Why Relaxed Dress Codes Can Be a Game-Changer for People with Disabilities

Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) arrives for a vote at the U.S. Capitol May 1, 2023.

In light of the recent changes to the Senate's dress code, as detailed by Axios and Rolling Stone, it's essential to view this shift as more than just a fashion statement. This change, announced by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and reportedly inspired by Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, is a reflection of a reasonable accommodation for someone with a disability.

Sen. Fetterman, who has been candid about his struggles with depression, is protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Changes to dress codes are considered a reasonable accommodation, and this should be seen as a progressive step for the disability community. Societal standards, often set by non-disabled neurotypical individuals, can be both physically and mentally taxing for those with disabilities. As someone with cerebral palsy and fine motor challenges, I can attest to the significant energy and mental effort required to don formal attire. My clothing choices are often a reflection of my energy levels, not my work ethic or capability.

Senator Susan Collins humorously threatened to wear a bikini to work in response to the relaxed dress code. Meanwhile, Senator Schumer officially altered the rules around appropriate attire, instructing the Sergeant at Arms to cease enforcing guidelines requiring business attire on the floor. This change allows lawmakers like Pennsylvania’s John Fetterman to embrace casual clothing without violating protocol. Fetterman's attire has been a part of his image throughout his political career. After taking a medical hiatus to seek treatment for clinical depression, he's chosen comfort over costume. This decision, though not directly referencing Fetterman, has irked some Republicans, leading to criticism of him.

In the disability community, we often use "spoons" as a metaphor to describe our energy consumption. It can take someone with a disability significantly more energy to accomplish the same tasks as our non-disabled counterparts. A strict dress code can be challenging for people with disabilities to maintain consistently. My personal experience of ditching formal wear for the office has resulted in increased energy that I can redirect toward my actual work. Being comfortable allows me to be more relaxed and focused. I applaud Senator Schumer for his recent decision and hope that those opposing this change can learn empathy.

Republicans Are Melting Down Over the Relaxed Senate Dress Code

Snapshots of Service: Pico's Dedication Amidst a Career of Change

Pico stands behind the American flag for his professional portrait at the US Department of Labor

As I sit at my desk, the hum of assistive technology filling the room, I'm reminded of the many challenges and triumphs I've faced as a disability advocate and federal employee. My early days at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) saw me promoting the newly minted Obamacare, a transformative period in our nation's healthcare landscape. Later, at the USPTO, I was fiercely protecting intellectual property, ensuring the sanctity of innovation and creativity. Today, I promote the impactful mission of the U.S. Department of Labor, protecting our nation's workforce.

Yet, amidst these professional milestones, there's been a constant, loyal presence by my side for the past decade - my service dog, Pico.

September marks National Service Dog Month, a time to honor the incredible animals that transform lives daily. Pico, a graduate of Canine Companions®, joined me after my tenure at HHS. As a wheelchair user with a visual impairment, navigating the world can be daunting. But with Pico, every challenge becomes surmountable. His unwavering support, especially in the workplace, has been nothing short of amazing.

Invisible disabilities, like my chronic pain, often go unnoticed. But Pico sees it all. He senses my discomfort, offering solace with a nuzzle or a comforting presence by my side. He's more than just a service dog; he's a confidant, a protector, and a never-ending source of comedy.

Recently, thanks to the talented Shawn Moore, Pico and I had a moment that encapsulated our journey. As the camera clicked, capturing Pico in his full professional glory, I felt a swell of pride. It was a moment of recognition, not just for Pico's service but for every service animal that has made a difference in someone's life.

To Pico, I say, "Thank you." Thank you for your unwavering service, for the moments of joy, and for the challenges we've overcome together. Here's to many more years of partnership, advocacy, and making a difference.

Join me in celebrating National Service Dog Month. Share your stories, honor these incredible animals, and let's continue the conversation on the importance of accessibility and inclusion in every workspace.

Kicking Off STEPtember Fundraising

As we dive into STEPtember, raising money for Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Foundation, I am absolutely blown away by the support we've received. We've just kicked off, and guess what? We've already raised nearly $5,000! This incredible start is all thanks to YOU!

Your enthusiasm, support, and generosity have set an amazing tone for the month ahead. We've taken our first steps together, and with this momentum,
the journey ahead looks even more promising.

A special shoutout to those who've already contributed and spread the word. Your belief in our cause and commitment to making a difference is truly amazing.

Let's keep this energy up and continue to step up for Cerebral Palsy research.

Remember, every step counts, and every donation brings us closer to our goal.
Thank you for being a part of this journey. Here's to a successful STEPtember!

