I so wish there was a number to call. It's ridiculous how much work we have to put in constantly to justify our existence in the first place and then to be able to even try to get the same access as everyone else. And when we fight or ask for what we deserve, people tell us we're being too angry and say we're supposed to be happy the ADA even exists 🤦♀️ The university I went to used the "it's historic" excuse when I went there for why they couldn't do anything about the stairs. Eventually they put in lifts but that one in particular really grinds my gears.
It’s just awful, especially after so many many years. I think it’s a form of gaslighting to tell people they should just be happy the ADA exists. It’s a way of denying all the persistent problems with access and equity for disabled people and refusing to see and address these issues.
Fighting does take a LOT of work. People expect so much from us. I recently visited a major venue and had such ridiculous issues with accessibility that it was borderline comical. At some point humor has to be a coping mechanism. I wrote a letter to their staff and am waiting a reply. I doubt I'll get one but once I give them ample time to respond, I hope to share it here. I genuinely don't think able bodied people understand how exhausting all of this is. Just to participate in society.
Thanks for the writing you are doing. I'm a new follower but I appreciate it so much.
Thanks so much Jess! It really means a lot that you enjoy my writing! Helps me to stay motivated to keep going!
Agree that humor is a necessity, as is speaking up when we can (and have the energy to do so). Would love to see your complaint letter. I hope they do respond, but I understand keeping your expectations low. I do the same and am pleasantly surprised when I get a response to such complaints.
Hi, Kelly. Another great read! Once again I admire the way you season the bad news with little dashes of humor. (The ... "and hard objects" made me smile this time.) I know discrimination is no laughing matter, though. Keep keeping on, and keeping your sunny side up, in spite of it all. The Rock isn't a patch on you!
This is sort of right there with, "Just sue them!" With which magical lawyer and what imaginary money? Thanks, Kelly. xo
I so wish there was a number to call. It's ridiculous how much work we have to put in constantly to justify our existence in the first place and then to be able to even try to get the same access as everyone else. And when we fight or ask for what we deserve, people tell us we're being too angry and say we're supposed to be happy the ADA even exists 🤦♀️ The university I went to used the "it's historic" excuse when I went there for why they couldn't do anything about the stairs. Eventually they put in lifts but that one in particular really grinds my gears.
It’s just awful, especially after so many many years. I think it’s a form of gaslighting to tell people they should just be happy the ADA exists. It’s a way of denying all the persistent problems with access and equity for disabled people and refusing to see and address these issues.
Fighting does take a LOT of work. People expect so much from us. I recently visited a major venue and had such ridiculous issues with accessibility that it was borderline comical. At some point humor has to be a coping mechanism. I wrote a letter to their staff and am waiting a reply. I doubt I'll get one but once I give them ample time to respond, I hope to share it here. I genuinely don't think able bodied people understand how exhausting all of this is. Just to participate in society.
Thanks for the writing you are doing. I'm a new follower but I appreciate it so much.
Thanks so much Jess! It really means a lot that you enjoy my writing! Helps me to stay motivated to keep going!
Agree that humor is a necessity, as is speaking up when we can (and have the energy to do so). Would love to see your complaint letter. I hope they do respond, but I understand keeping your expectations low. I do the same and am pleasantly surprised when I get a response to such complaints.
Hi, Kelly. Another great read! Once again I admire the way you season the bad news with little dashes of humor. (The ... "and hard objects" made me smile this time.) I know discrimination is no laughing matter, though. Keep keeping on, and keeping your sunny side up, in spite of it all. The Rock isn't a patch on you!
Thank you Mary—humor is definitely a vital coping mechanism!
I really appreciate your writing, particularly your candor with the toll these struggles take on you.
Thanks so much Amber 🙏