iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Max L. Brault

@knowaccessibility.bsky.social

37 followers 53 following 49 posts

Max L. Brault, Lead Accessibility Consulting I have abundance of information, insight and contacts in the sphere of Accessibility consulting and lived experience that I would like share.

Posts Replies Media

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 09/04/2025

Mark Raymond Jr., puts it plainly: "With DEI programs facing cuts, disability inclusion is at risk of being deprioritized, which could set back years of progress. Businesses must recognize that disability inclusion enriches the workplace by bringing diverse perspectives that drive innovation."

Beyond DEI: Ensuring Inclusion For Disabled People Amidst Uncertainty

As DEI programs are cut, the future of accessibility and inclusion for disabled and neurodivergent individuals falls on business leaders, advocates, and employees alike.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 08/04/2025

There is always a careful balance when dealing with Human Resources (HR) departments. It’s important to remember that HR's primary responsibility is to protect the company. Employees should keep this in mind every time they interact with their HR department. Interesting insight!

Is HR Really on Your Side? A Look at Disability Advocacy in the Workplace

In an ideal world, Human Resources (HR) departments are pillars of support, advocating for fairness, inclusivity, and a safe working environment for all employees. When it comes to supporting…

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 02/04/2025

The number one question I get from new clients is: "How much does accessibility cost? This ROI question will always exist and, to some degree, needs to remain top of mind for everyone working in this space. I appreciate how this article frames the situation.

The Accessibility Cost Debate: Why We’re Asking the Wrong Question

I have a graphic image of half a dozen individuals, one of whom is in a manual wheelchair, reviewing statistics and graphs on a TV monitor.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 01/04/2025

The truth of a recent National Geographic article on the topic. That’s why I always recommend taking the time to research what services, tools, and apps are out there to help make your next trip as smooth as possible. A little planning can go a long way.

Is travel about to get better for people with disabilities?

a picture of a woman in a manual wheelchair on an outcropping of rocks, looking at the greenery and lake below her.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 28/03/2025

Stylist is spotlighting beauty brands that are finally making packaging more inclusive. That’s a win. But let’s be real—despite progress, the beauty industry still has a long way to go. Too many consumers with disabilities are still being overlooked.

The beauty brands that are paving the way for accessible packaging

A picture with a dozen beauty brands.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 26/03/2025

Scientists from many different cultures have contributed to developing new and interesting theories that have become today's standards. In the long run, diversity-washing will only hinder global progress. You never know where—or from whom—that "Eureka!" moment everyone is searching for will come!

We need meaningful, not less, EDI and climate action in turbulent times

Protestors demonstrate outside the West Virginia State Capitol in Charleston, W.Va. on Feb. 5, 2025, during what was billed as a nationwide series of protests against U.S. President Donald Trump, Project 2025, EDI rollbacks and other recent government initiatives.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 25/03/2025

Before COVID, I never thought about using apps to help plan a trip or vacation. I decided to dedicate the next decade to traveling more. My son is heading to Japan, and he said the app provided him with insight on what to do and how to best utilize their time in the country.

These Apps Help People With Disabilities Travel Smarter and Safer

An image of the accessible subway lines.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 21/03/2025

Indeed from Calgary, new technology at Arts Commons has helped the organization break down barriers for hearing-impaired audiences. Arts Commons launched its Sennheiser MobileConnect+ program, enables individuals with cochlear implants or Bluetooth hearing devices to connect to the building’s WiFi.

Arts Accessibility in Calgary - The Scene

A picture of Ashley King preforming in Static

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 19/03/2025

Well, here’s some incredible news—John McFall, a former Paralympian for Great Britain, has just made history! He’s now the first astronaut with a disability to receive medical clearance for long-duration space missions. A huge step forward for inclusion in space exploration!

The World's First Astronaut With a Physical Disability Is Cleared for Long-Duration Space Missions — Smithsonian Magazine

European Space Agency astronaut John McFall tests his prosthesis fit in simulated microgravity.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 18/03/2025

It’s impressive to read about the technology the Portland Trail Blazers are using to make their games more accessible for blind fans. They are the first professional sports team to integrate OneCourt devices during live games, allowing blind and low-vision fans to experience basketball in realtime

Social Media Star asfvision Showcases Incredible Accessibility Option at Blazers Game

A picture of the Trail Blazers mascot holding a flag that says 'Rip City

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 14/03/2025

Pottery Barn has partnered with Michael Graves Design, “Design has the power to enrich all of our lives. This pioneering collaboration with Pottery Barn allows us to make beautiful and purposeful furniture available to everyone,” says Rob Van Varick.

