Your Disability Awareness Month tributes ring hollow
Myra Mikie Friedman addressed City Council on Monday, Oct. 3, 2023:
Itβs Disabilities Awareness Month: is it just another proclamation?
Sadly, your words rang hollow because there are many disabled people in this city, yet while you cavalierly usher in Disabilities Awareness Month, you continue programs that hurt people living with disabilities.
If you force us to share sidewalks with scooter riders, abandoned scooters, and delivery robots, how can you say you are concerned about the safety and access of the disabled people who live here?
I attended the Transportation and Mobility Commission meeting to talk about the October 16th Council meeting on scooters. Most of the members on that commission knew.
They didnβt know that your staff had already gone to the various boards and commissions. So after listening to the report and to several public speakers not being happy with what they heard, they made a motion asking that you donβt make that program permanent on October 16th without getting a lot more input. I wanted to scream, but the staff has already gotten this input from the advisory boards and commissions and 90% of it was negative.
We finally need to end the pilot program. But of course, because of protocol, I couldnβt speak. It makes me wonder though if you listen to your advisory boards and your commissions, or read the staff reports, or have you decided that youβre going to approve this scooter thing no matter what anybody says?
I hope thatβs not true and I hope youβre not just looking at the money because tonight as you usher in Disabilities Awareness Month, you as our leaders must truly try to help people with disabilities to live a life of equal access, not just this month but all year round. Let your actions match your words. Thank you, and Iβll see you in two weeks.
One of the first demonstrations of authentic SERVICE should be visible from each and every council member. True compassion for those needing legitimate assistance should be an honor freely given without any thought for recognition or favor.
Each and every speaker during Public Comment exhibited far more common sense and compassion than the current City Council Members. Why is that?
Rick Watts noted the influential voices of the past including Gouvernor Morris and Franklin Delano Roosevelt. He appears to have the type of gravitas that would qualify as a Councilmember way beyond whatever disability he evidences.
Rick Watts comments were thoughtful, beautiful, and powerful! he was very impressive last night
Likewise Mickie, YOU are always impressive!
Oops! Mikie!!!!
Bravo to Mikie for her tenacity and commitment to creating safe spots for all pedestrians, particularly those with disabilities. This issue affects all residents and we are the better for having a champion like Mikie.
I totally agree. I have been assisting a disabled person travel around the country the last few weeks, and itβs refreshing to see how good the airlines can treat people who need a little extra time and space. Sadly our fake compassionate Council can be downright evil. Mikieβs perseverance gives hope.
thank you for your kind words!
But donβt get your hopes up because the city council members have all the power! please please show up on October 16 at the city Council meeting and letβs present a united front! thanks again!
Strong words from MF and the guy after her. Those who vote for the obstructive scooters will have a hard time looking her in the eye ever again.
Not trying to be crude here, but if you made it about sex, they might care more. Issues like PrEP, sex work, people hooking up, etc., tend to get lots of support. How about talking about how people need accessible sidewalks so that they can get out and express themselves sexually?