Accessibility for All
At its most basic definition, accessibility is how something can be made available or usable to as many people as possible. Accessibility is all too often not considered the norm by people who are not disabled. Still, in the 30 years since the Americans with Disabilities Act was enacted, awareness can no longer be the excuse.
People with disabilities are often expected to accommodate themselves or request access to something that everyone else already enjoys. Ignoring the necessity of accessibility actually keeps large segments of customers and patrons from entering, enjoying, living, celebrating, and sharing spaces and events with everyone else.
Buildings, event venues, restaurants, stores, parks, or other areas welcoming members of the public (people) need to consider accessibility issues such as:
easily identifiable and accessible entrance and egress, (Not just the ramp by the dumpster in the back)
distributed, respectful seating, (Not the designated empty spaces on the floor away from the other members of the group seeing the same show)
plentiful and accessible restrooms, (Not just a couple of accessible stalls on the mezzanine)
commercially available hearing devices, (Not advertising that they are available only to find out there is one unit and it is broken)
sign language interpreters (Not knowing how to find one isn’t an excuse for not having an interpreter)
other modifications.
Increased awareness of neurodiversity means that warnings of loud noises, harsh language, or other potentially triggering content should be commonplace. To date, these accommodations are still exceptions. Notably there are a few exceptions such as: autism-friendly events or presentations and sensory-friendly store hours. Gradually, businesses are beginning to realize that people with disabilities and families affected by disabilities have spending power and needs that are unmet. But seriously, it is time to deliver on these ideas. Awareness can no longer be the excuse. These needs are human needs to belong. They aren’t special needs. They’re the same needs.
Recognizing human needs creates a far richer and inclusive customer experience when it includes everyone. Everyone.