Empowering Inclusion: The Transformative Role of AI in Accessibility
Access to AI is crucial for art and writing for individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities; for people with conditions like paraplegia, missing or non-functional limbs, mental disabilities, and neurodivergence, traditional methods of creating art and writing can be physically or cognitively challenging, if not impossible. AI technologies bridge this gap by providing tools that adapt to the needs and abilities of these individuals, enabling them to express themselves in ways that would otherwise be inaccessible.
AI’s Crucial Role in Enabling Creative Expression and Communication for Individuals with Disabilities
For someone who cannot hold a pen or paintbrush or type on a keyboard, AI is not just a tool but an extension of their creativity. It allows them to create visual art, write stories, or compose music using voice commands, eye movements, or other accessible interfaces. For those with cognitive disabilities, AI can offer structured assistance, helping them organise their thoughts, find the right words, or navigate complex creative processes. AI has become a vital means of communication and self-expression, allowing these individuals to participate in cultural, artistic, and intellectual life on an equal footing. Understanding the importance of AI in enabling creative expression for individuals with disabilities fosters awareness and enlightenment.
The right to express oneself and to participate in society is a fundamental human right. Denying access to AI tools that enable this expression effectively strips away this right from those who rely on them. In a world where most people take for granted the ability to communicate their thoughts and feelings through writing or art, it is unconscionable to deny these tools to individuals with disabilities, who may have no other means of doing so.
AI as a Transformative Creative Extension
AI for creative expression is not just a matter of convenience — it is necessary for inclusion, dignity, and equality. No one has the right to deprive anyone of the tools that allow them to be heard, seen, and understood. Instead, society is responsible for ensuring that these technologies are accessible to all, fostering a world where everyone, regardless of ability, can share their unique perspectives and contribute to the rich tapestry of human culture.
Equality and Inclusion through Technology
Acknowledging the legitimate concerns of artists, authors, and musicians who fear AI could rob them of their livelihoods and cost the local (Australian) music industry $519 million in the next three years is an obvious concern. Yet, they still consider AI “heartless,” unable “to stir the soul,” and can never approximate human emotions. It could be argued that, in this case, these fears often stem from misunderstandings about the role of AI in the creative process. In its current form, AI should never be seen as a replacement for the beautiful essence of human creativity; instead, it stands as a powerful tool that can elevate and expand the horizons of artistic expression.
“It might be possible for ‘intelligence’ to be ‘artificial’ but most music is driven by the heart, not the head, and I don’t think artificial feelings can stir the soul” — Missy Higgins.
I agree with Missy Higgins on this point. Not only because I have been a massive fan since I first saw her but also because I feel that artists shouldn’t worry that AI might diminish the value of their human-created art. Recognising that AI lacks the lived experiences, emotions, and personal histories that infuse human art with depth and resonance is crucial. AI can generate patterns, mimic styles, and even produce works that appear emotionally charged, but it does so based on data and algorithms, not from a place of genuine feeling or insight. The unique human capacity to create art that reflects personal struggles, joys, and perspectives remains untouched by AI, as no machine can replicate the nuances of human consciousness.
Collaboration, Not Replacement: The Role of AI
Moreover, AI’s role in the arts should be complementary rather than competitive. It can inspire new ideas, help overcome creative blocks, and provide new ways to experiment with form and content. For those with disabilities, AI can be an essential enabler, offering them the means to participate in creative fields that might otherwise be closed to them. Rather than fearing AI, artists could view it as a tool that democratises creativity, allowing more people to engage in artistic practices and contributing to a more diverse and vibrant cultural landscape.
What, then, do artists truly have to fear? The fear should not be of AI itself, but of a world where access to these tools is restricted, where only a select few can leverage technology to enhance their creativity. By embracing AI as a tool that empowers rather than replaces, we can ensure that the arts continue flourishing, enriched by the contributions of all, including those who may rely on AI to express their innermost thoughts and emotions. Instead of being threatened by AI, artists can lead in shaping how these technologies are used, ensuring they amplify human creativity rather than diminish it.
The challenges posed by ableism and systemic marginalisation often result in disabled individuals and other underrepresented communities being overlooked in political discourse and legislative processes. This oversight can be attributed to various factors, including the dominance of normative frameworks that prioritise the needs and concerns of the majority population and a lack of direct representation and advocacy at policy-making levels. Political capital frequently hinges on appealing to perceived electoral majorities, which can sideline the issues pertinent to marginalised groups.
Broadening Perspectives: The Curb-Cut Effect
The “curb-cut effect” clearly illustrates how seemingly targeted interventions for specific communities can generate widespread benefits Blackwell, 2016). Originally designed to assist individuals with mobility impairments, curb cuts underscore the principle of universal design, where accommodations for one group inevitably facilitate accessibility for all. Policymakers can foster a more inclusive approach by framing legislative proposals through the lens of the curb-cut effect, thereby recognising the interconnectedness of societal needs. This essential shift can catalyse significant changes in political consciousness, leading to the integration of inclusive practices within governance frameworks and policy initiatives.
