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Often times I get asked if I could have one ability that I don’t have, what would it be. Many people are surprised by my response. Sure, I’d love to walk, feed myself, take care of myself, and be able to do things like drive, but the one ability I’d love to have is to speak clearly. Most people don’t understand the impact that verbal interaction has in today’s world.
Many times people think I have a cognitive disability just because I’m in a wheelchair and can’t speak clearly. I’ve had many different augmentative communication devices over the years. Many people with speech impairments use communication devices very effectively, but, admittedly, I’ve never been one of those people. Sure, I used one for classes throughout my schooling, and I still have one for things such as presentations and events where I have to speak to strangers. I don’t use it for day-to-day communication though. There are a few reasons for this. One is because, although devices have become much more compact, having it mounted to my chair is cumbersome (I can’t pull up to my computer desk or any table with the mount on). Secondly, and probably the main reason is that speech programs take a lot of time to learn how to effectively use. Many people compare it to learning a second language. Honestly, that concept has never appealed to me. I’ve learned how to program buttons on my device for what I need to say during certain events (such as conferences and classes), but I find faster ways to spontaneously communicate. I use the speech I do have and lots of gestures. I speak in vowel sounds. For example, my sister’s name is Stephanie. I call her “et-en-nie.” It takes awhile to get used to, but if people are around me enough, they usually catch on pretty fast. If family or friends can’t understand me, they ask me yes or no questions, or I type it on the cell phone. It may take a little while, but eventually I’ll get my point across.
Without even realizing it people judge other people. We all do-it’s a normal human tendency. I’ve encountered some pretty rude people in my life. I’ve been stared and pointed at countless times in my life. Depending on where I am and who I’m with, I usually just kind of ignore it. Sometimes, when I’m with my parents or sister, they’ll say something to the person, but staring and pointing doesn’t bother me much anymore. When I was younger and was in school, kids would tease me. Kids would call me “retard” and say things that did hurt my feelings, but I learned to brush it off. Kids and adults still occasionally tease me today, but I’ve learned to take it in stride and try to overcome their negativity.
Probably what bugs me most is when people treat me like I’m deaf or I’m a baby. People talk to me in real high-pitched loud voice. I’ve gotten pats on my head, pinches on my cheeks, and even kisses on my cheeks multiple times. Again depending on where I am and who I’m with, I usually just kind of blow it off. Sometimes, if I’m with family or close friends, they’ll usually try to explain that I understand everything they say, but sometimes no matter how many times people try tell them, they still do it. Years ago, we had this elderly lady in church who came up to me every Sunday, talked to me really loud, and kissed me on the cheek. It never failed. After awhile, I just got used to it. I’ve also had people insist on giving me things such as stuffed animals and stickers when I’m out in public. I understand when people do these kinds of things that they’re trying to be nice and aren’t trying to be hurtful. That said, it does hurt inside and it’s really embarrassing—especially when out with my friends. Most of my friends are used to it now, and we just laugh it off, but it’s still embarrassing!
I realize people have misconceptions because I’m in a power wheelchair and can’t talk. I also know that I should use my communication device more to avoid some of the misconceptions, but, at the same time, today’s society should be used to differences. Whether the person has a disability or not, treat them as normal as possible. If you have a question, don’t be afraid to ask. The person with the disability would most likely have you ask it rather then having the wrong assumption be made. Don’t be afraid to say hi—- it’ll make things a lot less awkward for both of you!
Though things are improving daily for people with disabilities, some people will never fully understand that we have the capabilities to lead fairly normal lives. We, as people with disabilities, have an ongoing challenge to prove to the world that we can lead successful lives!
***The views expressed here are strictly those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of InControl Wisconsin, the Network or any of our sponsors.
DISABLED WORLD: New Rule Requires US Airlines to Report Wheelchair and Scooter Transport and Damage
By SD Network, 2016-11-08
Some air travel challenges for people with disabilities may be relieved thanks to a final ruling by the Department of Transportation. The ruling requires large domestic airlines to track and report information about wheelchairs and scooters. Beginning in 2017, airlines will report how many wheelchairs and scooters that are put in cargo on a monthly basis. They will be also required to report how many wheelchairs and scooters are lost, damaged, etc... The hope is that this data will show what specific areas training needs to happen to reduce damages and meet the requirements of the Air Carrier Access Act.
