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Accessibility needs more access
This started with my reply (repeated in part below) to an August 10, 2018 article by Jamie Hughes, regular MS columnist. In short, Jamie spoke to the importance of unabashed personal advocacy. It was just the push I needed and, now, I hope you, MS Forum readers, can contribute to my crusade with your thoughts, experiences, warnings, and ideas.
Here’s the back story: Just this morning, while at a local coffee shop, my husband and I were discussing the public place barrier limitations to disabled persons. Barriers not addressed by the current accessibility requirements under Title III/ADA public accommodation/commercial facilities. Barriers that exist not just for persons with MS but for all persons with any manner of disability or mobility limitation — whether it be a chronic medical issue or our aging society. I commend the ADA for the advances in removing many structural barriers…but, ‘cmon, that was 28 years ago now. The baby steps were great but it’s time to walk. What was acceptable for access 28 years ago is no longer enough in today’s world of persons with disabilities possessing/desiring far greater independence. In short, I don’t just want to GET to your front door on my own. Rather, whether it be the front door or the restroom door I don’t want to wait for someone to come to my rescue with assistance.
So, here’s my voice, my cause, my crusade. Mandatory installation of an automatic door (i) at the entrance to a business, and (ii) to at least one unisex bathroom.
I welcome ALL comments positive and negative. I want to start mapping out the hurdles, identifying allies, and finding common ground. My wonderful husband gets credit for bugging me for the past year to take this on, and Jamie Hughes gets credit for her article in MS News Today. Whether it was “a sign” or a swift kick in the rear — I have gotten off complacent quiet. I have a voice. I hope you will contribute yours. Thanks.
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