Magic with a Side of Bureaucracy: Navigating Theme Parks and Airlines with Disabilities

Theme Park goers are seen on a rollercoaster

Growing up in sunny California, I was fortunate to be surrounded by some of the world's most iconic theme parks - Disneyland Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Six Flags Magic Mountain. These parks were more than just places of entertainment; they were sanctuaries where I felt included and normal amongst my peers. As someone with multiple disabilities, these visits were moments of liberation where I could feel free to be a kid without being overly self conscious or restrained by disability.

Back in the day, it was standard practice to obtain a visitor's pass from guest services, allowing us to enter from the exit and avoid the long wait times. But times have changed.

Now, Universal is introducing a new protocol. As Michelle Diamentper writes in Disability Scoop, "Starting this week, however, Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood will require that individuals apply for a special card known as the Individual Accessibility Card prior to their visit in order to qualify for an Attraction Assistance Pass." This card, issued by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), requires documentation detailing the type of accommodations requested, at least 48 hours before arrival.

Disney by contrast allows disabled patrons to receive return times in the theme park’s mobile app comparable to the ride’s posted wait time.

While new policies aim to prevent misuse, they inadvertently create additional hurdles for disabled patrons. As Jennifer Shelton told The Wall Street Journal, “It’s just another thing we have to think through when travel is already hard and we’re trying to make it as fun as possible.”

Flying, another aspect of my travels, has its own set of challenges. With Canine Companions® Pico by my side, I've had to navigate the maze of paperwork required by the 2020 update to Air Carrier Access Act. While I pride myself on being organized and adept at bureaucracy, there are days when the energy simply isn't there, especially when I travel. The added burden of paperwork is a reality many disabled individuals face, deterring us from accessing services and entertainment. Open Doors Organization is helping streamlining the process for airline passengers flying with Alaska Airlines and JetBlue, still the added layers can be exhausting when you're already depleted from the stress of travel.

While measures to prevent system abuse are essential, it's crucial to ensure they don't inadvertently make life harder for those genuinely in need. As we advocate for more inclusivity, it's essential to strike the right balance, ensuring everyone has the chance to experience the magic of theme parks and the freedom of travel.

Some Travelers Abused Disability Accommodations. Now Comes the Crackdown

Why ADA Compliance Doesn't Always Mean Accessibility

Wheelchair users are seen in the Rose Garden at the White House as President Biden delivers remarks during an ADA celebration.

For the vast majority of my life I've navigated the intricate maze of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Designed to ensure equal access for all, the ADA has been instrumental in ensuring the rights of disabled people. Yet, in practice, the reality often falls short of the promise. Julie Reiskin, a fellow wheelchair user, captured this sentiment perfectly, telling USA TODAY, "It would be really nice if I could look at a website and have reliable information."

This disparity between expectation and reality isn't just about websites. It extends to physical spaces too. For instance, booking an ADA-compliant hotel room might promise a slightly bigger bathroom, but what's the use if I can't even enter the room due to a heavy door or lack of actuators? This isn't just an inconvenience; it's a barrier that hinders true accessibility.

My personal experiences mirror those of many others in the disability community. Just this summer, I voiced my concerns about a local Starbucks, a place I've frequented for nearly a decade. Their response? They were "in compliance with the ADA." But true access goes beyond mere compliance. Deborah Laufer's journey, involving over 600 cases filed for similar reasons, and now a pending Supreme Court of the U.S. case remarked, "I sometimes ended up sleeping in my car because I could not get an accessible room at a hotel."

The crux of the matter is that the ADA should be viewed as a starting point, not the end goal. True accessibility and inclusion mean going beyond the minimum requirements. As Shira Wakschlag of The Arc of the United States emphasized to Disability Scoop, "ADA testers are essential to ensuring the rights of people with disabilities are enforced and protected."

In our quest for a more inclusive world, let's not just aim for the floor; let's reach for the ceiling. Let's not just be compliant; let's be truly accessible.

Following the Supreme Court overturning of affirmative action earlier this summer, many disability advocates, myself included, expressed concerns about the ADA being next on the chopping block. Sadly, it looks as though our fears were not unfounded.

I invite you to join the conversation, share your experiences, and together, let's push for a world where accessibility is not just a legal requirement but a heartfelt commitment.

'Sleeping in my car.' This Supreme Court case could change how disabled Americans book hotel rooms

Driving Change: The Role of Autonomous Vehicles in Disability Advocacy

Sharon Giovinazzo, CEO of LightHouse, a nonprofit organization for the blind and visually impaired, opens the door of a Waymo autonomous car with her guide dog Pilot in San Francisco on Monday. | Source:Jeremy Chen/The Standar

With the recent news out of California surrounding regulations for autonomous vehicles, I’ve been thinking a lot about the future of transportation and the intersection of independence, safety, and innovation. Autonomous vehicles have the power to be transformative, and their impact and inclusion needs to be assessed from all sides.

The rise of robotaxis in cities like San Francisco has sparked a myriad of opinions. Sharon Giovinazzo, CEO of the nonprofit LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired, told The San Francisco Standard, “It truly has the power to transform lives.”