A very interesting case about the right to have a service dog in school is making national headlines. The case is about a school district in Michigan who banned a student from bringing her service dog to school. The dog was specially trained to do such things as open doors, pick up items, and provide the girl with some independence. However, the school said an adult assistant could provide all the assistance she needed. There was question whether or not the family could directly sue the school or if they had to go through aadministrative proceedings first to try to settle it. The girl ended up transferring to another school district where the dog was welcomed, but the family is suing the school district under the ADA because they refused to accommodate the dog for over two years. They're seeking emotional damages. The ruling is expected in June
Michigan recently launched its program for ABLE accounts (accounts that allow people with disabilities to have a savings account without jeopardizing their benefits). In Michigan, the program is known as "MiABLE." Accounts can be used for disability-related expenses that will increase and/or maintain a person's health, independence, or quality of life. These accounts are open to both residents in Michigan as well as across the country.
In the 2012 election, 30% of voters reported problems while voting. Various problems ranged from different physical barriers, to the subject of mental competency. This blog discusses some of the issues and what needs to be done to ensure voting is accessible for everyone.
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION: FCC Released Biennial Report on Communications Technology Accessibility
By SD Network, 2016-11-03
The Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau (CGB) of the Federal Communications Commission released its report on the state of accessibility of communications technology under the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (CVAA). The CVAA's goal is to ensure that accessibility laws keep up with the times and constantly changing technology to ensure access for people with disabilities. The report discusses things such as accessibility of telecommunications services, advanced communications services, and mobile phone Internet browsers.
NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DISABILITY: Technology Bill of Rights for Americans with Disabilities
By SD Network, 2016-11-03
The National Council on Disability (NCD) has asked Congress to promulgate a Technology Bill of Rights for Americans with disabilities. NCD established this request in its state of the union on disability policy for 2016, "National Disability Policy: A Progress Report." The report focuses on how information and communication technology (ICT) continues to transform modern life, and the potential ICT and assistive technology holds for improving how people with disabilities live in the world.
We thank the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities for providing us with the following information about important things people should know for Election Day.
Top 10 Things Voters Should Know for Election Day
The Wisconsin Elections Commission released a list of the top 10 things Wisconsin voters should know for Election Day, Tuesday, November 8.
1. The most important thing voters should know is that a photo ID will be required to vote.
Most people already have the photo ID they need to vote like a Wisconsin driver license, ID card or other DMV-issued document. Voters can also use military and veteran’s IDs, some student IDs, tribal IDs, or a certificate of naturalization. The full list is available at www.bringit.wi.gov.
Your photo ID does not need to have your current address, and your name on your ID does not have to exactly match the name on the poll list.
If you do not have a photo ID on Election Day, or if poll workers say your ID is not acceptable, you can still cast a provisional ballot that will be counted if you bring an acceptable ID to the clerk’s office by 4 p.m. the Friday after the election.
2. Voters still have time to get a photo ID.
If you don’t have an acceptable photo ID, you can get one for free after just one visit to a Wisconsin DMV office through the ID Petition Process (IDPP), said Michael Haas, administrator of the Wisconsin Elections Commission.
“Just bring whatever identifying documents you have like a birth certificate and proof of your current address, but if you don’t have one, the DMV will still give you a document with your photo that you can use for voting,” he said. Starting the week of Oct. 31, the DMV will send you the photo ID document by overnight delivery. Voters who find they do not have an acceptable ID on Election Day should go to the DMV as soon as possible.
3. There are important exceptions to the photo ID law.
Military voters and permanent absentee voters do not need a photo ID to vote. Becoming a permanent absentee voter is an excellent option for voters who have difficulty making it to the polls on Election Day due to age, disability, infirmity or illness. To become a permanent absentee voter, contact your municipal clerk’s office as soon as possible.
4. Absentee voters should mail their ballots back ASAP.
The law has changed and absentee ballots must be delivered to the municipal clerk’s office by Election Day or they will not be counted. When your ballot is postmarked does not matter. To give USPS enough time to do its job, the Elections Commission urges absentee voters to put their ballots in the mail one week before Election Day.