The marginalisation of disabled individuals and other underserved communities in legislative processes often reflects systemic biases and entrenched power dynamics that prioritise majority interests or resonate with dominant narratives (Chakraborty et al., 2023). This exclusion persists despite overt commitments from politicians during electoral campaigns, arising from a combination of factors: the perceived electoral advantage of appealing to broader, less nuanced concerns (more on this below), reliance on conventional frameworks for policy evaluation, and the failure to integrate experiential knowledge from marginalised groups into decision-making processes.
Highlighting the curb-cut effect illustrates how universal design principles can yield wide-ranging societal benefits. This extends beyond assisting individuals with disabilities; curb cuts enhance mobility for pedestrians with strollers, those in a hurry, and even delivery personnel. By addressing the needs of marginalised populations, policies can produce ancillary benefits that resonate with a broader constituency, challenging conventional aversion to inclusion.
This effect underscores the potential for advocacy to recalibrate public discourse in the context of opposition to technologies such as AI. Advocates who promote frameworks that consider the ramifications of AI for marginalised communities can elucidate ethical implications while revealing how inclusive policies enhance technological integration for the wider population. Harnessing the curb-cut effect may inform campaign strategies that advocate for inclusive legislative processes, ultimately shaping policy formation to account for diverse societal needs while demonstrating tangible benefits across demographics.
The dialogue surrounding the potential drawbacks of artificial intelligence often sidelines the substantial advantages it can bring, particularly for disabled and neurodiverse communities. AI applications such as Goblin Tools and Glean empower these groups to participate more fully in daily activities that traditional systems may inadequately accommodate. For instance, AI-powered smart home solutions enable individuals with disabilities to manage their environments independently, reflecting a level of autonomy many non-disabled individuals may take for granted. Tools like Be My Eyes and Claude also offer essential photo descriptions for blind or visually impaired users, while platforms such as RogerVoice and Otter transcribe conversations for the deaf and hard of hearing (Reed Global, 2023; BBC Worklife, 2023).
Historical Context of Assistive Technologies
Historically, many technologies initially designed to assist individuals with disabilities have transcended their original purpose, breaking into general use due to their universal benefits. This phenomenon, often called the “curb-cut effect,” emphasises that innovations to improve accessibility can ultimately enrich society. For example, initially intended for individuals with mobility impairments, ramps have become indispensable for parents with prams and anyone carrying heavy items (Reed Global, 2023). Similarly, closed captioning, which began as a lifeline for the deaf and hard of hearing, is now embraced by non-native speakers and those in noisy environments (Mervosh, 2018).
1. Braille (1824): Developed for the visually impaired, this tactile writing system complements public spaces.
2. Teletypewriter (TTY) (1960s): Developed to facilitate communication for the deaf and hard of hearing, laying the groundwork for modern text messaging systems.
3. Ramps (Ancient Greece, 1970s US): Originally designed for people with mobility impairments, now essential for parents with strollers and others needing easier access.
4. Closed Captioning (1970s): Initially developed for the deaf and hard of hearing, it is now widely used by non-native speakers or those in noisy environments.
5. Text-to-Speech and Speech-to-Text Software (Commercially 1980s-1990s): Evolved from aids for those with visual and speech impairments to tools widely used for multitasking and creating written records.
6. Audiobooks (Early 2000s): Initially created to provide access to literature for the visually impaired, they are now popular among commuters and multitaskers.
7. Voice-Activated Technology (2000s): Systems like Siri and Alexa, created to help physically disabled individuals, now serve as convenient tools for everyone.
8. Remote Work Technologies (2020): Developed to accommodate disabled employees, proving invaluable during the COVID-19 pandemic for all workers.
9. Accessible Websites and Apps (Various): Features like alt text and keyboard navigation improve overall user experience, benefiting everyone.
The Transformative Impact of AI on Accessibility
As we embrace AI and emerging technologies, recognising their potential to promote accessibility and equality for disabled and neurodiverse communities is essential (Lillywhite & Wolbring, 2019). Historical precedents reveal a consistent trend: technologies developed as specialised assistive tools often evolve into vital resources for the broader population (Longley, 2023). The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the crucial role of remote work technologies, which, while initially crafted for employees with disabilities, provided vital flexibility for all (Longley, 2023). This serves as a poignant reminder that inclusive design nurtures equitable opportunities throughout the workforce.
Risks of Neglecting Inclusive Design
1. Plastic Straw Bans: Hastily implemented plastic straw bans to reduce environmental waste, overlooking the needs of individuals with disabilities who rely on them for safe and independent drinking. Alternatives like metal or paper straws only sometimes meet these needs due to flexibility, durability, and safety issues.