For many of us with mobility challenges, the promise of a vehicle that doesn't fuss about Canine Companions® Pico or require assistance for boarding is tantalizing. It represents more than just transportation; it's a symbol of independence and choice.

However, my experiences with rideshare companies like Lyft and Uber have not always been smooth. I've faced challenges, from drivers refusing rides because of my service dog to the sheer lack of accessible vehicles. These experiences underscore the need for more inclusive transportation solutions.

Yet, the promise of choice is also fraught with other practical considerations. The California Council of the Blind has voiced concerns about passenger safety, especially for the visually impaired. They believe that the technology needs to advance further to ensure rider safety. As someone who relies heavily on assistive technology, I understand the importance of ensuring that these vehicles are not just innovative but also safe and reliable.

But there's hope on the horizon. Companies like Cruise are actively working on developing wheelchair-accessible vehicles, like the Origin Mobility. This is a step in the right direction, ensuring that the future of transportation is inclusive.

As we stand on the cusp of this transportation revolution, it's crucial to ensure that the voices of the disability community are not just heard but actively included in the conversation. After all, for many of us, it's not just about getting from point A to B; it's about doing so with dignity, independence, and safety.

Let's continue this conversation. What are your thoughts on the rise of robotaxis and their potential impact on the disability community?

Do Robotaxis Benefit People With Disabilities? San Francisco Activists Are Splitng-with-disabilities/

Adaptable, Flexible, Unstoppable: Eddie Ndopu's Message of Hope and Strength

Time Magazine Person of the Week Cover with Eddie Ndopu

In our journey through life, I find myself reflecting on the dual narratives that society often imposes on those with disabilities. On one hand, there's the story of overcoming, of achieving not because of our challenges but in spite of them. On the other, there's the reality we live every day: it's not our disabilities that hinder us, but society's ableist attitudes and approaches.

Eddie Ndopu, a United Nations and disability advocate living with spinal muscular atrophy encapsulates this sentiment perfectly. As he rightly points out in a recent interview with TIME, "disability has been the greatest offering and gift of my life." It's a sentiment I resonate with deeply. Our challenges make us adaptable, flexible, and give us a unique lens through which we view the world.

However, the societal narrative often deviates from this perspective. We're told there's a "standard" way of doing things, and any deviation is seen as "special." Requests for reasonable accommodations or basic access rights are often met with resistance, with claims of high costs or the unfairness of providing for one and not for all. This mindset fails to distinguish between equity and equality. While equality ensures everyone gets the same resources, equity ensures everyone gets the resources they need to succeed. And for those facing challenges, this often means working twice as hard for half the recognition.

The truth is, as Eddie Ndopu highlights, "the more barriers that I have been able to break down, the more barriers have awaited me on the other side." This resonates deeply with me. Despite our accomplishments, we're still faced with systemic inequalities and prejudices. We're often seen as "less than" or "incapable" due to our challenges. But as Eddie and countless others have shown, our challenges can be our greatest strengths.

In many ways, living with disabilities is like playing a never-ending game of whack-a-mole. As soon as one challenge is overcome, another pops up. But it's essential to keep the conversation going. The more we talk about our experiences, advocate for our rights, and normalize these discussions in all spheres of life, the closer we get to a world where challenges, accommodations, and access are seen as standard, not special.

As we continue to advocate, let's remember that our challenges don't define us – they refine us. They make us stronger, more resilient, and more empathetic. And as we push for a more inclusive world, let's celebrate not just our achievements but the unique perspectives and strengths that come with our experiences.

Eddie Ndopu on How Disability Helped Him Rethink Excellence

Challenging Misconceptions: The Power of Reasonable Accommodations in the Workplace

With her guide dog Paul at her side, Maya Larson signs with her boss Darlene Zangara, executive director of the Minnesota Commission of the Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing in St. Paul, Minn. (Glen Stubbe/Star Tribune/TNS)

Today I'm reflecting heavily on the importance of reasonable accommodations in the workplace. These are not preferences or luxuries, but necessities that level the playing field for disabled employees like myself. They are equalizers, not special treatments, and they are as diverse as the individuals who require them.

The process of disclosing a disability and requesting accommodations is fraught with challenges. It's not a step taken lightly. By the time an employee discloses a disability, they've likely exhausted all other options to adapt their work environment independently. As a wheelchair user living with Cerebral Palsy, a service dog handler to Canine Companions® Pico, and someone living with a visual impairment and chronic pain, I can attest to the discomfort and apprehension that comes with this disclosure.

The latest report from the Disability:IN and the Disability Equality Index for 2023 found that only 4-6% of employees openly disclose disability in the workplace, despite 97% of employers encouraging them to do so. This discrepancy could be due to misconceptions about disability and job performance, perceived barriers to upward mobility, or a general misunderstanding about disability overall by the employer.

