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Issue 37 | August 2023 |
This newsletter is available in alternate formats on request. |
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Accessible Documents – What you need to know |
We live in a world with access to endless information and daily communication. It’s part of everything we do. Many of us face barriers to accessing information daily, but for those who don’t, imagine your line of communication was cut-off and you were unable to access much-needed information. You couldn’t view a website, the font on a document was too small to read or you could no longer hear important information. |
Accessible communication is essential and is at the forefront of the Accessible Information and Communication Standard. Enacted May 1, 2022, this standard outlines how organizations need to consider how Manitobans interact with or access information to provide barrier-free information and communication. |
As an organization, accessible documents benefit all audiences. Making information clear, direct, easy to understand and usable by a wide audience, including people with disabilities and those who use a variety of devices, can remove barriers. Providing accessible documents is important to ensure that all people have equal access to information. |
Formatting and structuring information in an accessible way from the beginning helps ensure documents are accessible and can be converted into a variety of alternate formats. These formats may include large print, electronic and digital documents, Braille, plain language, text transcripts of visual or audio information and American Sign Language or closed captioned interpreted documents. |
If an accessible document does not work for an individual, remember to ask what format or support would work best for them and provide it in that way. |
Other Helpful Resources on Accessible Documents: |
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Visit AccessibilityMB.ca to learn more about the Accessible Information and Communication Standard and compliance deadlines. |
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The Accessibility for Manitobans Act Online Learning Portal |
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Did you know there is free accessibility training available on AccessibilityMB.ca? |
This free training is available online anytime from anywhere. There are currently courses available on the Accessible Customer Service Standard and the Accessible Employment Standard. All courses are presented in plain language and detail the requirements of each accessibility standard. |
Do you want to include accessibility training in your organization’s internal learning management system? |
The AMA Online Learning Portal features downloadable standard-specific modules that can be used within your organization's internal Learning Management System. |
Modules are available for download to all Manitoba businesses and organizations at no cost. |
Visit AccessibilityMB.ca to learn more about accessibility training opportunities. |
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In the News: |
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Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition. Estimates show that about 1 in 50 children and youth in Canada aged 1 to 17 years has been diagnosed with autism. The Government of Canada is committed to improving the health and well-being of Autistic Canadians of all ages and to supporting families and caregivers. |
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Announcements: |
Opportunities: |
Participants Needed for a Project on Neuroinclusivity! |
Carleton University is looking for standards developers to provide input that will contribute to the development of a policy toolkit and educational resource that will help make Canada more accessible and inclusive. |
What is involved? |
Participants will do a 2-hour (with a 15-minute break) online focus group (small group conversation) about the best ways for the team to create a toolkit and an educational resource that will promote neurodivergent considerations in standards development. Accommodations are available. |
Who can participate? |
To participate, you must be: Employed in a profession that involves developing standards in Canada; and Able to communicate in English, French, ASL, or LSQ, with or without support.
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Adults who belong to other marginalized communities (for example, Indigenous, people of colour, trans/non-binary, queer, non-speaking) are especially encouraged to participate. |
Visit Carlton.ca to learn more about this opportunity or to sign-up. |
Awareness Dates: |
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