Dear Editor, Recently, and for a long time, the news and general public have been fighting for gender rights, women’s rights and sexuality rights – what about disability rights? Since the Disability Rights Movement, there have been major improvements to barriers of communication, physical space and attitude throughout North America and the world. However, there are things within the City of Airdrie that our business owners and municipal government should take more responsibility for – especially architecturally speaking. Our bowling alley, Shamrock Lanes, is only accessible by stairs. Many individuals have never been there because they simply cannot enter. Some public buildings within downtown do not have automatic doors, such as the Dollarama, leaving individuals with walkers, strollers and wheelchairs to open the doors for themselves when there is a simple solution. And worst of all is Genesis Place Recreation Centre. A place that the citizens of Airdrie should have pride in, a place for all individuals to feel welcome, regardless of ability. The viewing area within the Airdrie Edge Gymnastics Club cannot be accessed by individuals with mobility difficulties. Genesis Place does not have wheelchair-accessible change rooms, which is also a problem for individuals with walkers or other mobility difficulties. The viewing areas for the fields are also not accessible. This is a problem that stems from local businesses to architecture owned by the City. Some would potentially say this is a waste of time and resources, but an initiative that benefits those with disabilities benefits all. It is time for action. The municipal government must fight for accessible public spaces for everyone. They must lead by example and move forward into the world of inclusion. Lawyer David Lepofsky, an advocate for people with disabilities who is working on a case where an individual was banned from a store due to mobility challenges, said “change requires government action, not just increased awareness” (Tina Mackenzie/CBC). Why would we hold our children and teachers to this standard when our city government does not hold themselves to the same? Jenessa Contos Willow Brook
