“There are too many disabled car parks these days, especially in malls”

This off the cuff comment stated by a friend of mine left me rather speechless, which is rather unusual for me. I’m usually quick with the riposte when it comes to “Disability Rights” with a snide reply or a rude physical gesture.

However it was not the actual comments that shocked me. It was who uttered this statement that really took the wind out of my sail.

This lady is usually all for inclusion when it comes to disability.

Her comments made me re-examine my thoughts.

In our quest for inclusiveness are we demanding too much? Are our disabled rights encroaching on the rights of others?

At this point my memory banks kicked into gear and I remembered how vital these spaces have been so that I could reach an essential medical or business appointment.
I remembered how frustrated I became when these spaces were not available. Frustration turned to anger when car window screens showed no indication of its owner’s disability.

Perhaps these spaces represent the most visible sign of disability inclusiveness and people have to think what it truly means. Most people nod their head in agreement when inclusiveness is debated but I have noticed the nodding becomes less enthusiastic when the situation becomes inconvenient to them. On the other hand, are we just becoming another version of the people we rant against? The type of person who is only interested in self-preservation and to heck with anyone else?

Granted, people with disabilities are becoming more visible and we need vital links such as disability car parks to maintain our hard earned acceptance into mainstream society, but have we gone too far?

My friend expressed an opinion, which is shouting out for a response

Are there too many disabled car parks these days, especially in malls?

Well, are there………..?

Ross Flood