inclusion, and recognize the work that still lies ahead. If you’re reading this on accessiBe’s website, you’re likely already taking steps to make your site more accessible. GAAD is the perfect time to acknowledge that commitment and to reaffirm why it matters.
It all started with a blog post
In 2011, technology entrepreneur and web accessibility advocate Joe Devon wrote a blog post titled “CHALLENGE: Accessibility know-how needs to go mainstream with developers. NOW”. In the piece, he called for a global movement to raise awareness about digital accessibility.
These words sparked the idea for a Global Accessibility Awareness Day, a day dedicated to digital accessibility and inclusion. Jennison Asuncion, Accessibility Lead at LinkedIn, retweeted Joe’s post, and thus, a grassroots movement was born.
GAAD is now celebrating its 14th year, and its purpose is simple: get everyone talking, thinking, and learning about digital access and inclusion to raise awareness for the more than one billion people living with disabilities worldwide.
Why businesses should participate in GAAD
While complying with accessibility legislation mitigates your legal risk, web accessibility is about more than checking a box. It’s about creating a digital space that everyone can use. Plus, it’s just good for business.
GAAD gives your organization an opportunity to showcase the progress you’ve made, share your commitment publicly, and deepen your connection with customers, employees, and the wider community.
Here’s why getting involved with GAAD is a smart business move:
- Highlight your commitment to web accessibility: You’ve already dedicated time, resources, and effort into improving accessibility. GAAD is your chance to share your progress with the world and reaffirm your commitment to a better, more inclusive digital experience.
- Strengthen your brand: Customers increasingly support businesses that reflect their values. By participating in GAAD, you position your business as forward-thinking, responsible, and aware of the needs of all users.
- Engage your customers and community: Use GAAD to raise awareness, start conversations, and share educational content with your followers. This is your chance to demonstrate that accessibility isn’t just something you do; it’s at the core of your business ethos. One click at a time.
How to share your accessibility journey
Celebrating GAAD doesn’t have to be complicated. Even small actions can make a big impact. Here are some easy ways your business can get involved:
- Tell your story: Let your customers know about the improvements you’ve made to your website to show accessibility is an important part of your business.
Pro tip: include the accessibility champions at your company, or even the loyal customers with disabilities who keep coming back. - Post on social media: Download this exclusive, customizable social media kit and share it with your followers. Follow the steps on this page: accessibe.com/GAAD
- Host or attend an event: You can host an internal conversation, or join accessiBe’s webinar on stunning, accessible design.
- Educate yourself: Check out these new educational resources that you can download today to further your accessibility journey and give your organization a boost.
Let’s make the digital world work better for everyone—one click at a time.
