People with disabilities say access to computer technology and better access to the internet are two big issues in their fight for the future and for more meaningful lives. Advocates say high tech companies must do more to make software, websites and other high tech tools more accessible for individuals with a disability. Microsoft agrees we must work all together for accessibility.

The company recently outlined its position in Washington, D.C. at a celebration to mark the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Microsoft Corp.'s Director of Federal Government Affairs, Jack Krumholtz, challenged the high-tech industry to make technology easier for people with disabilities to use. The event welcomed the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) Spirit of the ADA Torch Relay to Washington, D.C. During the celebration, Krumholtz applauded the progress made by the ADA. He pointed out that the high-tech industry is at a crucial point to ensure that the new virtual world created by technology offers the same opportunities made possible by the ADA.

"Microsoft believes that accessible technology is intrinsically tied to the true power and spirit of the ADA and can be a key component in enabling Americans with disabilities to achieve success today - and especially tomorrow," Krumholtz said. "As a technology company, we've seen firsthand how advances in technology have made a strong impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities, within Microsoft and elsewhere."

Krumholtz added there is a great opportunity for the high-tech industry to provide leadership and innovation by working together to ensure that people with disabilities have easy and consistent access to all technology.

"The ADA's first 10 years should be recognized for the widespread changes in physical access and accommodations for Americans with disabilities in the built environment," said Deborah Kaplan, executive director, World Institute on Disability. "The next 10 years should extend these improvements into the virtual world. Accessible technology can ensure that people with disabilities have the opportunity for advancement in the future, as the world becomes more and more digital."

At the ADA celebration, Microsoft called for increased involvement to help create technology that will virtually eliminate all limitations most people with disabilities face at work and home. Like many other high-tech companies, Microsoft has worked with corporate customers and disability community advocates over the years to help them better accommodate workers with disabilities and their career development. The Accessible Technology Group oversees Microsoft’s accessibility efforts.

The Able to Work Consortium, which was co-founded by Microsoft and the National Business & Disability Council, currently has 21 companies from around North America. They are working together to address the real employment issues faced by people with disabilities. These companies are joining advocates for people with disabilities, working all together for accessibility. Other Resources:

Microsoft Accessible Technology Group www.microsoft.com/enable

World Institute on Disability www.wid.org

Able To Work Consortium www.abletowork.org