In a landmark case that could reshape digital accessibility standards, Haron Cole has filed a class action lawsuit against Sepm Marketing, Inc. in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on January 27, 2025. The complaint accuses Sepm Marketing of failing to make its website, Stationeryxpress.com, accessible to visually impaired users, thus violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Haron Cole, who is legally blind and requires screen-reading software to navigate websites, alleges that Sepm Marketing's website contains significant access barriers that prevent him and others from fully utilizing its services. According to the complaint, these barriers include missing alternative text for images, improper labeling of interactive elements, and navigation issues that make it impossible for visually impaired users to complete transactions independently. Cole asserts that such design flaws deny him equal access to goods and services offered by Sepm Marketing through their online platform.
The lawsuit highlights the broader implications of digital accessibility in an increasingly internet-dependent world. Cole emphasizes the critical need for accessible websites as visually impaired individuals often face mobility challenges that make online shopping more convenient than visiting physical stores. Despite available technologies that can facilitate web accessibility—such as alternative text descriptions and keyboard navigable interfaces—Sepm Marketing allegedly relies on an exclusively visual interface.
Cole seeks a permanent injunction mandating changes in Sepm Marketing’s policies to ensure their website becomes accessible to blind and visually-impaired consumers. Additionally, he demands compensatory damages for unlawful discrimination experienced by himself and other class members due to these accessibility barriers.
Representing Cole is attorney David Reyes from Asher Cohen Law PLLC. The case is being heard under Case No.: 1:25-cv-872 in front of judges at the Northern District of Illinois court.