cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/45437770

I've been thinking a lot about the Fediverse ALT issue.

Some people are annoyed by posts without Alttext, & others get reminded¹ to add it.

The core question is: How can we improve accessibility?

Proposal:
☑️ Add a user filter to hide media posts without AltTag
☑️ Reduced engagement on hidden posts would encourage adding Alt text
☑️ People who need accessibility wouldn't have to encounter unlabeled media

If this gets traction, I'll open a Mastodon GitHub issue (maybe on others too?).

¹ https://mastodon.social/@madeindex/113996311493021102

With just how many posts don't have alt-text, the feed may get to look quite empty.

This, in turn, would drive many off the Fediverse altogether, as it will be seen as a dead place.

Besides, we are not at the level of popularity where we can afford to exclude any creators.

Just my humble opinion

But you're willing to sacrifice those with accessibility requirements?

No, I just don't think enforcement is good at this stage of platform development.

I do support adding alt-text!