The fact that a person sitting in a #wheelchair is the International #Symbol of #Accessibility should make it clear, that a wheelchair gives a #disabled person like me #Access!
The definition of a wheelchair under the ADA is as follows:
"A wheelchair is a manually operated or power-driven device designed primarily for use by an individual with a mobility #disability for the main purpose of indoor, or of both indoor and outdoor locomotion. Individuals with #mobility disabilities must be permitted to use wheelchairs and manually powered mobility aids ie walkers, crutches, canes, braces, or other similar devices designed for use by individuals with mobility disabilities, in any areas open to pedestrian traffic."
Unfortunately, abled people are still blaming disabled people and their wheelchairs for not doing things like going #outdoors.
I just saw a post by @Winnebagoaccessibilityrvs on #Instagram asking "Do you let your wheelchair hold you back from #traveling?"
Wait, What? Do I let my wheelchair hold me back from traveling?
I got really offended by this post & thought to myself "SERIOUSLY?" then I took a deep breath in & exhaled slowly while I thought about why it bothered me. Then I posted my response:
A wheelchair doesn't hold someone back, on the contrary, a wheelchair gives disabled people like me #access to #places when I can't stand or walk!
What stops people from going places is the fact that places ignore the #ADA #law when it comes to having equally accessible places outdoors!
The post by @Winnebagoaccessibilityrvs really bothers me because I've face many #challenges getting around when I'm unable to stand & walk for long periods of time. I had to beg my doctor to request a wheelchair for me & my lawyer had to fight to get it approved.
Having a wheelchair gives me access to doing things like grocery shopping, going outdoors & traveling!
Sometimes speaking up can make a difference & it always feel great when it does!
@Winnebagoaccessibilityrvs responded to my posts and they also apologized! I appreciate them for their acknowledgement, understanding & support for disabled people like me & The Disabled Photographer Project:
*If you'd like to make a contribution to The Disabled Photographer Project, you can help support the project by making a donation Here:
The project is also currently seeking #partnerships, #sponsors, #grants, and #ambassadorships. For inquiries contact Denise Vasquez denisevasquezphotography@gmail.com
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