2. AI in Employment and Social Services: AI systems used in recruitment and social services can perpetuate discrimination against people with disabilities if they are based on biased data sets. These systems may inadvertently exclude qualified candidates with disabilities or deny them benefits, highlighting the need for inclusive AI development and regulation.
3. Public Transportation Policies: In some regions, public transportation policies have failed to consider accessibility needs, resulting in difficult or impossible systems for individuals with disabilities to use. This oversight can limit their independence and access to employment and social opportunities.
For example, in the UK in 2019, a disabled woman, Elena Struthers-Gardner, died after falling onto a metal straw that punctured her eye and brain due to her scoliosis. This incident highlighted the potential risk of using rigid metal straws, particularly for people with certain disabilities or conditions.
The shift from plastic to metal straws was primarily driven by growing environmental concerns rather than a politically motivated act. However, the speed and manner of implementation in some areas could be seen as politically influenced due to the following factors:
1. Environmental Concerns: The primary catalyst for the ban on plastic straws was the increasing awareness of the environmental impact of single-use plastics. Plastics, including straws, were highlighted as major pollutants, particularly in oceans, contributing to marine life’s death and ecosystems’ degradation. The haunting image of a sea turtle struggling with a plastic straw stuck in its nostril became a powerful symbol for the movement to reduce plastic waste.
2. Governmental and Corporate Pressure: As public awareness and activism grew, governments and corporations faced increasing pressure to address plastic pollution. Some jurisdictions enacted bans or restrictions on single-use plastics, including straws, to demonstrate commitment to environmental sustainability. In some cases, these decisions were made rapidly to meet public demand or to align with broader environmental goals.
3. Political Climate: Plastic pollution became a rallying point for environmental groups and politicians looking to demonstrate their commitment to environmental issues. This created a political climate where swift action on plastic straws was seen as a relatively easy and visible way to make a positive environmental impact, even if the overall effect on plastic pollution was modest, as straws only account for less than 1% of total ocean plastic pollution, with larger items like fishing gear, plastic bags, and bottles being more significant contributors.
4. Social Media Amplification: Social media platforms amplified the narrative, with well-meaning individuals and organisations sharing the turtle video and related content. The simplicity of the message made it easy to rally support for straw bans, even though it did not address the broader systemic issues of plastic production, waste management, and recycling.
An election is coming. Universal peace is declared, and the foxes have a sincere interest in prolonging the lives of the poultry. George Eliot
5. Resulting Policies: The widespread attention led to policy changes, including bans on plastic straws in various regions. While these bans were a step toward reducing single-use plastics, some critics argued that they were more symbolic than substantive, diverting attention from more significant sources of plastic pollution.
Nihil de nobis, sine nobis, or Nothing About Us, Without Us!
Disability rights activists in modern times have reclaimed this slogan from its original usage in 16th-century Poland and Hungary during their struggles for political autonomy.
Conclusion: Embracing AI for a More Inclusive Future
Expressing concerns about AI’s impact is valid, yet it is equally vital to champion its potential to enhance accessibility for disabled and neurodiverse communities. By learning from history, we can embrace the understanding that technologies starting as specialised aids can yield profound benefits for society.
Moving forward, it is imperative to prioritise inclusive design and policy-making, ensuring that diverse needs are considered so that all individuals have equal opportunities and access. By thoughtfully integrating AI, we can cultivate an environment that boosts productivity while nurturing a more inclusive and supportive society for everyone.
References
BBC Worklife. (2023). The AI tools help disabled people find work. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20230509-the-ai-tools-helping-disabled-people-find-work
Blackwell, A. G. (2016). The Curb-Cut Effect. Stanford Social Innovation Review, 15(1), 28–33. https://doi.org/10.48558/YVMS-CC96
Chakraborty, N., Mishra, Y., Bhattacharya, R., & Bhattacharya, B. (2023). Artificial Intelligence: The road ahead for the accessibility of persons with Disability. Materials Today: Proceedings, 80, 3757–3761. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matpr.2021.07.374
Lillywhite, A., & Wolbring, G. (2019). Coverage of ethics within the artificial intelligence and machine learning academic literature: The case of disabled people. Assistive Technology, 33(3), 129–135. https://doi.org/10.1080/10400435.2019.1593259
Longley, R. (2023). What is the curb-cut effect? ThoughtCo. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/curb-cut-effect-4172615
Mervosh, S. (2018, July 19). Starbucks to eliminate plastic straws by 2020. The New York Times. Retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2018/07/09/business/starbucks-plastic-straws.html
Reed Global. (2023). How AI is improving accessibility for people with disabilities. Retrieved from https://www.reedglobal.com/blog/2023/03/how-ai-is-improving-accessibility-for-people-with-disabilities
