Beyond Compliance: Why 'Committed' Accessibility is Essential

In our latest podcast episode, From Wheelchair to World Changer: Jenna Udenberg’s Story, we spoke with Jenna Udenberg, an author, advocate, and 2020 Bush Fellow. Jenna's personal journey, marked by the challenges of living with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, has fueled her mission to transform accessibility from a mere requirement into an ingrained norm. This blog post delves deeper into the critical distinction between simply complying with accessibility standards and truly committing to creating inclusive environments. We’ll explore real-world examples, discuss the barriers that persist, and highlight the innovative work Jenna and others are doing to make accessibility a reality for everyone.

Beyond Compliance to Commitment

For too long, accessibility has been viewed as a checklist item – something to be addressed to avoid legal repercussions or negative press. This "compliant" approach often results in solutions that are inadequate, impersonal, and ultimately fail to meet the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities. A committed approach, on the other hand, places accessibility at the forefront of design and decision-making. It's about proactively seeking input from disabled individuals, understanding their lived experiences, and integrating accessibility considerations into every stage of a project, whether it's designing a building, developing a website, or planning a community event.

The difference is profound. Compliance often leads to minimal effort and a focus on meeting the letter of the law, whereas commitment fosters innovation and a genuine desire to create spaces and experiences that are welcoming and usable by all. It requires a shift in mindset, from seeing accessibility as a burden to recognizing it as an opportunity to create a more inclusive and equitable society. The move toward commitment requires us to re-evaluate our current approaches and recognize where improvements can be made to create better, more accessible environments.

Jenna Udenberg's Story: A Catalyst for Change

Jenna Udenberg's story is a powerful example of how personal experience can drive meaningful change. Diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis as a child, Jenna has navigated numerous accessibility challenges throughout her life. These experiences have shaped her perspective and fueled her passion for advocating for a more inclusive world. As outlined in our recent podcast episode, Jenna’s perspective shines a light on the systemic problems with current accessibility approaches. The story from her book, and Jenna’s own life experiences, are a constant reminder that we must do better to bring true equity to the disabled.

Her book, "Within My Spokes: A Tapestry of Pain, Growth and Freedom," offers a deeply personal account of her journey, highlighting both the struggles and the triumphs she has encountered. This candid and insightful narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the human impact of accessibility barriers. The success of her book is testament to the need for more stories from those with disabilities so that others may better understand and work towards better equity. It's her lived experiences and her understanding of the need to advocate that have given her a powerful platform for change.

Through her nonprofit, Above & Beyond With U, Jenna is actively working to promote accessibility in communities and organizations. The name itself illustrates her desire to move beyond just meeting minimum standards. Above & Beyond With U embodies her commitment to go above and beyond what is required to create truly inclusive spaces. This work includes funding accessible events, consulting with businesses on inclusive design, and raising awareness about the importance of accessibility. Jenna is a catalyst for change, inspiring others to embrace a more committed approach to accessibility.

The Critical Difference: 'Committed' vs. 'Compliant' Accessibility

The distinction between "committed" and "compliant" accessibility is crucial. Compliant accessibility focuses on adhering to legal requirements and building codes, often resulting in solutions that are technically compliant but functionally inadequate. For example, a building might have a ramp that meets the required slope, but the entrance is located far from the main entrance or is poorly lit, making it difficult for individuals with mobility impairments to access. Another example is a website that uses alt text for images but the alt text is generic or unhelpful, defeating the purpose of providing alternative information for users who are blind or visually impaired.

Committed accessibility, on the other hand, goes beyond the minimum requirements and focuses on creating truly inclusive experiences. It involves actively seeking input from individuals with disabilities, understanding their needs and preferences, and incorporating these insights into the design process. It also means considering the diverse range of disabilities and the unique challenges each presents. It is not a one-size-fits-all approach, but rather a personalized and thoughtful approach that puts the needs of the user first.

This approach often leads to more innovative and effective solutions. For example, instead of simply installing a ramp, a committed approach might involve designing a universally accessible entrance that is seamlessly integrated into the building's architecture and provides a welcoming and convenient experience for all users. Instead of relying on generic alt text, a committed approach might involve providing detailed and descriptive alt text that accurately conveys the content and purpose of the image. The difference lies in the level of thought, care, and attention to detail that is invested in the process.

Challenges and Failures in Housing and New Builds

One of the most significant areas where the gap between compliance and commitment is evident is in housing and new builds. Despite accessibility standards and regulations, many new homes and apartments are still not designed with accessibility in mind. Common issues include narrow doorways, inaccessible bathrooms, kitchens with limited maneuverability, and a lack of adaptable features. This not only limits housing options for individuals with disabilities but also creates unnecessary challenges and barriers to independent living. The need for truly accessible housing is a national crisis, and as the population ages, it will only continue to grow.

