A visually impaired individual has filed a class action lawsuit against a major online retailer, alleging that the company’s website is inaccessible to blind and visually impaired users. Sandra Ford filed the complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on February 24, 2026, against Weezie, Inc.
Ford, who requires screen-reading software to access digital content, claims that Weezie’s website fails to provide necessary accommodations for visually impaired individuals. According to the complaint, this lack of accessibility violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which mandates equal access to goods and services for individuals with disabilities. The lawsuit highlights several barriers encountered by Ford while attempting to navigate and make purchases on Weezie’s website. These include issues such as inadequate alternative text for images, inaccessible drop-down menus, and elements requiring mouse interaction rather than keyboard navigation.
The complaint argues that these barriers prevent blind and visually impaired users from enjoying full participation in online commerce. “Defendant’s denial of full and equal access to its Website…is a violation of Ford’s rights under the ADA,” states the filing. It further emphasizes that accessible technology is readily available and used by other retailers but has not been implemented by Weezie.
Ford seeks a permanent injunction requiring Weezie to modify its website policies and practices to ensure accessibility for visually impaired consumers. Additionally, she requests compensatory damages for herself and other class members who have faced discrimination due to these accessibility barriers.
The case underscores broader concerns about digital accessibility as an increasing number of transactions move online. With over 8 million visually impaired individuals in the U.S., including approximately 260,000 in Illinois alone, ensuring web accessibility is crucial for equitable access to digital marketplaces.
Representing Ford is Alison Chan from Equal Access Law Group, PLLC. The case is presided over by judges at the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois under Case No.: 1:26-cv-2070.
Source: 126cv02070_Sandra_Ford_v_Weezie_Complaint_Northern_District_of_Illinois.pdf