2006-2026

Disability Impact

May 2026

News and Events for Disability Inclusion Leaders in the National Capital Region and Beyond!

Global Accessibility Day

Thursday, May 21, 2026

Help us celebrate the 15th GLobal Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD)! The purpose of GAAD is to get everyone talking, thinking and learning about digital access and inclusion and the more than One Billion people with disabilities.

A Message about GAAD from DC Metro

Chief Accessibility Officer, Eduardo Meza-Etienne

GAAD 2026 One Small Change

Below are five high‑impact “One Small Change” GAAD Call‑to‑Action ideas designed to encourage each team (product, engineering, UX, content, ops, marketing, etc.) to commit to one concrete, achievable accessibility improvement—not a program, not a promise, just a clear action.

Each idea includes what to ask teams to do, why it matters, and how to operationalize it quickly.

1. The “One Fix, One Sprint” Commitment

Ask each team:

Identify and fix one specific accessibility issue in their current backlog or product within a single sprint.

Examples by team

• Engineering: Fix one missing form label or keyboard trap
• UX: Update color contrast on one component
• Content: Rewrite one page to use proper headings and plain language
• QA: Add one accessibility check to an existing test case

Why it works

• Tied to real work, not theoretical learning
• Time‑boxed and measurable
• Reinforces that accessibility is part of “normal delivery”

How to enable

• Provide a short list of “starter issues” (low effort, high impact)
• Offer a simple definition of done (e.g., “validated against WCAG 2.2 A”)

2. The “One Non‑Visual Test” Challenge

Ask each team:

Test one experience without relying on sight or a mouse—and document one finding.

Options

• Keyboard‑only navigation
• Screen reader spot check (5–10 minutes)
• Zoom to 200% and re‑check usability

Why it works

• Builds empathy fast
• Reveals issues teams didn’t know existed
• Requires no specialized expertise

How to enable

• Provide a 1‑page “How to Try It” guide
• Ask teams to share one observation, not a report

3. Make One Artifact Accessible

Ask each team:

Choose one artifact you already produce and ensure it meets accessibility basics.

Examples

• Design: One accessible Figma component (contrast, focus, labels)
• Docs / Ops: One fully accessible PDF or Word doc
• Marketing: One accessible email or campaign page
• Training: One captioned and structured slide deck

Why it works

• Fits naturally into existing workflows
• Scales well across non‑technical teams
• Produces reusable assets

How to enable

• Offer a short checklist per artifact type
• Highlight “before/after” examples during GAAD

4. Adopt One Accessibility Habit

Ask each team:

Add one small, repeatable accessibility habit to your team’s definition of done.

Examples

• “All new forms include visible labels”
• “Alt text required for new images”
• “Keyboard focus checked before PR approval”
• “Headings validated before publishing content”

Why it works

• Moves accessibility from one‑time action to sustained behavior
• Low friction, high long‑term payoff

How to enable

• Provide 5–6 pre‑approved habit options to choose from
• Ask teams to formally declare the habit they’re adopting

5. Public Pledge + Micro‑Recognition

Ask each team:

Publicly declare their “One Small Change” and complete it by a set date.

Why it works

• Social accountability increases follow‑through
• Creates visibility and momentum
• Encourages cross‑team learning

How to enable

• Simple submission form:
• Team name
• Chosen change
• Completion date
• Celebrate completions with:
• GAAD shout‑outs
• Internal badges
• Leadership recognition

How to Position the Message (Key Talking Point)

“Accessibility doesn’t always require big programs.

For GAAD, we’re asking every team to make one small, meaningful change—something you can complete, measure, and be proud of.”

Optional Add‑Ons (If You Want to Scale It)

• Create a GAAD One‑Pager with examples by role
• Track commitments vs. completions for leadership visibility
• Turn completed changes into a shared internal playbook

GAAD Celebrating 15 Years

Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) 2026 takes place on Thursday, May 21, 2026. Marking its 15th annual, this global event drives conversation and learning about digital access and inclusion for more than one billion people with disabilities. Events, including webinars like the UC GAAD 2026 event, focus on building inclusive tech.

