Tag: DEI

Inclusion is far more than a policy or buzzword; it is a powerful catalyst for innovation, productivity, and social justice. For individuals like me—someone who is blind and has Asperger’s syndrome—inclusion is the foundation that enables us to fully contribute our skills, experience, and unique perspectives to the workplace and community. It is about recognizing and dismantling barriers while building systems and cultures that welcome and empower everyone.

This blog post explores the practical meaning of inclusion and accessibility from my lived experience, details the assistive tools and techniques that enable me to work independently, highlights the strengths neurodiverse individuals bring, and explains why businesses that embrace inclusion unlock competitive advantages and long-term success.

What Does Accessibility and Inclusion Really Mean?

Accessibility is often narrowly defined as compliance with regulations or providing accommodations, but true accessibility is a proactive, holistic approach to designing environments, technologies, and communications that are usable and welcoming to all people—regardless of sensory, physical, or cognitive differences.

From my perspective as a blind individual with Asperger’s, inclusion means:

Clear, precise, and step-by-step verbal directions: Instead of vague phrases like “over there” or “this way,” directions such as “turn right at the water fountain, walk 10 steps forward, then enter through the door on your left” provide clarity and independence.
Information repeated or reworded as needed: Because I process language differently, sometimes I need instructions or concepts explained again or phrased in another way to fully grasp them. This flexible communication style fosters better understanding and collaboration.
Multiple accessible content formats: Information should be available in various formats—Braille, large print, audio, and digital text compatible with screen readers—to accommodate different needs and preferences.
Predictable routines and structured environments: Many neurodiverse individuals, including those with Asperger’s, perform best with clear, consistent schedules and expectations, which reduce anxiety and enhance focus.

Inclusion isn’t just about removing barriers—it’s about valuing different ways of experiencing and interacting with the world.

Adaptive Tools That Empower Independence and Excellence

Thanks to advancements in assistive technology, people who are blind or have low vision can independently complete complex tasks and engage fully in professional and daily life. Some of the key tools I use include:

Screen readers on computers and smartphones: Software such as JAWS, NVDA, or VoiceOver convert text, menus, buttons, and web content into synthesized speech or Braille output, enabling me to navigate digital environments efficiently.
Optical character recognition (OCR) scanners: These devices scan printed materials—whether letters, contracts, menus, or forms—and convert the text into readable or listenable digital formats. This allows me to access a wide variety of documents without assistance.
Handheld and desktop video magnifiers: Although I don’t currently use screen magnifiers, these devices provide magnified, high-contrast views of printed materials, which is invaluable when working with detailed visual information.
Braille reading and writing: Maintaining Braille literacy is critical for accurate note-taking, document editing, and detailed information management. It remains a core skill that complements digital tools.
White cane travel: My white cane is an essential mobility aid that supports safe, confident navigation through unfamiliar or busy spaces—whether at work, on public transit, or outdoors.

Collectively, these tools enable me to meet deadlines, communicate effectively, and contribute high-quality work independently. They are not accommodations but extensions of my capabilities.

The Unique Strengths of Neurodiversity in the Workplace

Being an individual with Asperger’s offers strengths that complement diverse teams and drive success:

Intense focus and sustained attention: I can maintain deep concentration on complex tasks for extended periods, which helps in completing detailed projects efficiently.
Keen attention to detail: I often spot inconsistencies or errors others may miss, which contributes to higher quality outcomes and fewer mistakes.
Logical and systematic problem-solving: My methodical approach supports innovative thinking and improves processes by identifying logical solutions.
Reliability and dedication: When instructions are clear and environments structured, I consistently deliver work on time and to a high standard.

While I may sometimes need information repeated or rephrased, this is a natural variation in cognitive processing that can be supported through patient, inclusive communication. Embracing neurodiversity enhances team creativity, resilience, and performance.

The Tangible Benefits of Inclusivity for Organizations

Companies and organizations that embed inclusion and accessibility into their DNA see measurable benefits:

Elevated customer experience: Clear, accessible communication builds trust and loyalty among clients, especially those with disabilities or specific needs.
Higher employee engagement and retention: Inclusive workplaces create a sense of belonging and respect, leading to lower turnover and stronger morale.
Access to a broader market: More than 1 billion people worldwide live with disabilities—by prioritizing accessibility, organizations tap into this significant and often underserved demographic.
Enhanced innovation: Diverse cognitive and sensory perspectives lead to more creative, effective problem-solving and decision-making.
Legal compliance and brand reputation: Meeting accessibility standards reduces legal risk and builds a positive public image as an ethical, forward-thinking entity.

Inclusion is both a social responsibility and a smart business strategy that contributes to sustained success.

How to Build Truly Inclusive Environments: Practical Steps

Creating accessibility and inclusion is an ongoing journey that requires intentional action:

Listen to those with lived experience: Engage directly with employees, customers, or community members who have disabilities or neurodiverse conditions to identify barriers and opportunities for improvement.
Invest in training and awareness: Educate staff on disability etiquette, inclusive communication, and accessible technology to build empathy and competence.
Audit physical and digital spaces: Ensure that buildings, websites, documents, and digital tools meet accessibility standards such as WCAG guidelines and ADA requirements.
Implement flexible policies: Allow individualized accommodations and recognize different communication and work style needs.
Use clear, consistent communication: Provide detailed instructions, allow for repetition or rephrasing, and use multiple accessible formats.

These actions foster a culture of respect and empower all individuals to contribute their best.

Looking Forward: Inclusion as a Foundation for Growth and Innovation

The organizations and communities that embrace inclusion today will lead tomorrow’s innovation and social progress. By designing systems and cultures that welcome diverse ways of thinking and being, we create environments where everyone can thrive.

