Social Media Accessibility

Aligned with ADA Title II (2024) & WCAG 2.1 Level AA

Accessible social media ensures that all users—including individuals with disabilities—can engage with University content. As a public institution, our content must align with WCAG 2.1 Level AA.

Accessibility should be built into every post—not added afterward.

Core Principles (WCAG 2.1)

• Perceivable – Content must be presented in ways users can perceive (e.g., alt text, captions)
• Operable – Users must be able to navigate and interact with content
• Understandable - Content must be clear and predictable
• Robust – Content must work with assistive technologies

Best Practices with WCAG Alignment

Images

• Add meaningful alt text
  → WCAG 1.1.1 Non-text Content
• Do not rely on color alone
  → WCAG 1.4.1 Use of Color
• Ensure sufficient contrast
  → WCAG 1.4.3 Contrast (Minimum)

Video

• Provide accurate captions
  → WCAG 1.2.2 Captions (Prerecorded)
• Avoid flashing content
  → WCAG 2.3.1 Three Flashes or Below Threshold

Text & Formatting

• Use clear, readable language
  → WCAG 3.1.5 Reading Level
  
  
• Use structured, readable content
  → WCAG 1.3.1 Info and Relationships
  
  

Links & Calls to Action

• Use descriptive link text
  → WCAG 2.4.4 Link Purpose (In Context)
  
  

Quick Rule of Thumb

If someone:

• Can’t see the image
  
  
• Can’t hear the video
  
  
• Uses a screen reader

Can they still understand your post? If not, revise before publishing