As highlighted in a recent article on Disability Scoop, Occupational Therapist Elizabeth Duffy put it beautifully. "Duffy said employers can adjust to accommodate different ways of learning and absorbing information. That could include scheduling flexibility and making sure meetings aren’t the only way to deliver updates and announcements to staffers." This is a prime example of how simple accommodations can make a significant difference in an employee's ability to perform their job effectively.

However, the process of requesting and receiving accommodations can often feel adversarial, leaving employees feeling beaten down and less likely to seek further accommodations in the future. This is counterproductive, as it ultimately hampers job performance.

The future of work for disabled employees is promising, with industries expected to grow over the next decade, as highlighted in a recent Forbes article by Diane Winiarski. But this growth must be accompanied by a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and access. Employers must reassess their reasonable accommodation processes and strive for a more inclusive and equitable workplace.

Reasonable accommodations are not an attempt to "gamify" the system. They are a necessity for disabled employees to perform their jobs to the best of their ability. Let's continue to challenge misconceptions, promote understanding, and advocate for a more inclusive workplace.

With More Neurodivergent Workers, Employers Add Support

Motorized Wheelchair User Sets Unofficial Speed Record in Grocery Store

Blurred picture of a wheelchair user in a grocery store.

I'm thrilled to share that my recent story has been published on The Squeaky Wheel, a satirical platform that offers a unique perspective on disability news. This time, we're diving into an amusing incident inspired by real-world experiences that unfolded in a small town grocery store.

Imagine this: you're in your motorized wheelchair, zipping down the cereal aisle of your local grocery store. You're focused, you're efficient, and you're fast. So fast, in fact, that you've unofficially set a speed record, causing a literal Kellogg Company frosted flake flurry in your wake. But not everyone is amused. A retired schoolteacher, known for his acute observations, is caught off guard. He challenges you, asking if you have a license for your wheelchair. You can't help but chuckle at the absurdity. After all, last you checked, shopping for General Mills Cheerios wasn’t a licensable activity.

Believe it or not, wheelchair users hear such commentary daily.

This story, and all of The Squeaky Wheel, serves as a reminder that disability can be, and is, funny. It's a part of our everyday lives, and humor helps us navigate the world. So, let's continue to share, laugh, and enjoy these stories, even when the national spotlight on Disability Pride Month has faded. The work continues, and so does the laughter.

Special thanks to Steven Verdile for launching this much-needed outlet for disability humor to share the lighter side of disability.

Motorized Wheelchair User Sets Unofficial Speed Record in Grocery Store

Barbie Movie: A Step Forward or a Missed Opportunity for Disability Representation?

Ryan, Rachael, and Pico pose in front of the poster for Barbie Movie.

This past weekend, my girlfriend and I joined the throngs of Mattel, Inc. Barbie enthusiasts to watch the much-anticipated Barbie movie. As a disability advocate and a fan who may have unapologetically bought "KENough" merch, I was particularly interested in the representation of Wheelchair Barbie, a character that has been a beacon of hope for many young individuals who use wheelchairs.

The movie was entertaining, and the diversity representation was commendable. However, I couldn't help but notice that Wheelchair Barbie, despite her presence in the opening dance scenes, had no dialogue throughout the movie. This was a stark reminder of the reality that, as Madison Lawson writes in her Teen Vogue op-ed, "People with disabilities are rarely featured as the ideal beauty standard, and are often used as objects of inspiration to make non-disabled people feel better about themselves."

The lack of dialogue for Wheelchair Barbie speaks volumes about the broader perception of disability in our culture. It's as if our voices are not deemed important enough to be heard, even in a movie that prides itself on diversity and inclusion.

The struggles faced by Senator Tammy Duckworth, a disability advocate and wheelchair user, further underscore the challenges we face. As reported by POLITICO, Senator Duckworth was unable to watch the Barbie movie due to a broken elevator at the theater. This incident highlights the persistent accessibility issues that prevent full participation in society for individuals with disabilities.

On a more positive note, a resurfaced video of Margot Robbie, the star of the Barbie movie, communicating with a deaf fan at the movie premiere in Amsterdam, has been making rounds on the internet. While many outlets have praised Robbie's actions, I believe that such acts of inclusion should be normalized rather than sensationalized. Inclusion is not a favor or an act of charity; it is a basic human right.

As we wind down Disability Pride Month, let's remember that representation matters, but it's not enough. We need to ensure that our voices are heard, our experiences are acknowledged, and our rights are respected. Let's strive for a world where inclusion is the norm, not the exception.

The Barbie movie, with its appeal and lessons, transcends the gender spectrum. It's a reminder that stories of inclusion and diversity are not just for girls or boys, but for everyone.

Wheelchair Barbie Is a Lesson in the Power of Showing Up Where People Don't Think You Belong