Key 2026 Focus Areas & Events

• AI and Accessibility: The GiftAbled GAAD 2026 Conclave will feature an immersive "Future Reality Zone" AI and accessibility experience lab.
• 15th Anniversary Focus: The 2026 celebration highlights 15 years of promoting digital accessibility.
• Keynote Event: The official GAAD site features a keynote by Dr. Shanna Kattari on “At the Intersection of Access and Justice”.
• Virtual Events: Various companies and organizations, such as Deque, host free webinars to educate on digital accessibility.

Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) 

AbleToPlay

To celebrate Global Accessibility Awareness Day coming up on May 21st, WID is starting a month of conversation about digital access and inclusion by featuring AbleToPlay, an exciting, new, accessible gaming platform.

Each year, GAAD serves as a reminder to all that access to technology isn’t a luxury, it’s essential for being able to fully participate in today's world. AbleToPlay is a strong example of what universal design can look like within the gaming world. Developed by Good Trouble Games, the AbleToPlay platform introduces a more intuitive way for gamers with disabilities to find games that align with their individual needs, without the usual burdensome searching.

AbleToPlay prioritizes the user from the start. Using the platform, individuals can outline their accessibility requirements and personal preferences and they receive specific game recommendations that meet their needs. The result is a more efficient, transparent process that helps players spend less time searching and more time playing, but it doesn't end there! In addition to connecting the players with games that will work for them, the platform connects users with creators and content that also prioritize an inclusive gaming experience and create an inclusive community.

AbleToPlay fills the wide gap between disabled gamers, and the ease of finding games that meet their needs. Their mission not only supports the player, but sends an important message to the entire gaming and technology industry: accessibility must be built into the foundation, not added later. In the spirit of GAAD, AbleToPlay is a compelling example of how intentional design can open doors to connection, creativity, and authentic inclusion.

Find your perfect matches. Join thousands of gamers and discover games that fit your needs!!

Join the AbleToPlay Community

Your organization is invited to join WID in the month of GAAD activities by using our ready-made media toolkit. 

Download the AbleToPlay Media Toolkit

Disability:IN DC Metro Celebrates Two Decades of Impact

On May 5th, more than 50 disability business leaders, government partners, nonprofit organizations, and disability advocates gathered at K&L Gates for a high‑impact, in‑person evening event focused on building inclusive workplaces, strengthening talent pipelines, and driving culture change across our region.

To start us off, Lori Daly gave a beautiful rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. Following a welcome by The Hon. Katherine McCary, CEO and Craig Leen, K&L Gates, we were honored to hear from Assistant Secretary Julie Hocker, Office of Disability Employment Policy, WID CEO Marcie Roth, and NOD President and CEO Beth Sirull. Our Leadership Panel comprised of Ryan Walters, Immediate past chair, Meghan Cadigan, Incoming Chair, Carolyn Jeppsen, CEO BroadFutures and Youth Lead, Lori Daly, acting DOBE lead, Eduardo Meza-Etienne, Chief Accessibility Officer shared their perspectives on both our past and our future, with surprise panelist Lou Orlsene, from the Job Accommodation Network. Kia SIlver-Hodge moderated this high level discussion.

Thank You to Our Keynotes!

Thank You!!

