A visually impaired woman has taken legal action against a company, alleging that its website is inaccessible to individuals with disabilities. On February 3, 2026, Ashley Bahena filed a class-action complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against Auraglow LLC. The lawsuit accuses Auraglow of failing to make its website accessible to blind and visually impaired users, thereby violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Ashley Bahena, who requires screen-reading software to access digital content due to her visual impairment, claims that Auraglow’s website is not designed or maintained in a way that allows for independent use by individuals like herself. According to Bahena, the website lacks essential features such as alternative text for images and keyboard navigation capabilities, which are necessary for screen-reader users. This lack of accessibility prevents visually impaired individuals from fully participating in online commerce and accessing goods and services offered by Auraglow.
Bahena’s complaint highlights several specific barriers she encountered while attempting to purchase teeth-whitening products from Auraglow’s website. These include ambiguous link texts, inaccurate alt-text on graphics, and interactive elements without proper labels or state announcements. As a result of these barriers, Bahena was unable to complete her intended purchase independently and had to rely on sighted assistance.
The lawsuit seeks a permanent injunction requiring Auraglow to modify its website policies and practices to ensure compliance with ADA standards for web accessibility. Additionally, Bahena is seeking compensatory damages for herself and other class members who have experienced discrimination due to the website’s inaccessibility. The case underscores the importance of web accessibility as an integral part of equal opportunity and independent living for individuals with disabilities.
Representing Bahena in this legal battle is Alison Chan from Equal Access Law Group, PLLC. The case has been assigned Case No.: 1:26-cv-1212 in front of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.
Source: 126cv01212_Ashley_Bahena_v_Auraglow_Complaint_Northern_District_of_Illinois.pdf