5. Make sure you know when and where to vote.
Polls are open in Wisconsin from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, November 8.
“Wisconsin voters can find the most accurate information about voting at MyVote.wi.gov, including where their polling place is and whether their registration is current,” said Haas. “If you’re not sure, take a few minutes to visit the My Vote Wisconsin website. It could save you time and headaches on Election Day.”
People who do not have internet access can check their status with their municipal clerk’s office.
My Vote Wisconsin also has sample ballots so voters can familiarize themselves with their choices before they arrive in the voting booth.
6. Voters can register at the polling place on Election Day.
“If you check My Vote Wisconsin and find you’re not registered, don’t panic,” Haas said. “Election Day registration ensures that everyone who is qualified to vote will get to vote. Wisconsin, unlike many other states, has had registration at the polls since 1976, so very few voters will likely be forced to vote on a provisional ballot.”
To register on Election Day, Wisconsin voters must provide a proof of residence document. It can be a driver license or state ID card with the voter’s current address. It can also be a current utility bill, lease, university ID card or other official document showing the voter’s name and current address. For a list of acceptable documents, visit the Elections Commission website. You must be a resident of your ward for 10 days to register, but the document does not need to be 10 days old. Voters who have a valid Wisconsin driver license will be required to use their license number to complete the registration form. Otherwise, they may use a state ID card number or last four digits of their Social Security number.
7. Voters should know what to do if they witness problems at the polling place.
“If you see voter fraud, voter intimidation, electioneering or misconduct by election officials, your first point of contact should be the Chief Election Inspector at the polling place,” said Haas. “Most concerns can be resolved then and there, but if that doesn’t work, contact your municipal clerk’s office or local law enforcement.”
Complaints or issues that are not resolved to the voter’s satisfaction should be reported to the Wisconsin Elections Commission. Voters can go online and report problems at http://elections.wi.gov/complaints, or they can call 1-866-VOTE-WIS. Haas noted that the Commission will be open extended hours on Election Day to assist voters. Phones will be answered from 6 a.m. until at least 11 p.m. on Election Day.
The remaining things a voter should know are:
8. Election observers must follow the rules: Election observers are welcome at every polling place, but they must obey the instructions of the Chief Election Inspector, and may not interact with voters. Only Wisconsin electors may challenge another voter’s eligibility, and there are specific criteria and limitations on challenges. Observers who disobey will be asked to leave, and may not observe at other polling places on Election Day. Rules for election observers are available at the polling place and online: http://elections.wi.gov/publications/brochures/observer-rules
9. Leave political items at home: Voters are asked not to wear political clothing or paraphernalia to the polling place on Election Day. The Chief Election Inspector may ask voters to remove or cover up political items, or to leave the polling place if they are judged to be electioneering or creating a disturbance.
10. Get in line before the polls close: Voters standing in line waiting to vote when the polling place closes at 8 p.m. on Election Day will be permitted to vote.
Concerned if your polling place is accessible? Find out more at the Wisconsin Disability Vote Coalition: http://www.disabilityvote.org/
Wondering what your local candidate has to say about issues important to individuals with disabilities? Wisconsin Disability Vote Coalition sent a questionnaire to all of the Wisconsin state candidates on the November ballot. See the answers from those who responded at the http://www.disabilityvote.org/node/59
Have questions about voting? Contact the Wisconsin Disability Vote Coalition at 1-844-347-8683
Need a ride to your polling place: Check out this list of organizations, offering free rides on Election Day in various areas: https://commoncausewisconsin.files.wordpress.com/2016/10/rides-to-the-polls-2016_-updated-10-31.pdf
Monthly Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits will increase 0.3 percent in 2017. The increase reflects the annual cost-of-living adjustment. This article does a nice job of laying out figures and showing how the increase will affect all of the amounts.
Whether it's a large convention or a small meeting, event planners often struggle to make sure that events are accessible to all people. To help event service professionals with this, the Event Service Professionals Association has created a document called "Project Access: Accessible Meetings FAQs" which is a downloadable forms venues can customize with their accessibility information. There are checklists that cover everything from the guest's arrival, to transportation, lodging and other factors.