K&L Gates ---Host and Reception Supporter

Ron Drach--- Impact Supporter

PDFix--- Scholarship Supporter

&

Honoring



Cynthia Richardson-Crooks, Founding Chair

Ellen de Bremond, Founding Treasurer

Congratulations to our 2026 OFFICERS

Disability:IN DC Metro is pleased to announce the election of its officers for the 2026-2027 term. During the annual meeting held on May 5th, the following individuals were elected to lead the organization:

·     Meghan Cadigan, KPMG – Chair

·     Jennifer Gauvreau, CGI Federal – Vice-Chair

·     Tashi Carper, Leidos – Secretary

·     Sue Morgan, General Dynamics IT – Treasurer

The organization also recognizes its leadership team, including Eduardo Meza Etienne, Chief Accessibility Officer; Andrea Hall (GDMS), Chief Strategy Officer; and The Hon. Katherine McCary, CEO.

Disability:IN DC Metro is committed to advancing disability inclusion and accessibility across the region. The newly elected officers and leadership team will continue to drive impactful initiatives, foster collaborative partnerships, and support the professional growth of individuals with disabilities.

New Disability:IN DC Metro Website Address

Disability:IN DC Metro has a new website address. Please visit https://disabilityindcmetro.org/ to learn more about our work, upcoming events, membership opportunities, and resources supporting disability inclusion across the DC Metro business community. Please update your bookmarks and share the new link with your networks.

Disability:IN DC Metro Announces New Strategic Partnerships

Partnerships among individuals with disabilities, their communities, and organizations are vital to advancing meaningful inclusion and accessibility. By fostering collaboration, these groups can leverage diverse perspectives, share resources, and build networks of support that empower people with disabilities to participate fully in all aspects of society. Such alliances not only drive systemic change but also create opportunities for advocacy, innovation, and mutual growth, ensuring that the needs and voices of the disability community are recognized and valued.

Partnership with National Organization on Disability (NOD)

Disability:IN DC Metro is proud to strengthen our long-standing partnership with the National Organization on Disability. As we celebrate 20 years of impact in disability inclusion, we are honored to serve as a distribution partner for NOD’s new learning platform, Enable Learning. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to expanding practical education, advancing workplace disability inclusion, and supporting employers across the DC Metro region with resources to build more inclusive organizations.

Partnership with M-Enabling Summit & G3ict

Disability:IN DC Metro is proud to be a Supporting Sponsor partner with G3ict again in 2026 in support of the upcoming M-Enabling Summit, a leading global event focused on digital inclusion, accessibility, and assistive technology. Through this collaboration, Disability:IN DC Metro members are eligible to receive a 10% discount on registration fees. We encourage our members to take part in this important gathering of leaders, innovators, advocates, and organizations working to advance accessible technology and disability inclusion across sectors.

If you are a member or are interested in becoming one contact Katherine McCary for the registration discount.

The 2026 M-Enabling Summit will be held from October 5–7, 2026, at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia, focusing on "Accessibility at the Core of Digital Transformation". This premier global conference brings together industry leaders to advance digital accessibility, AI, and inclusive technology.

Key 2026 M-Enabling Summit Details

• Theme: Accessibility at the Core of Digital Transformation.
• Location: Crystal Gateway Marriott, Arlington, Virginia.
• Date: October 5–7, 2026.
• Registration: Early bird rates are available for attendees via the official M-Enabling Summit website.

Disability IN 2026 Global Conference

The Future of Business Is Being Built.

The builders, investors, and leaders shaping the future of business are building solutions that work better for more people. Are You IN?

Conference Registration

Conference Agenda

Events in the May Newsletter

WMILG/BILG Session: Integrating Disability Inclusion to Build a Culture of Belonging - May 14 Hybrid (In person and virtual)

NOD AI for Accessibility: Inclusive Tech in Action - May 21

BroadFutures Strategic Plan presentation May 27

Disability:IN Chicagoland presents Disability ERG/BRG Leadership within the Current Landscape - June 3

