News

Access Matters advocates Chris Orr, who is blind, and Ite Lemalu, who has low vision, recently met with Green MP and Minister Hon Julie Anne Genter via Zoom to talk about how accessibility legislation will improve access to information during a crisis.

Amputees Federation of New Zealand joins the growing number of organisations supporting the Access Alliance.

Watch the video of Access Alliance Chair, Chrissie Cowan, speaking with Vicki on Community Collaborators.

A message from the Access Alliance

We have come a long way and it has been a real team effort. At times it’s been tough, and with your support, we have reached a major milestone in our vision of creating a more accessible Aotearoa New Zealand through the introduction of accessibility legislation.

Changing Places NZ joins the growing number of organisations supporting the Access Alliance.

26 July 2020 marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  The ADA was written to provide a clear and comprehensive national mandate for the elimination of discrimination against individuals with disabilities.

"The ADA confirms the vital role that civil society plays in American democracy; it is a story of civic activism encouraging legislative action that leads to enduring change over time. The ADA has also inspired the world to see disability issues through the lens of equality and opportunity, and influenced actions by international organizations ... to address discrimination faced by persons with disabilities. Overall, the ADA has encouraged equal opportunity and reminded America that their heritage of equal rights for all requires equal access for all."

By Ben Sides. Originally published July 2020, State Magazine.

Julie Woods, aka 'That Blind Woman' and #AccessMatters advocate, caught up with James Shaw, Green Party Co-Leader. Julie talked with him about the #AccessAlliance and the work that is being done on #AccessibilityLegislation.

James said the Greens will be discussing #Access this week in their caucus.

"We are calling on all parties to support #AccessLawNow!"

Julie Woods

#AccessMatters campaigners, Rhonda Comins, Sara Labrooy and Taryn Banks spent a very pleasant hour with Denise Lee, MP for Maungakiekie, this morning to brief her on why we need #AccessLawNow

"We are calling on all parties to commit to putting law at the heart of a more inclusive Aotearoa New Zealand so we have #AccessForAll and no one is left behind!"

New Zealand’s Access Alliance calls for a legislative pathway to a post-Covid recovery in which we can all participate.

By David Porter, Grey Power Magazine.  Originally published 21 June 2020, Bay of Plenty Business News.

The Access Alliance People’s Choice Awards was presented on Friday, 21st of February at the Sudima Auckland Airport. The event recognised businesses and organisations who were going above and beyond to accommodate their customers with access needs.