Award-Winning Designer Partners with Pottery Barn for Accessible Furniture Line

A photo of a man in a manual wheelchair examining a dresser.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 12/03/2025

Some positive news about one of Elon Musk's companies—Neuralink. A brain implant now allows a person to control computers with their thoughts. This is a life-changing innovation that could help millions. But is this a good or bad thing for human evolution? What do you think?

Elon Musk put a chip in this paralysed man’s brain. Now he can move things with his mind. Should we be amazed - or terrified?

An image of Noland Arbaugh, the first human recipient of Neuralink’s brain implant.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 11/03/2025

Carmelle Goldberg wrote a fantastic article on how I engaged my professional network to tackle a significant challenge—systemic barriers that prevent persons with disabilities from meeting bilingual language proficiency requirements in many large organizations.

Brainstorming systemic barriers in language training for persons with disabilities | Carmelle Goldberg

A picture of someone's hands reading Braille, with the words "Barriers to Language Training" included in the image.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 07/03/2025

I’m thrilled to see St-Hubert embracing accessibility! The restaurant is expanding its inclusive dining program for autistic individuals by reducing sensory stimulation. After launching a pilot project at a Montreal location two years ago, the initiative has now expanded to 24 locations. I

I took my daughter to the launch of St-Hubert's inclusive dining in Ottawa. Here's what we learned.

A photo of Blair Crawford and his daughter, Liz, enjoying a Sunday lunch at St-Hubert in Orléans, Ottawa.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 05/03/2025

This is part of my ongoing series exploring the anti-woke and anti-DEI atmosphere in North America. This article touches on how systems—comprising policies, practices, and societal norms—are the primary culprits behind biases, which often lead to unfair treatment of minority groups.

DEI needs to fix systems, not people

An upward-angled photo of several people walking on a sidewalk, with their shadows extending from their bodies.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 04/03/2025

Individuals have been advocating for Accessibility to be explicitly included in DEI terminology by adding an 'A,' making it DEIA. Up until the summer of 2024, this movement had been gaining momentum. But now, the question is: Is this shift still important? And should Accessibility distance itself?

Can You Have Accessibility Without DEI?

Numerous colorful game piece representations of people, all connected in a network.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 03/03/2025

Out of the 1.3 billion people worldwide living with a disability, over 700 million live in cities. That’s a massive demand for inclusive design and infrastructure. If we’re serious about human rights, we need to build and grow our urban spaces with accessibility at the core—not as an afterthought.

5 Addressable City Accessibility and Inclusion Gaps

:A picture of three Braille signs: one for hearing impairment, one for visual impairment, and one for mobility impairment

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 28/02/2025

"I was approached by American Masters at PBS to do a film about my life and I said, ‘Sure, absolutely,’ and I have, though, one condition that it must be directed by a deaf person, a deaf director, a woman,” said Matlin in an interview at Sundance‘s IndieWire Studio presented by Dropbox.

The Filmmakers Behind ‘Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore’ Want to Prove That ‘Accessibility Builds a Better World’

A picture of Shoshannah with Martin.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 27/02/2025

This month’s Nīewe piece, titled "Top Ten Facts Wheelchair Users Can Understand," features insights from yours truly, illustrating how my disability is a part of my self-identity. In today’s climate ableism are growing across North America/Europe—it’s more important than ever for us to have a voice.

Top 10 Facts Wheelchair Users Can Understand - Nīewe Consulting

An image of a person in an old manual wheelchair entering a boardroom

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 26/02/2025

This is a great example of a brick-and-mortar storefront listening to its customers and implementing something to enhance their shopping experience. It is also an excellent way to build brand loyalty with customers.

Ottawa grocery store steps in to provide accessible shopping cart for father, son

A video of an Ottawa father is hoping to see more accessible shopping carts in stores after the local Whole Foods went above and beyond.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 25/02/2025

Verizon empower how people live, work, and play. So important. It’s more than just a network; it’s about access—whether that’s entertainment, communication, or opportunity. With strong partnerships and exclusive perks, Verizon isn’t just providing a service; it’s shaping experiences .

Accessibility Technology and Innovation Lab at Verizon - Equal Entry

Image Description: Collaboration space with a podium and table. Behind the podium are a banner and photos on the wall.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 24/02/2025

Alberta announced a new disability program that will provide financial and health support to those with disabilities who are able to work. The Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP).

ADAP: Alberta to launch new specified disability program, AISH will remain in place

A photo of Seniors, Community and Social Services Minister Jason Nixon making the announcement.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 21/02/2025

Once again, I am a huge fan of the openness that some networks show toward the disabled community. The inclusion of a double amputee on Naked and Afraid is a clear indication of this progress. I want to be transparent—I have never watched this show, nor am I interested in it.

