In a world where science communication is predominantly visual, it’s easy for certain individuals to feel left out. Richard S. Schifreen, a 70-plus-year-old retired chemist and avid photographer from Madison, Wisconsin, shares a deeply personal story, highlighting the profound impact of recent accessibility initiatives within scientific publications.
A Chemist’s Unique Vision
Richard’s journey with color perception has been anything but ordinary. Though not completely color blind, his inability to interpret colors like most has been a lifelong challenge. Despite it all, he turned his uniqueness into artistry, creating photographs that others admire for their vibrant and ‘normal’ color hues. Still, navigating through visuals in scientific communication remained a challenge, until now.
The Breakthrough: Science Made Accessible
In the March 17, 2025, issue of Chemical & Engineering News (C&EN), Richard found a glimmer of hope. The article “Working with Color,” part of ACS’s “Making Science Visually Accessible,” was a revelation. It offered guidelines specifically tailored to individuals with color vision differences, making science more inclusive than ever before. As Richard expressed, “For over 60 years, I’ve made do with whatever difficulties I have with color vision. Your feature is the only time in 60-plus years that I’ve ever seen an attempt to accommodate people like me.”
A Sincere Thank You
Gratitude poured from Richard’s heart for ACS and C&EN, acknowledging the initiative’s potential to bridge the gap for countless individuals like him. According to C&EN, such measures are a significant leap towards inclusive science communication. Richard’s story resonates deeply with those who face similar challenges, serving as a beacon of hope.
Inspiring Change in Science Communication
Richard’s tale isn’t just a personal anecdote; it’s a testament to the transformative power of inclusive practices. As scientific communities strive to reach wider audiences, initiatives like these set the groundwork for a more diverse and engaged community.
Join the Conversation
Feel inspired by Richard’s story? Engage with the discussion, share your experiences, or submit your thoughts to the editor. This isn’t just a conversation about accessibility—it’s a movement towards inclusive innovation in science communication. Let’s continue to build bridges, one story at a time.
Join us as we pave the way for a future where science is not only seen but felt and understood by everyone.
