Accessibility

published in the Republican July 2020

Accessibility is an important factor for the rights of disabled individuals because equal access and opportunities often require some type of accommodation.  Also, accommodations can be necessary for people with disabilities to be independent in their own homes and communities.

Accessibility is a local issue because it deals with many factors.  This can be analogized to the words of former Speaker of the House Tip O’Neil that “all politics are local.”  Some examples of accommodations under the Americans With Disabilities Act are things such as public places, accessible transportation and making streets and sidewalks safe.

There is always room for improvement, such as incentives for businesses to become more accessible.  Another big issue is communication accessibility, from sign language interpreters, written materials and finding ways to ensure that everyone is getting necessary information.  With this being an election year, it is essential for people to ensure that polling places are accessible because everybody’s vote counts.

We often forget how important accessibility is for people with disabilities to be independent and fully participate in everyday life.