In a groundbreaking lawsuit that could reshape online accessibility standards, Morgan Cole has filed a class action complaint against House of Mana Up, LLC. The complaint was lodged in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on March 25, 2025. Cole, who is visually impaired and legally blind, accuses House of Mana Up of failing to make its website accessible to individuals with disabilities, thereby violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Morgan Cole's lawsuit highlights significant barriers faced by visually impaired users on Houseofmanaup.com. According to the complaint, the website lacks essential features such as alternative text for images and proper navigation tools compatible with screen-reading software like JAWS. These omissions prevent blind users from independently accessing and purchasing products offered by House of Mana Up. "Plaintiff was denied a shopping experience like that of a sighted individual due to the Website’s lack of features," states the complaint. The lawsuit emphasizes that despite readily available technology and established guidelines for web accessibility, House of Mana Up has not taken steps to ensure its website is usable by all consumers.
The legal filing further outlines how these accessibility barriers have led to discrimination against visually impaired individuals under both state and federal law. By maintaining an exclusively visual interface, House of Mana Up effectively excludes blind customers from participating in the digital marketplace—a violation of their civil rights under Title III of the ADA. The complaint seeks not only compensatory damages but also a permanent injunction requiring House of Mana Up to modify its website policies and practices to comply with ADA standards.
Cole's legal team argues that this case is about more than just one individual's struggle; it represents a systemic issue affecting millions across the country. "The Internet has become a significant source for conducting business," notes the filing, stressing that equal access is crucial for independent living and full participation in society. As part of their relief sought, plaintiffs are demanding punitive damages and attorney fees alongside an order certifying this case as a class action.
Representing Morgan Cole is David B. Reyes from Equal Access Law Group, PLLC, who specializes in disability rights litigation. The case is presided over by judges at the Northern District Court under Case No.: 1:25-cv-3153.