
As the grandfather of six grandchildren, I cherish every moment I can spend with them. One of my grandchildren participates in youth hockey at the High School. Nothing would please me more than to attend these games and cheer him on as a proud grandfather. But as a person with a disability, I can’t do that.
I am a staunch advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities in our community and I will continue to speak out and take necessary action against any violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act and other civil rights that prohibits people with disabilities from attending public services and programs.
Despite my numerous attempts to have meaningful and productive conversations about the accessibility concerns at the high school the city side has none nothing to address these obvious violations.
These violations have made it extraordinarily difficult for individuals with disabilities to attend public meetings or partake in simple activities like attending hockey games. It is entirely unacceptable that the city has overlooked these issues, especially when they are fully aware of the consequences. Relocating accessible parking spaces 600+ feet away from the High School entrances is unconscionable and discriminatory.
It is reassuring that the city has recently hired an ADA coordinator, but it is concerning that they may not have received adequate training on accessibility regulations. Therefore, it is crucial that we persistently push for greater efforts to address these violations and guarantee that all public services are universally accessible. The city must take responsibility for complying with regulations that defend the rights of individuals with disabilities in our community, and I am confident that our collective voice will contribute to ensuring that this happens.