Defining Accessibility

Most people associate accessibility with resources aimed at aiding individuals with disabilities, such as designated parking spots, wheelchair ramps, captions in videos, or sign language interpreters at events. However, the scope of "access" extends far beyond these examples and even the realm of disability itself. To grasp what access truly means, one must first recognize the societal landscape that often neglects accessibility.

Challenges Faced by the Disabled Community

Individuals with disabilities frequently encounter a similar challenge: the quest for resources that enable them to lead functional and fulfilling lives often raises questions from others, such as, "Do you really need that?" This skepticism may manifest in various situations, whether it involves purchasing specialized food, opting for an elevator, taking medication, or using a mobility scooter in stores. At some point, the choices made to alleviate suffering attract scrutiny.

Many people perceive the inquiry, "Is X a disability?" as a veiled question of need: "How much help do you require?" This societal norm suggests that only those in dire need are entitled to seek assistance. Consequently, numerous individuals grow up believing their needs are insufficient to justify seeking alternative solutions.

This societal skepticism aligns with the "medical model of disability," which views disability as a flaw needing correction—a deficiency. This perspective is the predominant way disabilities are understood in our culture. When one's existence is framed as a problem to be solved, it often leads others to view their disability as evidence of personal failure to "fix" themselves, thus undermining their authority to define their needs.

The Social Model of Disability

In contrast, the "social model of disability" asserts that disability is not a defect but rather a misalignment between individual capabilities and societal structures. For instance, if everyone utilized wheelchairs, society would inherently adapt to this norm, ensuring universal accessibility. However, because society is primarily designed for those who can walk, the presence of wheelchairs can create significant barriers to mobility.

The focus of the social model is not on altering individuals to fit societal expectations but rather on transforming society—or the tools within it—to accommodate diverse needs. An accommodation serves as a bridge between an individual's natural capabilities and societal demands.

For example, if a job requires prolonged standing and an individual cannot physically manage it, their ability to work can be preserved by providing a tall stool, allowing them to fulfill their responsibilities without compromising their health. Accessibility, then, means that variations in ability do not inhibit participation in intended activities. A ramp, for instance, converts an otherwise inaccessible staircase into a welcoming entrance for those using wheelchairs.

The Broader Implications of Accessibility

As I delved deeper into the concept of accessibility, I began to recognize its broader relevance beyond disability advocacy. I firmly believe that no individual is entirely "able." While there exists a distinct divide between those perceived as disabled and those seen as able-bodied, each group faces unique privileges and challenges.

Every person experiences moments of fatigue, illness, or injury at some point in their lives. Everyone possesses quirks that deviate from societal norms, and everyone has needs that, if neglected, hinder their effectiveness. If all individuals deserve safety, autonomy, and emotional fulfillment, then access to the necessary resources should be a universal right.

This principle aligns with a common assertion among disability activists: implementing accessibility benefits everyone. A ramp facilitates entry for wheelchair users, but it also aids those walking, using canes, pushing strollers, or riding bikes. Accessibility embraces the natural diversity of human needs and strives to accommodate them.

Rethinking Help and Fulfillment

Adopting an accessibility mindset shifts the expectation from enduring pain and struggle until reaching a breaking point to one where meeting needs is the norm. Accessibility as a philosophy invites us to question: Why should you hesitate to ask for help? Why endure unnecessary hardships? Why not remove obstacles when possible? The ultimate aim becomes achieving freedom and fulfillment, rather than merely maximizing resource efficiency.

Accessibility and Social Justice

Returning to the social model of disability, which describes disability as a disconnect between individual capabilities and societal structures, it is vital to recognize that societal expectations and norms also shape this structure. For instance, if a community stigmatizes the need to take breaks during physical exertion, individuals may feel pressured to conform to an unrealistic standard of productivity.

Such societal pressures reveal that achieving accessibility involves not only changing physical spaces but also challenging and reshaping societal beliefs. This realization highlighted a profound connection between my views on accessibility and my advocacy for social justice.

The pursuit of social justice inherently seeks to dismantle the barriers that marginalize certain groups. When individuals are marginalized, it reflects that society was not constructed to accommodate their needs. Those with privilege enjoy greater autonomy, safety, and potential success than those who are marginalized. Thus, social justice endeavors to create access for all, addressing barriers that hinder various rights.

Becoming an Accessible Person

With this understanding, I propose the notion of being an "Accessible Person": a commitment to bridging the societal and structural gaps that impede access to autonomy, safety, and fulfillment—for oneself, for loved ones, and for society at large.