News from Northwest ADA Center – Idaho

Accessible Political Campaign

More than 15% of voting age Idahoans have a disability. More than 14 million people with disabilities voted in the 2018 mid-term election. That’s an increase of 9% from the 2014 mid-terms. 

To reach these voters, public events like debates, forums and town hall meetings need to be accessible. Prior to scheduling, planners should check for:
   -accessible parking close to the entrance
   -access route to the door is at least 36” wide
   -are all doorways inside the building 36”
   -are bathrooms accessible
   -if accessible entrance is different, make sure signage directs people to accessible entrance
   -make sure licensed sign language interpreters are available for entire event
   -if the event is filmed make sure it is closed captioned

For email information:
   -avoid using images in emails because screen readers cannot tell what the image is
   -if you include a phone line for the general public, include an email address for alternative communication
   -if using PDF’s make sure it is accessible.

For snail mail:
   -be sure staff know how to handle a request for braille or large print.
   -have material available on a CD or flash drive
   -use a font that is easy to read like Aphont, Arial (18 pt)

Communicate:
   -talk directly to the person, not the aide
   -use a normal voice unless requested otherwise
   -make eye contact
   -if you don’t understand the person, ask them to repeat what they said
   -when talking to a person in a wheelchair, find a chair or bench to put yourself at the same height. 

Dana Gover, MPA, and ACTCP Certification, ADA Training and Technical Assistance Coordinator 

For more information about ADA Technical Assistance visit the NW ADA Center Idaho website: nwadacenter.org/idaho

Email:dananwadacenteridaho@gmail.com
Phone: Voice and Text 208-841-9422
Idaho Relay Service: 7