We’re back with another edition of our disability news roundup, highlighting the progress being made towards a more inclusive and accessible world for people with disabilities. This month, we have some inspiring stories to share- scroll through to find out more!

Photo from GBWR.

Fantastic News From Hollywood

James Martin, a talented actor with Down syndrome, made history as the first leading man with Down Syndrome in an Oscar-winning film. His film was named the Best Live Action Short at the 95th Academy Awards on 12 March. This is a major breakthrough in the entertainment industry and a significant step forward for disability representation on the big screen. Martin’s win is an inspiration to aspiring actors with disabilities and a reminder of the talent and contributions that people with disabilities can bring to the industry.

Image from Disney.

Disneyland’s Mickey’s Toontown Reveals New Design

We turn our attention to Disneyland’s Mickey’s Toontown, which has undergone a renovation to create a more accessible and inclusive play space for children with disabilities. The newly renovated park features wheelchair accessible ramps and pathways without any obstacles or barriers, interactive play areas with water tables at lower heights for children in wheelchairs and calming and decompressing areas for children on the autism spectrum. This is a fantastic example of how small changes and thoughtful design can make a big difference in creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all.

Image from QVC.

QVC launches comprehensive accessibility

QVC, a popular home shopping network, has launched a new category of products called “Accessible & Adaptive.” The category includes hundreds of items across various categories such as fashion, home, electronics, and beauty, making QVC one of the first retailers in the US to offer a comprehensive range of accessible products in one place. The company has created a digital storefront for these products with a user-friendly navigation system and filter options.

Image from judithheumann.com.

Disability community remembers Judy Heumann’s lasting contributions

We want to pay tribute to the legacy of disability rights activist Judy Heumann, who passed away earlier this month. Heumann was a pioneer in disability rights and advocacy, fighting tirelessly for equal access and opportunities for people with disabilities. She was instrumental in the development and implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which has transformed the lives of millions of people with disabilities in the United States. Heumann’s life and work serve as an inspiration and a reminder of the ongoing fight for disability rights and equality.

March has been a month of highs and lows for the disability community. While we have celebrated historic wins and progress in accessibility, we have also mourned the loss of one of our champions. However, these developments serve as reminders of the importance of continuing to fight for the rights and inclusion of disabled people everywhere. We hope that more positive steps will be taken in the future, to create a more inclusive world for all.