Naked and Afraid Star Makes History as Show’s First Double Amputee — and That's 'Pretty Damn Cool' (Exclusive)

The star of this season of Naked and Afraid, Mandy, is posing by a riverbed.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 19/02/2025

I focus on positive steps being taken to create a more inclusive environment for people with disabilities. However, it's time to address the elephant in the room—how companies, governments, communities, and individuals are responding to the scaling back or elimination of their DEI programs

What People with Disabilities Should Do as DEI Programs Begin to Disappear

Chain of paper cut out figures with one missing in the middle.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 14/02/2025

Slick Chicks isn’t just an adaptive undergarment brand—it’s a statement. A movement. A commitment to breaking barriers in fashion for individuals with disabilities. Adaptive fashion is redefining style, proving that accessibility and empowerment can—and should—go hand in hand.

Fashion Undergarment Brand Slick Chicks Expands Accessibility

A picture of a middle-aged woman putting on her bra.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 11/02/2025

Emirates is leading the way by becoming the world’s first Autism Certified Airline™. This is a big step forward in making air travel more inclusive, ensuring that autistic and sensory-sensitive passengers can experience the same seamless service and personalized hospitality as everyone else.

Emirates set to become the world’s first Autism Certified Airline™

An image of a few people at the Emirates airline counter.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 07/02/2025

In his upcoming memoir, Source Code: My Beginnings, Microsoft co-founder and tech billionaire Bill Gates, 69, shares that he believes he would have been diagnosed with autism if he were growing up today.

Bill Gates likely had autism as a child, he reveals: ‘Wasn’t widely understood’

A picture of Bill Gates looking up at the sky with his hands raised, set against a blue background.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 05/02/2025

With the outbreak of the LA fires, I’ve been wondering how individuals with certain disabilities are managing their unique challenges in this crisis. I highly recommend that everyone with a disability read about Buckwalter’s ordeal—it’s an important lesson in preparedness.

Fleeing the LA fires alone on a wheelchair: ‘I had to take my chances’

Galen Buckwalter at his hotel room in downtown Los Angeles on Thursday evening after his harrowing evacuation from the Eaton fire.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 04/02/2025

A recent article by William Harkness, Senior Systems Engineer at Boeing Commercial Airplanes, argued that the fundamental flaw in how we approach accessibility today is the assumption that people with disabilities are outliers—considered only after the fact.

Accessibility in Aviation: Redefining the Baseline | William Harkness 💡⚙️

A graphic image of the Trojan Horse with multicolored boxes and diverse people both on and around it.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 29/01/2025

New research estimates that 61.8 million people worldwide are autistic, making it one of the most common developmental disabilities affecting young people today. As of 2021, data published in The Lancet found that 1 in 127 people globally are on the spectrum.

Autism Affects More Than 60 Million Worldwide, Study Finds

A picture of a young couple seated in the kitchen, watching their young child play on the floor.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 28/01/2025

An increasing number of experts are rethinking the way we view ADHD. With the evolving scientific understanding of the condition, many are questioning whether it should even be classified as a disorder. Instead, they propose that ADHD represents a point on the broader spectrum of neurodiversity.

Researchers are questioning if ADHD should be seen as a disorder

A graphic of a person’s head surrounded by a tree with leaves, where the tree branches extend into the person’s brain.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 22/01/2025

Canada's housing crisis, driven by soaring demand and limited supply, highlights an urgent need for accessible housing solutions. As we plan for the future, we must ensure accessibility is at the forefront of construction efforts.

Advocates call for accessibility in Canada's housing

A picture of a living room featuring a staircase equipped with a seat lift for moving up and down the stairs.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 21/01/2025

Welcome to the Dot Experience: the groundbreaking, reimagined, and expanded museum of the American Printing House for the Blind in Louisville, Kentucky. This remarkable initiative is setting its sights on becoming the most accessible museum in the world—a true leader in inclusive design/engagement.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 20/01/2025

Accessibility Standards Canada has released the new Accessible Employment Standard. Employers should review it to understand their responsibilities, and employees should read it to be informed about their rights.

CAN/ASC-1.1:2024 – Employment - Accessibility Standards Canada

The image features the technical mark for Accessibility Standards Canada and the Standards Council of Canada. The text reads: National Standard of Canada CAN/ASC-1.1:2024 – Employment. The background shows puzzle pieces.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 15/01/2025

A recent post by Variety Magazine highlights an important statistic: individuals with disabilities make up 28.7% of the viewing and purchasing audience in the U.S.—Despite this significant demographic, in 2022, only 1.9% of speaking characters in the top 100 films had a disability.

Accessibility Is Worth Investing In: Why Hollywood Must Prioritize Disability Inclusion

Actors, writers and directors participated in a conversation presented by Easterseals Southern California, a nonprofit supporting people with disabilities

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 14/01/2025

Fable posted an article online about the habits of individuals with disabilities. Unsurprisingly, accessibility was the most frequently mentioned reason why people with disabilities chose one website over another.

