Sylinia Jackson v. Renaissance Jewelry New York, Inc.

Case Summary

According to the complaint, Sylinia Jackson, a visually-impaired individual, is suing Renaissance Jewelry New York, Inc. for failing to make its website, www.jewelili.com, accessible to blind users. The plaintiff alleges that the website contains numerous barriers that prevent her from accessing products and services, violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and related New York laws. Jackson seeks a permanent injunction requiring the defendant to improve website accessibility and compensatory damages for the discrimination faced. The complaint highlights the importance of web accessibility for individuals with disabilities and the ongoing issues faced by blind consumers.

Causes of Action

• Violations of the ADA
• Violations of the NYSHRL
• Violations of the NYCHRL
• Violation of GBL § 349

Key Allegations

• Defendant's website is not accessible to blind and visually-impaired persons.
• Plaintiff encountered multiple access barriers preventing her from purchasing products.
• Defendant has failed to comply with WCAG 2.0 guidelines.

Requested Relief

• A preliminary and permanent injunction to prohibit Defendant from violating the ADA and related laws.
• Compensatory damages for violations of civil rights under New York laws.
• Reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs.

Proposed Class

All legally blind individuals in the United States who have attempted to access Defendant’s Website and as a result have been denied access to the equal enjoyment of goods and services offered by Defendant’s Website, during the relevant statutory period.

Jurisdiction & Venue

The Court has subject-matter jurisdiction under 28 U.S.C. § 1331 and 42 U.S.C. § 12181, as Plaintiff’s claims arise under Title III of the ADA and related state laws.