Why did Deb Pierce, successful architect, devote her time and energy to compiling a book on accessible homes?
It’s a complicated answer. And my response is based on facts and experience and conjecture. Fact: there are millions of people with disabilities in this country who want to live in a home that meets their needs, that is beautiful, that is interesting, that is pleasing to the eye. These wants debunk many myths about people with disabilities, including all of the following: most people with disabilities could never afford to own a home; the people with disabilities who do have jobs all work in menial labor: many people with disabilities live in hospital-like settings, not in the real world; people with disabilities are more comfortable if they separated and segregated in communities built just for them.
Seriously? In these modern times. Unbelievable.
Weekly, people approach me in my wheelchair and offer me cash. I live in an urban area, and, yes, there are a few guys who are homeless who use wheelchairs, too. So, at first, I thought it was understandable. But the frequency annoyed me. “Please take this,” they say. The impulse is a kind one. But I am baffled. Thanks to my wife’s ministrations, my arrogantly shabby look has become urban chic. I am generally clean shaven and rarely smell of alcohol. None of my friends or acquaintances have had similar experiences. The assumption is I am disabled, and, therefore, I must need money, right? Please correct me if you think I’m off-base. What other conclusion can I reach? I also have people offering me bagged lunches on a regular basis. People ask if I am hungry. The assumption being that I do not have enough money to feed myself, right?
Has this ever happened to you?
I suspect the answer is no. If yes, I suspect you would be flabbergasted and deeply offended by the offer. “How dare this person imply that I need money, that I cannot feed myself!”
There are more than 56 million people in the United States with disabilities and their buying power is estimated to be in the billions by the U.S. Department of Labor. How do we get from the stereotypes and assumptions to a place where businesses look to find ways to better serve people with disabilities? We are talking about 20% of the population here!
There should be many books on accessible homes rather than the few that exist, right?
So, no, kind sir and kind madame. I don’t want a handout. All I really want is to be recognized and treated equitably. That’s not charity. It’s civility. And it can be very, very good for your business.
What can you do? Buy this book: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2012/10/prweb10042066.htm.
Or steal mine. Here, take it. I want you to have it.
You have found a way with your words, Randy.
Hurts this reader’s heart to know of such interactions.
Thanks for shedding light on this issue, Randy. As you illustrate so effectively, stereotyping – even if well-intentioned – serves no one. Seeing people as individuals is not only the mark of effective designers, it’s a skill all can seek to master.
Randy – I am shocked and yet, not really. I have had so many people pat me on the head, ask the person in line behind me at the store what I want, or be referred to as “the wheelchair”, that your story doesn’t really surprise me. I haven’t been offered money – but heck, maybe you should just politely say “thank you” and have an extra cup of coffee on them. (teehee) In solidarity, Karen
Randy, good post. I’m naive because you seem invincible and certainly not limited. By the way if the weather keeps up we should be skiing together soon. Tell anyone offering you money to shove it up their ass and don’t worry about it. Keep up the great work!
Randy, thank you for sharing your perspective and experiences. Through the truth being told and educating, the change will begin, one person at a time. Be encouraged that you are part of that movement of change!
This happened to my husband this summer as he was waiting on the sidewalk (in his motorized wheelchair) for me to pick him up. A woman walked by and dropped a $20 dollar bill in his lap. He called to her that he didn’t need it, but she had walked away quickly. We chuckled about it later, knowing that she was doing it with good heart.
We are more offended by the number of places we can’t go because of no accessibility. For example the local Earls restaurant. MN
I appreciate Sterling’s constant support, Chris’ tender heart, Deb’s eloquence, Karen’s unfailing humor, Mitch’s fierce loyalty, Angelika’s cheery optimism, and Michelle’s pragmatism.