Concerns raised over inauguration accessibility
December 31st, 2008From WJLA-TV [Washington, DC], CBS News Political Hotsheet, and the [Washington, D.C.] Examiner:
As the inauguration planners advise people to take the Metro and prepare for long walks, people with disabilities are wondering how they will be able to attend the inauguration events at all.
Some are now even saying the committee is doing all it can to discourage the disabled from showing up.
… “This is like a big, bold sign that says if you’re a person with a disability, this is not your event,” said Richard Simms, executive director of D.C. Center for Independent Living, a nonprofit that promotes independent lifestyles for disabled residents.
CBS News quotes from a memo issued by inauguration event organizers:
And if you’re disabled, best of luck: “Persons in wheelchairs or utilizing walkers should be aware that they will need to move across bumpy surfaces, grassy areas, and possible icy areas (depending on the weather).”