Ability.Jobs Career Fair Dates: 6/25, 8/20, 10/22, 12/10

VA Voice Guide and Stride, June 13, Richmond, VA

Omnium Circus at Wolftrap Theatre in the Woods July 15-16

Disability:IN Global Conference July 27-30

Gallaudet University Fall Career Fair - September 24

Baltimore and Washington Metro ILG Joint Chapter Event

Integrating Disability Inclusion to Build a Culture of Belonging

Thursday, May 14, from 9:00 – 11:30 AM EDT



Registration for BILG WMILG

Baltimore and Washington Metro ILG Joint Chapter Event

Integrating Disability Inclusion to Build a Culture of Belonging

Lerch, Early & Brewer,

7600 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 700, Bethesda, MD 20814

We’re pleased to invite you to a special joint Chapter meeting bringing together the Baltimore and Washington Metro ILGs, an exciting opportunity to connect across our groups and share ideas. We hope you can join us, either in person or virtually, for a morning of engaging discussion.

Our program will feature two dynamic sessions. The Hon. Katherine McCary, CEO of Disability: IN DC Metro, will explore how organizations can meaningfully integrate disability inclusion into their workplace strategies to foster a true culture of belonging. Katherine's session will offer practical insights on embedding inclusive practices that go beyond compliance and create lasting impact.

We will also hear from Josh Roffman, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Roffman Horvitz, PLC, who will provide an update on the Administration’s recent anti-DEI enforcement initiatives. Josh will share perspectives on the evolving legal landscape and what these developments may mean for employers in a shifting regulatory environment.

Meeting Details

Agenda

9:00 – 9:30 AM – Networking (in-person meeting only)

9:30 – 9:45 AM – Welcome & Chapter Business (Zoom session begins)

9:45 – 10:30 AM – Feature Session: The Hon. Katherine McCary

10:30 – 11:15 AM – Feature Session: Josh Roffman

11:15 – 11:30 AM – EEOC Update

In-Person Attendance

Directions and event parking details: https://www.lerchearly.com/contact/directions/

Virtual Attendance

Please join using the Zoom link. The virtual session begins at 9:30 AM; if you log in earlier, you may be placed in a waiting room until the meeting starts.

We hope you’ll take advantage of this unique joint meeting and join us for an engaging and informative program!

AI for Accessibility: Inclusive Tech in Action

National Organization on Disability

May 21, 2026

1:00-2:00 pm EST

Register for AI webinar

Explore how artificial intelligence can enhance accessibility and empower diverse communities. This session will examine how AI is reshaping digital experiences, from hiring systems to workplace tools, and what it takes to implement these technologies responsibly.

Attendees will gain practical strategies, real-world insights, and a deeper understanding of how to design and deploy AI systems that are inclusive, equitable, and human-centered.

MODERATOR:

Sara Walsh | Chief Operations & Finance Officer

PANELISTS:

• Winston Ben Clements | Keynote Speaker & Disability Advocate

• Ariana Aboulafia | Project Lead, Disability Rights in Technology Policy, CDT

SESSION FOCUS WILL EXPLORE:

• How AI is currently shaping accessibility specifically across digital products and workplaces
• The risks and opportunities of AI for people with disabilities, including bias in algorithmic decision-making
• The role of lived experience in designing inclusive technologies
• Practical strategies for implementing accessible and equitable AI solutions
• How organizations can align innovation with ethics, policy, and disability rights

Shaping Our Future

Wednesday, May 27, 2026

 5:00 PM ET

 Virtual Presentation

Register for the BroadFutures Event Here

Over the past year, BroadFutures has engaged staff, board members, stakeholders, and community voices in developing our 2026–2028 Strategic Plan. We are excited to share that vision with you.

Join us on Wednesday, May 27 at 5:00 PM ET for a live virtual presentation exploring our goals for the next three years and how we plan to expand access, strengthen impact, and build long-term sustainability for our organization and community.

Presented by:

• Carolyn Jeppsen, CEO/President/Co-Founder
• Marc Cloutier, Strategic Planning Task Force Chair
• Vicky Geis, Board Chair

 Disability E/BRG Leadership Within the Current Landscape

June 3rd

 Facilitated discussion

12:00 Eastern

Disability:IN DC Metro Members REGISTER HERE using the promo code: DIChicagoland for this 'members only' online program.  

