Vixen@f11.n203.z1.fidonet.org (Vixen) (05/26/90)
Index Number: 8515
Hi,
Well, the first obvious thing about the "line with the sign" that
would things easier for handicapped persons is that it had two
sides (though one was blocked off because it was filled with their
shopping carts.) and yes, not only was the line at this register
shorter, "There was no one else in it!"
Now as Stu pointed out, perhaps "they" consider handicapped
persons, only those in wheelchairs. However, even though I am
ambulatory, In a store, it is often very difficult for me to
communicate very easily with people at cash registers. Also, I
need to ask the denomination of each bill so that I may fold it
accordingly, which tends to people up just a tiny bit. So, it seems
logical to me, that I would be eligible to use cash register aisles
designated to assist handicapped persons.
When we went to this aisle, the checker was looking into the til.
No matter, if a sign says "this aisle open to handicapped people at
all times." Then, I think I think it is pretty clear. You either
honour it or take it down. It is a little thing, but the principle
is much bigger I think.
I think it makes very little difference really, what the other
lines were like, that aisle is designated publicly as one that
serves handicapped persons at all times, and I think I certainly
qualify as a handicapped person.
You know what I mean? (Actually, standing in line, in and of
itself doesn't bother me. As I said earlier, it is the principle
that is important here. Unless they want to put up a sign that says
"This aisle open to handicapped persons at all times, unless we are
busy doing something else!)
Oh I love the social llife! (heheheh)
Keepin' the faith! (I'm just such a rebel rouser!)
. Vixen
--
Uucp: ..!{decvax,oliveb}!bunker!hcap!hnews!203!11!Vixen
Internet: Vixen@f11.n203.z1.fidonet.orgVixen@f11.n203.z1.fidonet.org (Vixen) (06/09/90)
Index Number: 8738
Hi,
Well, I agree with you that "arguing" with the store manager about
the sign would not be be beneficial or serve a positive purpose.
However, I disagree with you, "in the extreme", that I should just
keep it to myself and "chalk it up as another annoying"
experience.
When we do things like that, we then allow others to "walk over" us
and pretend that policies set to assist us are meaningless. While I
need not argue, I refuse to be "silent" about such things, for this
type of silence is poison. I may be blind and hearing impaired, but
I will be damned if I will be further handicapped by becoming
invisible!! No, one thing I have learned, if people do not speak
out, they will not be listened to, ever.
As for the placards. I understand that you do not find them
necessary as a "blind" person, but do keep in mind, that that is
you. There are those of us blind who do need them.
For example, I am a low vision blind and hearing impaired, I do not
"hear" traffic. Traversing a busy city parking lot is not always
very easy even when being guided. (Afterall, not all of our
friends are that skilled at guiding.) even though I can "walk" fine
and for quite a distance (if my respiratory or hip problems aren't
acting up.) and I find my placard provides a little bit of a
"safety net" for me.
We are not qualified to judge which individuals do or do not "need"
a placard, rather, we know only whether "we" as individuals need
them. I think the majority of concern in this area is the use of
Placards by able bodied friends and family members of the disABLED
person (rather than the disABLED person).
Keepin' the faith!
. Vixen
--
Uucp: ..!{decvax,oliveb}!bunker!hcap!hnews!203!11!Vixen
Internet: Vixen@f11.n203.z1.fidonet.orgVixen@f11.n203.z1.fidonet.org (Vixen) (07/18/90)
Index Number: 9198
Hi Cliff,
Well, I agree with you about the futility of complaining to people
who have no power to change that which brings about the complaint.
However, I would point out though, say in the case of the "sign in
that pharmacy", if you complain to the cashier who tells you "this
aisle is closed" when it has a sign clearly stating that that aisle
is "Open AT ALL TIMES to handicapped persons", the cashier if
unable to act on the "complaint" does have the capacity to bring
such an incident to the store manager of supervisor.
I would not automatically become "hostile" in such a situation (and
did not) but there is, in my opinion, nothing wrong with bringing
to the attention of the cashier because she is the person "then and
there", but it is really something you would be more "assertive"
with the manager or supervisor about.
Also, I don't see this as "complaining", I see this as being
assertive and having the fortitude to confront something that "is
not right."
Afterall, if they do not wish to have or honour such a policy for
handicapped persons, then they sure as heck shouldn't have a sign
up for all to see that says they do.
Oh in in the NETmail you sent me, you said you could figure out
what the FM system was but weren't sure what I mean't by VID
(talking about my hearing loss.) I think I can clear that up for
you, the initials weren't VID, but rather ALD, meaning "Assistive
Listening Device". It is a unit that clips to my belt and has a
microphone pinned to me and and earphone.
You take care!
Keepin' the faith!
. Vixen
--
Uucp: ..!{decvax,oliveb}!bunker!hcap!hnews!203!11!Vixen
Internet: Vixen@f11.n203.z1.fidonet.org