John,
Naturally you have to make your own mind up about this not uncommon dilemma.
However I would point out that once you start allowing them to 'carry' you
up stairs, it never ends. They never see the need to make adjustments.
---
Kevin Hyett
Manchester, UK
-----Original Message-----
From: [log in to unmask]
[mailto:[log in to unmask]]On Behalf Of John B
Kelly
Sent: 28 April 2000 01:38
To: Disability Research List
Subject: When to demand access
I was recently part of a department-wide invite to a book
publication party. My adviser is one of the editors of a sociology
anthology. I'm not sure what to do, and would like the wisdom of anyone
who could respond. I use a power wheelchair, and would never get carried
up steps.
I'm ambivalent about the thing twice: not sure I really wanna go
all that much, but maybe it would be good for networking, etc, since I
might well teach in this field; secondly, I'm not sure whether I wanna
make a deal over it (not sure I would go even if it were accessible, and I
have that "what if" anxiety of "what if they switch locations and I end up
not being able to go?"), but then maybe I should/have to, because of the
exclusion ("We are sorry Mr. Negro [circa 1960 USA], but perhaps you could
enter via the servants' entrance? Once inside, I'm sure you'll enjoy
yourself")
Any relevant experiences?
Thanx,
John
Here's 2nd response from the RSVP person, with names removed.
-----------
John,
I am sorry to report that there are stairs in both the front and back
of [the host's] building. If we could help carry your chair up the
stairs, we'd be happy to do so. Her apartment is all on one floor and
very open (in the eyes of a person not in a wheel chair). I think it is a
fairly accessible place once inside.
I know that power wheelchairs vary greatly, so its your call whether
yours can be carried in doors and whether you'd want that sort of
assistance.
[The host] asked me to apologize for the problem.
[RSVP person]
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