Disability Pride Month Final Requests
Okay so now that we are making eye contact, and respecting my wishes for assistance or not, it’s time to talk about ableism.
If you live in an able body, this is likely something that you’ve never been made to contend with. But the world is designed for people who walk and people who stand. It’s also designed for people who have the ability to reach or bend down without risk. (again, I am not speaking for all disabled humans, I am only speaking about my experience here…)
If you know or care about someone who is disabled, there are a few specific thoughts that I would like to offer.
1. Be up for changing plans. In the not so distant past, and in unfamiliar territory, I had to try to gain access to THREE restaurants before finding one that I could actually enter comfortably. Fortunately, I was with friends who were willing to accompany me on this journey and made the issue about access NOT my body. At one time, I might’ve made this entirely about me, but I’m now able to see that it is about accessibility. And right now, inclusive design and accessibility aren’t always considered. I have to be willing to change my plans. Please be willing to change yours with me.
2. Let me know what I’m getting myself into. Are we meeting in a place that has a ramp? Does it have stairs and will it require a little bit of walking? Will I need to stand for a long period of time? Are there chairs widely available? Is this place crowded? Is there room for me and my mobility aids? Do I need to have fully functional arms and legs to enjoy where we are meeting? Or what we’re doing?
It’s not your job to decide for me whether or not I join you in a social setting, but it is greatly appreciated when I feel supported in doing the more difficult, braver thing and put myself into the world.
3. Identify and recognize ableism as you see it. Join me in my frustration. I recently stayed in a hotel that was labeled “accessible,” and it had a step to access the bathroom. I can take a step right now, but on no planet is that accessible. That is total BS.
Being a disabled person can sometimes feel isolating, and support & solidarity from those around me matters.