You are invited to join Disability:IN Chicagoland, and its partner inQUEST Consulting, for Disability E/BRG Leadership Within the Current Landscape. In the last 18 months many disability inclusion leaders have faced additional challenges when driving workplace inclusion through Employee/Business Resource Group (E/BRG) engagement. Changing perceptions of E/BRG value have increased scrutiny of activities and diminished funding, leaving disability E/BRG leaders to shift their focus from managing a complicated external environment to justifying their work internally. Come with your questions and challenges to a cohort of peers during this hour-long virtual conversation. inQUEST Consulting, Sr. Partner, Pari Karim will guide the conversation in this highly interactive workshop addressing topics like:

• Focusing E/BRG priorities in the context of the current landscape;
• Navigating new E/BRG engagement frameworks; and
• Relationship building among E/BRG leaders for ongoing support and collaboration.

Show Your Support for Virginia Voice

June 13, 2026

Collegiate School

103 N Mooreland Rd, Richmond, VA 23229

Buy a Ticket for Guide & Stride

or Call Virginia Voice at 804.266.2477 to sign up. Questions? Email kdriggs@virginiavoice.org

A Nonprofit Organization Providing Audio Access

We provide audio access to current newspapers and magazines and live audio description for the performing arts to individuals who are blind, low vision, or have other disabilities that prevent them from accessing print material and the visual aspects of the arts and cultural events.

Our services are free of charge.

Call (804) 266-2477 today to “See the World Through Sound.”

Wake up, lace up, and join Virginia Voice for a morning of fun, fresh air, and fitness! This Choose-Your-Distance Walk/Run/Roll/Stroll is an inclusive, accessible, family-friendly event celebrating our diverse community and empowering individuals of all abilities to get outside and exercise. All fitness levels welcome.

Sign up to walk/run/roll/stroll. Be a volunteer, sponsor, or vendor.

• Check-in opens at 8:00 am on June 13th; Walk/Run/Roll starts at 9:00 am; end by 12:00 noon
• Sliding scale, $10 suggested donation per participant
• Vendor and Sponsor opportunities available, more information below
• Rain or shine (indoor venue available on the campus)

START A FUNDRAISING TEAM

Do you love Virginia Voice and want to make your impact go even further? This year, create your own Guide & Stride Fundraising Team! Invite friends, coworkers, neighbors, and family members to help raise funds to keep Virginia Voice’s essential services free for the 13,000 Virginians with blindness and other disabilities who depend on them.

Omnium Circus is brightening the DMV this summer at Wolftrap Theatre in the Woods

Join us on July 15th @ 10:30 am and July 16th at 10:30 am

Gates open at 10 am

Set against the natural beauty of the forest, Omnium Circus brings our signature blend of award-winning artistry, memorable music, and joyful humor to a one-of-a-kind 60 minute outdoor experience! In their limit-defying and life-affirmming spectacle, I'm Possible, the circus cast of multi-abled artists inspire and entertain audiences with genuinely "extraordinary" (The new York Times) feats that highlight the astounding potential mof the human spirit.

Omnium Circus' unique mix

Reserve your seat here!

Tickets only $12 (incl. fees) Free Under 2

Suggested ages 2-12

Discounts available for groups of 10+

Career Fairs

Connecting Talent with Disabilities and Employers

Unlock the Power of disABILITY Talent

Job Fair Dates:

June 25, 2026

August 20, October 22, December 12

Register for direct engagement

Contact Lori Daly  for more information

Since 1995, abilityJOBS.com.com has been the leading resource for employers seeking to hire skilled professionals with disabilities.

abilityJOBS.com has an easy-to-use job board with AI-enhanced job postings and an extensive resume bank, providing year-round career listings and ads, as well as access to a nationwide pool of professionals across all industries.

