So this week during my intership, I experienced a somewhat controversial situation. There was a political rally meeting up in our area, and one of they women who arrived for the even was handicapped. When she came in, looking to use the restroom she could not fit. Her wheelchair was unable to get through the hallway. My first thought was "isn't there regulations on business owners," in regards to equal access. People should all have the ability to use facilities, or else they business can be accused of discrimination.
The women originally left out of frustration, but when I went out and spoke with her, we rectified the situation. We went back the hallway together and reorganized the passage way. Once in the bathroom we needed to move a table and trash can, for better access.
I felt really bad about the situation because I can't imagine how difficult it must have been for her. I just hope that she feels welcomed back, and not uncomfortable with the situation.
There are laws that cover this sort of thing. Depending on the age of the building and when it was recently renovated will dictate which laws apply. Older buildings do not have to meet a "handicap" code, but if renovated, they must adapt for these situations by law. So glad you were there to assist her. It is a sad, sad world when business owners don't care enough to fix problems before they are required by law to do it.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you Tahays. And you Amanda, I'm pretty happy that you were there for her. I had a similar situation experience about three months ago. It is unrelated to my internship, but I always look out for citizens like her. I assisted this young disabled woman who was stuck between tones of rocks in her way. She could not drive up her wheelchair and I saw so much agony in her.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like the problem was with how the building was being used, not the actual architecture of the building. Your right though depending on the age of the building it may be grandfathered in.
ReplyDeleteThat was nice of you to follow her outside and help her. I know a lot of people who probably would have let her leave, even though she was noticeably upset.
ReplyDeleteit is very commendable you followed her out to help her. we could use more kindness like that in the world
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