In this episode of Above and Beyond the Accessibility and Inclusion podcast, hosts Anthony Frisina and Maddy Dever, The Autistic Rambler, discuss the countdown to the full implementation of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) by January 1, 2025. In looking towards Ontario after the deadline and the next phase of AODA, they emphasize the importance of accountability, realistic goal-setting, and the need for enforcement and incentives to achieve a barrier-free Ontario.

The conversation highlights the significance of lived experience in shaping effective solutions and addresses the pervasive issue of ableism as a barrier to progress. The hosts call for collective action and allyship to create a more inclusive future for individuals with disabilities.

Takeaways

• The countdown to AODA's full implementation is significant.
• Accountability is crucial for achieving accessibility goals.
• Setting realistic timelines is essential for progress.
• Enforcement mechanisms are needed to ensure compliance.
• Incentives can motivate businesses to improve accessibility.
• Lived experience provides valuable insights for solutions.
• Ableism is a major barrier to accessibility efforts.
• Collaboration is key to overcoming challenges.
• Disability rights should take precedence over heritage concerns.
• A barrier-free future benefits everyone.

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Chapters

00:00 - Countdown to Accessibility: A New Era Begins

01:41 - The Need for Accountability in Accessibility

03:19 - Setting Realistic Goals for Accessibility

04:43 - The Importance of Enforcement and Incentives

08:54 - Transforming Challenges into Opportunities

11:18 - Confronting Ableism and the Path Forward

#Accessibility, #AODA, #Inclusion, #Accountability, #Barrier-Free, #DisabilityRights, #LivedExperience, #Ableism, #Ontario, #LivedExpertise