The ABILITYJobFair.org is an accessible online job fair, bringing recruiters and job seekers with disABILITIES together in a human-centered experience. AJF uses face-to-face video, text chat, real-time captions and American Sign Language interpreters to allow for the most human in-person experience possible without the need to travel.

The Office for Career Success is excited to invite you to Gallaudet University’s Fall 2026 Internship and Job Fair!

Gallaudet University’s Fall 2026 Internship and Job Fair

Date: Thursday, September 24, 2026

Time: 10:00AM - 2:30PM

Location: Multi-Purpose Room in the Student Academic Building (SAC)

Registration: Now open on Handshake. If your organization doesn’t have a Handshake account, please create one first before registering for the event.

The early bird registration fee is available for registrations completed from now until May 22, 2026.

For Schools and Non-Profit organizations the early bird rate is $200. For For-Profit & Government Entities, the early bird rate is $250. Finally for Deaf-Owned Small Businesses and Start-Ups, the early bird fee is $100. From May 23, 2026 - September 10, 2026 the registration fee increases per group by $50. This registration fee includes two representatives and a light lunch. Employers may bring up to four representatives in total; additional representatives may be added for $25 each. Virtual interpreters are available at request for an additional cost.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with Gallaudet’s exceptional students and alumni.

Register today to secure your spot, and contact us with any questions. We look forward to seeing you at the fair!

Are You in Healthcare?

Do You Assist People with Non-Apparent Disabilities?

Accessible Healthcare should be available to everyone and from every provider.

If you work in or around healthcare, or know someone who does, or you have a healthcare provider. We have created courses that could be important to you.

These 4 courses are available FREE for a limited time! Click the link below for each course and take advantage of this opportunity before June 30, 2026.

Course 1 - Foundations of Disability Inclusion in Healthcare Settings

Course 2 - Providing Effective Communication in Healthcare Settings

Course 3 - Ableism and Bias in Healthcare Settings

Course 4 - Environmental Solutions for Inclusion and Accessibility

Who should take them?

These trainings are ideal for healthcare providers, support staff, administrators, and healthcare leaders who want to enhance patient experience and ensure equitable access to care. 

For more information, or to arrange for your staff to fill requirements through these courses, please reach out to resilience@wid.org.

Disability:IN DC Metro



Promoting Inclusion

Expanding Disability Education and Awareness

Our focus is on Culture Change!

Learn More about DisabilityIN DC Metro

Twice honored as Disability:IN Affiliate of the Year

 Led by The Hon. Katherine McCary

Founding Chair of Disability:IN National and

CEO, Executive Director of Disability:IN DC Metro

The Voice of the Disability Community

• Join our First Annual Disability Inclusion Roundtable .
• Quarterly Member Meetings with Guest Speakers

Accessibility

Digital and AI implications for our community.

• Upcoming Seminar Presentations by Chief Accessibility Officer Eduardo Meza Etienne, with featured subject matter expert speakers.
• Meet with us at the 2026 M-Enabling Summit!

Physical Access for employees, visitors and customers.

• Featuring C5 Consulting, LLC and United Spinal Association Accessibility Services work with DC Metro

Disability Owned Businesses

• D2D Quarterly Informal Virtual Networking Event
• Partnering with OurAbility making connections for business outcomes

Expanding our Disability Organization Relationships

• BroadFutures, Melwood, NOD, AAPD, G3ict, Disability Belongs

Disability:IN DC Metro (DC Metro) is an employer-led membership-based business association that creates business to business connections, dialogue, and learning within our geographic region of Washington, DC, Virginia, and Maryland, an area known as the National Capital Region. Our offerings, however, are not limited to geographic location.

Our Vision

“Cultivate workforces and workplaces where talent with disabilities are recruited, included, promoted, retained and valued as both internal talent and innovative vendors.”

Follow Us on LinkedIN and YouTube