The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Accessibility Day is coming back in 2025! This two-day online event will bring people together who want to make sure everyone can access and use digital information and services, including people with disabilities.
Some exciting things are in the works as we are planning two full days of learning and sharing that will help you make digital content that works for everyone. Whether you're new to accessibility or have been doing accessibility work for years, you'll want to be part of this event.
What to look forward to:
- Learn from speakers who will share their real-world experiences and success stories
- Join hands-on workshops during which you can practice making content accessible
- Learn about tools and methods that make accessibility easier
- Hear about the latest trends in improving customer experiences
- Meet others who care about accessibility and share ideas.
How you can join: We'll host all sessions on Microsoft Teams. You can join from your computer or mobile device.
Who can attend: This free event is open to all federal employees and federal contractors who work for the U.S. federal government.
Stay tuned as we will announce the dates soon! This will be your chance to learn how to create digital content that works for everyone. Join us and be a part of making the digital world more accessible for all.
Want to be among the first to know when registration opens? Do you have any questions? If so, email us at Accessibility@hq.dhs.gov.
DHS is dedicated to making all events accessible, including virtual ones.
Sign Language (ASL)
DHS will provide 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 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 to ensure uninterrupted and effective communication facilitation.
Captioning (CART)
DHS will provide real-time captioning services (CART) by employing a certified machine stenographer, also known as a court reporter. The captions will be integrated into Microsoft Teams and DHS will also provide a separate link that will allow users to access captions in an independent browser window and customize the viewing experience according to the user’s preferences. Microsoft Teams will also offer Automated Speech Recognition (ASR), also referred to as "live captions." Viewers will be able to 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 Microsoft Teams keyboard shortcuts article detailing how to utilize keyboard shortcuts for easier navigation during a Teams meeting.