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Glossary

POUR

Short Definition
POUR in the context of accessibility refers to the four core principles that guide the creation of inclusive digital content: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust. These principles are the foundation of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and ensure that websites and applications can be used by everyone, including people with disabilities.
Relevance
POUR is important to Black, Indigenous, and Disability Justice communities because it offers a starting point for accessibility that prioritizes inclusion and usability across diverse bodies and experiences. While it provides a foundational framework, it is not a complete solution; true accessibility must also be shaped by lived experience, cultural context, and collective care practices.
Additional Notes
When designing a digital toolkit, applying POUR means ensuring that: – Perceivable: All text has high contrast, and images include alt text. – Operable: All navigation is accessible via keyboard, not just mouse. – Understandable: Instructions use plain language and avoid jargon. – Robust: The content works across assistive technologies and browsers. Critiques & Considerations While POUR provides helpful structure, it can feel limited when not expanded through intersectional and community-informed approaches. For example, POUR doesn’t explicitly account for trauma-informed design or collective access, which are central to many Disability Justice frameworks.
This is a 2023–2025 project led by InterAccess, in collaboration with Tangled Art + Disability, and FEZIHAUS™.