Today I would like to speak about Disablism or what keeps individuals with disabilities more dependent on others, the system and basically subservient, from my perspective.
If I were to say to you I am more or less disabled depending on where I am, would that make sense to you? Let's start off with where I am the least disabled:
In my home, I feel I am the most able bodied. Architecturally the home is wheelchair accessible and quad friendly. Starting from the parking area, sidewalk to the door, automated lock and automated door opener. Hardwood floors, lowered light switches, voice controlled environmental system (lights, locks, security cameras, telephone etc.). Once in my permobil 500 wheelchair, I am the most able bodied I will ever be, I am a 10 on the scale.
Outside my home I never know if that rating will drop to a zero. Will there be accessible parking? Will there be curb cuts? Will there be one step? forget automated doors.... Will someone be able to let me in?
The way homes and businesses are architecturally designed creates barriers for myself and others like me. I am more or less disabled as much due to poor design, as my spinal cord injury.
It is my hope that reading this will make everyone want to advocate for universal designs that enabled and empower all individuals equally. Advocate for the most accessible design, do not settle for the bare minimum and most restrictive environment, Demand more, Expect more, and Achieve more.
