What is accessibility?

Let’s clear up a persistent myth in web development: accessibility is not just about disability. It’s not a checkbox for screen reader support. It’s not a side project for “later.” And it’s definitely not a special mode for a special group.

Accessibility is about making websites that actually work — for everyone. That includes people with disabilities, sure, but also people on old phones, slow networks, unfamiliar browsers, small screens, bad lighting, or just having a bad day. Accessibility means removing obstacles for anyone who shows up, however they show up.

That starts with semantic HTML — not because it’s trendy, but because it’s predictable. Add minimal CSS to keep it clear, and vanilla JavaScript so the essentials don’t vanish when the scripts fail.

The rules aren’t secrets. They’ve been written down. WCAG exists for a reason. So does WAI-ARIA. But those don’t matter if your markup is an obstacle course and your interface needs a walkthrough.

A well-built site loads fast, works everywhere, and doesn’t punish users for showing up “wrong.” That’s not compliance. That’s competence.

Accessibility isn’t a nice-to-have. It’s the difference between a site that serves people, and one that shrugs.