Insights: The state of online shopping for people with disabilities

It is a graphic featuring a shopping cart.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 13/01/2025

Accessibility Standards Canada has just opened the public review period for our draft Accessible-Ready Housing Standard! Your feedback is essential in shaping homes that are adaptable, inclusive, and accessible for all Canadians. Take the time to review the draft and share your comments today.

CAN/ASC-2.8 - Accessible-Ready Housing - Accessibility Standards Canada

An image of a semi-built house displayed above architectural design forms.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 10/01/2025

A recent article has made a bold statement this holiday season. According to the United Spinal Association, over 1.3 billion people—representing 15% to 20% of the global population—experience disability. This community, along with their friends and family, wields a spending power of $13 trillion.

Unlocking the Potential of Disability Spending Power

A picture of a woman in a manual wheelchair browsing blouses on display in a department store.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 09/01/2025

Nīewe Consulting has released another installment in its ongoing Top Ten series. This month’s piece is titled “My Top 10 Takeaways from 2024 That Impacted Canadians with Disabilities”. In this installment, I chose to reflect on and count down the key moments from 2024 that significantly impacted PwD

My Top 10 Take Aways from 2024 that Impacted Canadians with Disabilities - Nīewe Consulting

A photo showing the right side of a person in a wheelchair, focusing on their hand as they push the wheel.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 08/01/2025

Lego is making an important step towards inclusion by introducing new characters outfitted with the internationally recognized Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard. This subtle design feature helps signal that an individual may have a hidden disability and could benefit from additional support.

Lego Increases Disability Inclusion In Its Product Line

A picture of five new Lego characters wearing the Sunflower lanyard.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 07/01/2025

At Dalhousie University in Halifax, a determined medical student from B.C. is making groundbreaking advancements in the medical field, inspiring a new generation of healthcare professionals. Another frontier has been broken down.

This Canadian is his school’s first medical student in a wheelchair. He’s thinking big | Globalnews.ca

RJ Roggeveen sits in his electric wheelchair in the center of a standard operating room.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 06/01/2025

ASC has released its 2024 Accessibility Progress Report, highlighting progress in advancing accessibility goals and breaking down barriers to ensure equitable participation in its work and services. From innovative solutions to inclusive practices, explore the advancement

Accessibility Standards Canada on LinkedIn: #accessibility #inclusion #accessiblecanada

A graphic featuring four columns of increasing size, accompanied by an arrow indicating upward movement.

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 25/12/2024

My disability makes it difficult for me to unwrap gifts, I’ve asked to use gift bags/boxes with lids. My daughter ingeniously redesigned wrapping by adding a tag or rope for easy opening. I hope this inspires you to consider accessibility when wrapping gifts for loved ones with disabilities.

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 24/12/2024

My disability makes it difficult for me to unwrap gifts, I’ve asked to use gift bags/boxes with lids. My daughter ingeniously redesigned wrapping by adding a tag or rope for easy opening. I hope this inspires you to consider accessibility when wrapping gifts for loved ones with disabilities. #pwd

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 20/12/2024

Wishing everyone a Happy Holidays and Joyful New Years! #pwd

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 19/12/2024

Nīewe Consulting released installment in our ongoing Top Ten series. “10 Things a Neurodivergent Person Wants You to Know”. Read about Bushra Hashim an Adoptive Design Specialist. #pwd

10 Things a Neurodivergent Person Wants You to Know - Nīewe Consulting

formerly baiame consulting

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 18/12/2024

Nīewe Consulting released installment in our ongoing Top Ten series. “Top Ten: What You Need to Know About Me Being Deaf”. Read about Leah Riddell, a Deaf Entrepreneur.

Top Ten: What You Need to Know About Me Being Deaf - Nīewe Consulting

formerly baiame consulting

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 18/12/2024

Nīewe Consulting released installment in our ongoing Top Ten series. “10 Things You Should Know About Navigating Anxiety and Depression as a South Asian in the Workplace”. Read about Lizna Husnani-Puchta as a dedicated professional in equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility.

10 Things You Should Know About Navigating Anxiety and Depression as a South Asian in the Workplace - Nīewe Consulting

formerly baiame consulting

000

Max L. Brault @knowaccessibility.bsky.social · 17/12/2024

Nīewe Consulting released installment in our ongoing Top Ten series. ”Top Ten: What You Need to Know About Me Being a Person with Low Vision”. Read about Tony Labillois dedicated 35 years of professional life to Statistics Canada.

Top Ten: What You Need to Know About Me Being a Person with Low Vision - Nīewe Consulting

formerly baiame consulting