As a blind professional with Asperger’s, I know the transformative power of accessibility and inclusive communication—not only for my own success but for the enrichment of every space I am part of.

True inclusion requires ongoing commitment, empathy, and collaboration. But the payoff—a more equitable, innovative, and prosperous world—is immeasurable.

Are you ready to embrace accessibility and inclusion in your organization? Start by listening, learning, and partnering with those who live these experiences daily. Together, we can unlock the full potential of every individual and create lasting positive change.

When most individuals learn that someone is blind, they often assume it means complete or partial loss of vision. What they don’t realize is that the blind individual has only lost their physical vision, and still has the ability to use mental, tactile, and audio vision to interact with and understand the world. These nonvisual forms of vision not only help blind individuals thrive, but they also enable them to live full, independent lives.

What Is Mental, Tactile, and Audio Vision?

Mental Vision

Mental vision is the ability to imagine or visualize something in your mind, whether it’s a task you need to accomplish, a goal you want to reach, or a creative project you are working on. This type of vision goes beyond what can be seen with the eyes. Mental vision allows blind individuals to use their imagination and creativity to “see” possibilities, plan solutions, and create mental maps of their surroundings.

For example, blind individuals may use mental vision to plan a route through a new location, rehearse a presentation in their mind, or create a mental image of a painting or photograph. They rely on their mind’s eye to visualize the world in the same way sighted individuals use their eyes, which empowers them to make decisions and take actions confidently.

Tactile Vision

Tactile vision refers to using the sense of touch to explore objects or environments. For blind individuals, the sense of touch becomes an essential tool in understanding the world around them. Using Braille, tactile graphics, and other specialized materials, blind people are able to read and interact with information in ways that are just as effective as sighted individuals use their vision.

Examples of tactile objects that facilitate tactile vision include Braille books, LEGO bricks, 3D photos, and tactile maps. These tools allow blind individuals to gather information, process ideas, and navigate their environment independently. For instance, a blind person can use a slate and stylus to write Braille notes or feel the raised shapes on a tactile map to understand the layout of a space. Tactile vision enriches their world and promotes learning, communication, and independence.

Audio Vision

Audio vision involves the ability to understand and interpret the world using sound. For blind individuals, auditory cues and feedback provide essential information about their environment. This could include listening to descriptions of objects or surroundings, using screen readers to navigate websites, or utilizing auditory navigation apps to move through physical spaces.

Screen readers like JAWS (Job Access With Speech), NVDA (Nonvisual Desktop Access), TalkBack, or VoiceOver turn digital text into audio, allowing blind individuals to interact with technology, write emails, or surf the web. Navigation apps such as AIRA, Be My Eyes, and Seeing AI use audio cues to describe the world, guiding blind individuals through their day-to-day tasks with spoken descriptions. For example, a voice assistant might tell a blind person which bus is approaching, provide directions, or even describe a scene in a photograph.

Through audio vision, blind individuals can gain insight into their surroundings, stay informed, and interact with the world without relying on sight.

The NFB Philosophy

As the National Federation of the Blind’s one-minute message states, “Blindness is not the characteristic that defines a blind person and their future.” This powerful statement reflects the NFB’s long-standing belief that blind individuals can lead rich, successful lives. By learning how to use nonvisual tools and techniques, maintaining a positive “can do” attitude, and embracing an adaptable mindset, blind individuals can reach their goals and live life to the fullest.

This philosophy has been at the heart of the NFB’s mission since its founding in 1940. Through advocacy, education, and technology, the NFB works to break down barriers and change public perceptions about blindness, helping to create a world in which blind people have access to equal opportunities and the tools they need to succeed.

The Story Behind “Blind With Vision”

In 2015, when I was searching for a tagline for my company, Mackey Enterprises, I asked several individuals for their ideas and suggestions. During one of my workout sessions with Steve Murray of Rezults Never Lie, he reminded me that even though I might be blind, no one can ever take away my vision. This profound insight led me to create the tagline “Blind With Vision,” which aligns perfectly with the NFB’s philosophy.

This phrase represents the idea that blind individuals possess vision in ways that go beyond physical sight. It symbolizes resilience, creativity, and adaptability—the qualities that allow blind individuals to overcome challenges and live the lives they choose.

What Does “Blind With Vision” Really Mean?

The best way to explain the meaning behind “Blind With Vision” is through an example. Let’s consider a blind individual who needs to take notes independently. Here are some of the ways they might do this:

Using a slate and stylus to write notes in Braille.
Recording notes on a voice recorder and later transcribing them using a screen reader.
Using audio navigation tools like AIRA or Be My Eyes to guide them through new environments, or even recording a spoken summary of a meeting.

By using mental, tactile, and audio vision, blind individuals are able to “see” tasks and experiences from multiple perspectives. Whether they are working, studying, or engaging in personal activities, blind people use their nonvisual senses to approach challenges and find solutions that align with their abilities and strengths.

Living Life With a “Blind With Vision” Mindset

I encourage you to live the life you want by seeing things from a different perspective. Whether you are blind, low vision, sighted, deafblind, deaf, hard of hearing, autistic, or experience any other condition, it’s important to embrace a “Blind With Vision” mindset. The world is full of opportunities, and you can achieve your goals if you’re willing to use your unique vision to navigate challenges and embrace your potential.

Final Thoughts

It doesn’t matter whether you are blind or sighted—the key to success is to think creatively and see the world through your unique lens. By adopting a “Blind With Vision” mindset, you unlock endless possibilities for personal growth and achievement. Embrace mental, tactile, and audio vision, and live a life full of purpose, fulfillment, and independence.

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