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Writer's picture Denise Vasquez

Dear Abled People: Stop Blaming Inaccessibility On Wheelchairs

Updated: Oct 2


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 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?


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 access to places.


What stops people from going places is the fact that places ignore the ADA law when it comes to having equally accessible places outdoors!


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:

I trust that my research, area exploration, and personal experience sharing have been beneficial! I initiated this project in 2017. Through my journey, I have come to realize the importance of revisiting locations multiple times to provide updated information. This not only benefits me but also aids individuals with disabilities, the elderly, or those with limited mobility. Moreover, it helps raise awareness among trail users and park staff.


If you appreciate my blog and find the content in my blogs, TikToks, and YouTube videos useful, you can show your support for my project by making a donation. Any amount is welcome as every contribution, no matter how small, is valuable. Sustaining this project requires significant investments of time, money, and effort. I have poured my heart, soul, and resources into it, and the knowledge that my work is creating an impact motivates me to continue. Your donation will assist in funding my time, research, planning, travel, gas, accommodation, scouting, photography, memory cards, hard drives, and the creation of content shared in YouTube videos, blogs, Instagram posts, TikToks, and more.


Thank you for backing The Disabled Photographer Project! If you wish to contribute, you can make a donation here:



The project is also currently seeking partnerships, sponsors, grants, and ambassadorships. For inquiries contact Denise Vasquez denisevasquezphotography@gmail.com


If you are considering hiring me for consultations, photography, content creation, workshops, or panels, please don't hesitate to reach out via the contact form on my website.


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