New Paths to the Internet: U.S.-Japan Perspectives on Universal IT Access

Corporate Luncheon Symposium
Thursday, November 18
12 – 2:30 pm

Advocates for the disabled are struggling to overcome issues of accessibility to ensure that the internet is available to all. The IT industry is developing new technologies such as voice recognition and Braille displays to allow people with disabilities of all kinds to access IT. In the U.S., regulation protects the rights of the disabled, but other countries such as Japan have yet to tackle this issue. As use of and reliance on technology increases worldwide, global standards are being developed to ensure IT access for the disabled . This panel examines the U.S., Japanese and global efforts in regulation, not-for-profit programs and cutting-edge technologies to improve the civic lives and professional opportunities for the disabled, helping global IT to evolve as an inclusive and egalitarian phenomenon.

Panelists
Sylvia Clark, Executive Director, NEC Foundation of America
Ken Nakata, Director of Government Compliance for ADA and Rehabilitation Act Services, BayFirst Systems LLC
Frances West, Director of IBM Worldwide Accessibility Center, IBM Corporation
Hajime Yamada, Dean, Graduate School of Economics, Toyo University

Agenda
12 – 12:30 pm Registration & reception
12:30 – 1         Luncheon
1 – 2:30           Panel discussion

Japan Society is accessible to people with disabilities. This program includes sign-language interpretation; program materials in alternative media are available upon request. For more information, to discuss special needs or request alternative media, please contact Karen Hawkins at (212) 715-1218 or [email protected] in advance of the program.

Admission: Attendance is free, but registration is required. There is limited space for the luncheon and seats will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.