Andrew Leland, a journalist, audio producer, editor and professor, in “The Country of the Blind” writes about how he gradually lost his vision due to retinitis pigmentosa. But this book is much more than his story. One can view it as a history book about blindness and blind people. Andrew Leland takes the reader through..
Your Museum is Not Yet Accessible, What Can You Do?
Introduction As I described earlier, a museum’s accessibility is not a true or false, for that matter, it never will be, but it is a continuous progress towards inclusion and exceptional accessibility. But if you feel that your museum could be more accessible, there is quite a bit you can do. It will not be..
How to Design Museums That Cater to the Blind
Introduction When planning a visit to a museum, one crucial question is often in the minds of many people with disabilities: Is this museum accessible? The significance of this question cannot be overstated. If a museum isn't accessible, visiting it could turn out to be a frustrating, if not entirely wasted, experience. Conversely, if it..
The Canadian Museum of History
After I was done with my work in Ottawa, I only had time to visit one thing before my flight. There is so much to pick from, I chose the Canadian Museum of History, but I would like to return, preferably in warmer weather. Each time I go to Ottawa, Cleveland reminds me of tropical..
The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati
As I was planning my trip to Cincinnati, I came across the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center which sounded very exciting. I was wondering if there would be a touch tour available. When I checked the site, there was information about a tactile map and an audio tour, but I was looking for more. I..
Visiting the National Building Museum
I was always interested in miniature buildings or building replicas. When I travel, I hear so much about the architecture, but it is hard to imagine it without actually seeing it. Thus, I always try to find a replica of a building I visited if there is one available. It is much more meaningful together..
Experience Art Differently: The Touch Tour at Cincinnati Art Museum
I heard about the accessibility program of the Cincinnati Art Museum from Sara Birkofer at the LEAD conference. She talked about the touch tours she organizes, I immediately knew I have to get there somehow. I went up to Sara after their presentation and asked her to include me on one of her tours. Spoiler..
Gift Ideas for Blind Travelers
This guide is intended to help you to buy thoughtful gifts for blind travelers, though most recommendations can just as easily be used at home. I am personally familiar with all of the items I recommend, and use most of them on a regular basis. (more…)
What Makes an Accessible Environment?
I often hear the argument that making something accessible for blind people is not worth it, because there aren’t many blind people using it. My argument usually is that if it was accessible, you would have more blind people taking advantage of it. It is even more difficult when we don’t just make something accessible..
Leadership Exchange in Arts and Disability (LEAD)
Last month I attended the Leadership Exchange in Art and Disability (LEAD) conference in Boston, which was the most inclusive conference I have ever been to. And that’s to say a lot, because in the last 25 years, I have attended at least 40 conferences which primarily had an audience of people with disabilities, plus..