Wow, time went fast! Let's do this again! DHS Accessibility Day 2024 - a two day, virtual event - is designed for anyone who believes that everyone deserves equal access to information and services, enriching customer experience. Our jam-packed schedule includes thought-provoking discussions, interactive workshops, and inspiring keynote speakers who will share their stories and expertise on the latest accessibility trends and best practices on accessibility and customer experience.
This free, virtual, two-day event will be hosted on Microsoft Teams from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. EDT on Tuesday, April 23 and Wednesday, April 24, 2024.
The event is only available to federal employees and federal contractors within the United States Government.
Whether you're a seasoned accessibility professional or just starting out, you'll leave feeling energized and equipped with the knowledge and tools you need to create a more inclusive world. So mark your calendars and join us for DHS Accessibility Day 2024 - it's an event you won't want to miss!
Please contact Accessibility@hq.dhs.gov for questions or if you need more information.
| Time / Category | Session |
|---|---|
10:00 - 10:10 AM Remarks | Event OpeningVince Prentice |
10:10 - 10:20 AM Remarks | RemarksDana Chisnell |
10:20 – 10:50 AM Remarks | Keynote Remarks & Fireside ChatClare Martorana Cassie Winters |
10:50 – 11:00 AM Break | Break |
11:00 - 11:15 AM Remarks | RemarksNicshan Floyd |
11:15 - 11:30 AM Remarks | RemarksTimothy Monaghan |
11:30 - 11:45 AM Remarks | RemarksShoba Sivaprasad Wadhia |
11:45 AM - 12:15 PM Presentation | Bridging the Gap: How CX & Accessibility Work TogetherNicshan Floyd |
12:15 - 12:45 PM Break | Lunch |
12:45 - 1:15 PM Presentation | What is Accessible Plain Language?Sharon Attipoe-Dorcoo |
1:15 - 2:00 PM Activity | Your Worst Idea First: Accessibility EditionDominique Wheeler |
2:00 - 2:15 PM Break | Stretch Break |
2:15 - 2:45 PM Presentation | What is U.S. Access Board?Bruce Bailey |
2:45 - 3:30 PM Presentation | Usability Testing Demystified by Customer ExperienceChristopher Patten, Senior Human-Centered Designer |
3:30 - 4:00 PM Remarks | Accessibility in Enterprise SolutionsKarla Rodriquez |
4:00 PM Remarks | Closing RemarksVince Prentice |
| Time / Category | Session |
|---|---|
10:00 - 10:05 AM Remarks | IntroductionVince Prentice |
10:05 - 10:15 AM Remarks | RemarksChristopher Bartz |
10:15 - 11:00 AM Presentation | Beyond Disability Design: The Three Dimensions of AccessibilityDr. Sherman Gillums, Jr. |
11:00 - 11:15 AM Break | Stretch Break |
11:15 AM – 12:00 PM Panel Discussion | Similarities & Differences in Resourcing Initiatives in Customer Experience and AccessibilityModerator: Joseph Key, DHS CXD Compliance & Integration Specialist |
12:00 - 12:30PM Break | Lunch Break |
12:30 - 1:30 PM Panel Discussion | Exploring the Office of Human Capital's Mission of Enhancing the Human Experience and Support People with DisabilitiesModerator: Robert Borka, Deputy Director for DHS Office of Program Accountability and Risk Management (PARM) and Senior Executive for Deaf & Hard-of-Hearing DHS Employee Association |
1:30 - 1:45 PM Break | Break |
1:45 - 2:15 PM Panel Discussion | Ensuring Access For Persons Who Are Limited English Proficient (LEP) Across DHSRebekah Tosado, Section Chief, Anti-discrimination Group |
Presentation | Deep Dive in the Trusted Tester Update & Document ProcessesTonya Hill, Cliff Soon & Loriann Girard |
3:00 - 3:45 PM Presentation | Office Accessibility and Getting Ready for Microsoft Office 365's CopilotDean Halstead |
3:45 - 4:00 PM Remarks | Closing RemarksBruce Bailey |
DHS is dedicated to making all events accessible, including virtual ones.
Sign Language (ASL)
DHS is committed to providing a team of three American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters for the entire two-day event. For most sessions lasting up to 30 minutes, one interpreter will be visible on screen. During panel discussions, it's possible a team of at least two interpreters may work in sync on the screen. If an active interpreter encounters technical issues, standby interpreters will be available to promptly step in, ensuring uninterrupted and effective communication facilitation.
Captioning (CART)
DHS will provide real-time captioning services (CART) by employing a certified machine stenographer, as known as a court reporter. The captions will be integrated into Microsoft Teams, but DHS will also provide a separate hyperlink (URL). This allows users to access captions in an independent browser window and customize the viewing experience according to their preferences. Microsoft Teams will continue to offer Automated Speech Recognition (ASR), also referred to as "live captions." Viewers can effortlessly switch between ASR captioning and CART captioning as desired.
Accessible Electronic Materials
DHS will make accessible electronic materials available in advance for the Blind or Low-Vision Community.
Keyboard Shortcuts and Assistive Technology
Microsoft has created a useful article detailing how to utilize keyboard shortcuts for easier navigation during a Teams meeting. To access the Microsoft Teams keyboard shortcuts article, please click here.