As a disability advocate, I've always believed in the power of inclusive design and accessibility. Today, I find myself reflecting on these values, especially as we approach Thanksgiving—a time to be thankful, yet also a time to acknowledge the work that remains in creating truly accessible spaces.
Recently, my experience at a newly renovated local Starbucks brought these issues into sharp focus. Starbucks often promotes its Third Place Policy, emphasizing a welcoming environment for all. While the staff's helpfulness and welcoming nature are commendable, the reality of navigating an inaccessible space independently tells a different story.
The renovation, which I had hoped would improve accessibility, resulted in narrower pathways, fewer seating options for those with disabilities, and a lack of automatic door buttons. This isn't just about convenience; it's about the fundamental right to access public spaces independently.
This experience isn't isolated. It reflects a broader issue highlighted in a Toronto Star article, where a new bike lane was criticized for its inaccessibility, raising questions about who designs and approves such projects. Similarly, Mark Raymond, Jr. CEO of the Split Second Foundation, emphasizes in FacilitiesNet/NFMT that the ADA was a "touchdown," but the game is far from over. He stresses the importance of going beyond ADA compliance to truly understanding the disabled experience.
As we near Thanksgiving, I am reminded that while we should be thankful for those who champion accessibility, gratitude should not be the endpoint. Acknowledging our rights to accessible spaces is one thing; actively ensuring these spaces are truly accessible is another.
Organizations, especially those like Starbucks that pride themselves on being a 'Third Place,' must realize that an environment cannot be welcoming if it cannot be independently navigated by all. This Thanksgiving, let's be thankful for progress made, but also commit to advocating for the changes still needed.
As we continue our journey towards a more inclusive world, let's remember that accessibility is not a privilege; it's a right. It's time for all organizations to listen, learn, and act.
‘Who designed this, who approved this?’ New Eglinton bike lane ‘illegal’, says lawyer and disability activist
Celebrating Universal Design and Inclusion at GitLab
Ryan Honick Presents to the GitLab team on the 33rd anniversary of the ADA
Today marks the 33rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a landmark legislation that has transformed the lives of millions of Americans. Today, I had the distinct honor of speaking at GitLab on this significant day. Our discussion revolved around the benefits of universal design and remote work in fostering more inclusive and welcoming environments for employees of all abilities.
The conversation was vibrant, engaging, and insightful. I am profoundly grateful to the team at GitLab for inviting me to speak on such crucial topics during Disability Pride Month, and particularly on the anniversary of the ADA. It is through such dialogues that we continue the legacy and vital work of the ADA, ensuring equal opportunities for everyone to thrive in the workplace and beyond.
The passion of the GitLab team was palpable. They are committed to creating an environment where all employees can thrive and succeed. They understand that true inclusion happens when conversations about diversity and disability become the norm, not the exception. When we bring these discussions out of the shadows, we dismantle the stigma and shame often associated with disability. We create a space where people feel empowered to share their stories and experiences, enriching us all.
Normalizing these conversations is a step towards a more inclusive society. It allows us to recognize and appreciate the unique perspectives we each bring to the table, and understand how disability can impact us in ways we may not realize.
I am deeply thankful to GitLab for this opportunity. Their leadership's passion for these discussions is evident, and it's a reminder that change truly starts from the top. I hope that these conversations continue not just during Disability Pride Month, but throughout the year. They are daily discussions that need to happen. They are crucial to our success as individuals, as a society, and as a workforce.
I want to express my gratitude to GitLab for today's opportunity to discuss these important topics. Let's continue to bring these conversations to the forefront, not just today, but every day of the year.