Category — All About Polymer Clay

n my post “Visiting HQ and making phone calls” I made mention that the phonebanking location at the SEIU in Columbus, Oh was not accessible.  I had no intention of calling out the Obama campaign for this oversight.  I was simply pointing out my experience and how I handled it.  Blogging can be such a personal experience sometimes it’s easy to forget that someone might actually read and respond to yoru post.  It took less than 24 hours for a representative from the Obama campaign to contact me and offer to make accommodations.  I was surprised and impressed to say the least.  Usually in situations like this, an apology is offered and usually mention is made about lack of funds.  The ADA is often seen as an expensive and inconvenient mandate.  This was NOT the case with the Obama campaign.  I was invited to phonebank at HQ (where the atmosphere is electric these six days before the primary) and assured that for the general election, if Obama is the nominee, the phonebanking access will be re-evaluated.That’s not the end of the story.  Yesterday I went to see Senator Obama at St. Johns Arena here in Columbus, Oh.  I called ahead and asked about accommodations for wheelchair users and was assured that there was an ADA section and that if I was stuck in line in 20 degree weather I could come inside to wait.  I arrived at St. Johns several hours early and indeed was allowed to come inside with the volunteers for the event.  I was also recruited and consulted with regard to helping people in wheelchairs get to their seats etc…My experience may not sound remarkable, however, after 22 years in a wheelchair I have to say that it was the BEST experience I’ve had in MANY similar situations.  In other similar situations I and my disabled cohorts are NOT given the opportunity to participate or offer suggestions.  Yes, we are given respect, but in my opinion the valuable first -hand knowledge we have isn’t sought nor is it welcomed.

There was an interpreter and a section for the deaf or hard of hearing, something I’ve not seen on other campaign events (which will remain nameless). There was a general sense of belonging that was incredible.  I mentioned to another volunteer that I felt like “one of the cool kids” at last.  She laughed and agreed that is was definitely a time to celebrate the inclusiveness and unity that the Obama campaign elicits.