Celebrating Global Accessibility Awareness Day 2025
Global Accessibility Awareness Day is celebrated on 15 May.
Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) aims to keep the conversation going on digital access and inclusion for those who are affected by disabilities and impairments.
The GAAD Foundation was set up to centre accessibility when developing new technology, looking at the most common shortcomings of the current digital experience.
- Low contrast text
- Missing image alternative text
- Empty links and buttons
- Missing form input labels
- Missing document language
According to the GAAD website, there are nearly 1 billion people across the globe who are impacted by disabilities – either visual, hearing, motor or cognitive. It's important to address these and share our experience in a way that will help us build inclusive experiences and products and encourage equitable participation for everyone.
Dr Maria Holloway-Strong MIMMM wrote for IOM3 Member magazine, Materials World, on her experience being a parent to someone with autism and requiring adjustments. The article is available on the website below, and is a snapshot of obstacles presented, such as disability, masking and identity.
Our new core values at IOM3 are supportive and inclusive, and we live these out by investing in spaces and opportunities that can help our membership thrive. Our five member networks include Ably Different in Materials, Minerals & Mining (ADM3), where you can find support and community and help bring disability and access to the digital conversation.
ADM3 Vice Chair Animesh Anand MIMMM and ADM3 Secretary Dr Sarah Glanvill FIMMM last year discussed the importance of bringing disability conversations to the forefront. In the article, they say, ' It encourages problem-solving by considering the needs and experiences of people with disabilities. This can lead to the development of accessible and user-friendly technology.'
You can read the article below.
Find out more about Global Accessibility Awareness Day
Get in touch
If you're interested in getting involved or wish to raise any issues for the group to address, please contact us below.