The failure to prioritize accessibility in housing often stems from a lack of understanding and awareness among architects, developers, and builders. Many view accessibility as an added cost or a design constraint, rather than an opportunity to create more livable and inclusive spaces. It also reflects a broader societal bias that often overlooks the needs and perspectives of individuals with disabilities. By prioritizing the needs of those with disabilities, all who live in the building will benefit. For example, wider doorways allow easier movement and less constriction for all occupants.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach. First, it's essential to strengthen accessibility standards and regulations and ensure that they are effectively enforced. Second, it's crucial to educate architects, developers, and builders about the benefits of accessible design and provide them with the resources and tools they need to create truly inclusive homes. Third, it's important to involve individuals with disabilities in the design process and solicit their feedback on proposed plans. By working together, we can create housing that is accessible, affordable, and welcoming for everyone.

Travel Barriers and the Need for Policy Change

Travel presents another significant set of challenges for individuals with disabilities. Airlines frequently damage wheelchairs, hotels often lack accessible rooms, and public transportation systems are not always reliable or accessible. These barriers can make it difficult, if not impossible, for individuals with disabilities to travel for work, leisure, or family visits. Policy changes are necessary to ensure that all modes of transportation are accessible and that individuals with disabilities are treated with dignity and respect.

One of the most pressing issues is the damage and loss of wheelchairs by airlines. Wheelchairs are essential mobility devices for many individuals, and when they are damaged or lost, it can have a devastating impact on their lives. Airlines need to be held accountable for the damage they cause and must implement better procedures for handling and transporting wheelchairs. Policies that promote and require better care are necessary to ensure the safety of essential medical equipment. The policies should also include prompt repair or replacement of damaged or lost equipment.

In addition to addressing the physical barriers to travel, it's also important to address the attitudinal barriers. Many airline staff, hotel employees, and transportation workers lack adequate training on how to interact with and assist individuals with disabilities. This can lead to misunderstandings, discrimination, and a lack of empathy. Providing comprehensive training on disability awareness and etiquette is essential to creating a more welcoming and inclusive travel experience for everyone.

Above & Beyond With U: Funding and Promoting Accessible Events

Jenna Udenberg's nonprofit, Above & Beyond With U, is dedicated to funding and promoting accessible events in communities across the country. The organization provides grants to organizations and individuals who are working to create inclusive events that are accessible to people of all abilities. This includes funding for things like sign language interpreters, accessible transportation, and adaptive equipment. This allows the ability to hold events in locations that are easier for those with mobility problems, as well as communication solutions for those that are hearing impaired.

By supporting accessible events, Above & Beyond With U is not only helping to create more inclusive communities but also raising awareness about the importance of accessibility. The organization's work is a powerful example of how small investments can have a big impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities. The organization also partners with other organizations to provide resources and training on how to plan and implement accessible events. By working collaboratively, Above & Beyond With U is helping to build a more inclusive and equitable society.

If you are interested in supporting Above & Beyond With U, you can donate to the organization through their website or purchase a copy of Jenna Udenberg's book, "Within My Spokes: A Tapestry of Pain, Growth and Freedom." Proceeds from book sales go to support the organization's work. Every donation, regardless of size, helps to make a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities.

Within My Spokes: Sharing Trauma and Promoting Understanding

Jenna Udenberg's book, "Within My Spokes: A Tapestry of Pain, Growth and Freedom," is a powerful and moving account of her life with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. In the book, Jenna shares her personal experiences with pain, disability, and discrimination, as well as her resilience, strength, and determination. By sharing her story, Jenna hopes to promote understanding and empathy for individuals with disabilities and inspire others to advocate for a more inclusive world.

Writing about trauma can be a challenging and healing process. In "Within My Spokes," Jenna navigates this process with honesty, vulnerability, and grace. She shares her raw emotions and experiences, while also offering insights and reflections on the lessons she has learned. The book is not only a personal memoir but also a powerful testament to the human spirit's capacity for healing and growth. It is a book for everyone, regardless of their background or experience with disability.

The audiobook version of "Within My Spokes" is currently in progress and will provide an even more accessible way for people to experience Jenna's story. By making the book available in multiple formats, Jenna is ensuring that her message reaches the widest possible audience. The audiobook will be narrated by Jenna herself, adding an additional layer of authenticity and emotion to the story.

Resources for Further Exploration

There are many resources available for individuals and organizations who are interested in learning more about accessibility. Here are a few examples:

• Above & Beyond With U (nonprofit): aboveandbeyondwithu.org
• Book: Within My Spokes: A Tapestry of Pain, Growth and Freedom by Jenna Udenberg
• Bush Foundation & Bush Fellowship (MN/ND/SD & tribal nations)
• Disability history & docs: Ed Roberts; Judith Heumann; Crip Camp film; Section 504, IDEA, ADA

These resources can provide valuable information and guidance on how to create more accessible environments, programs, and services. Accessibility is an ongoing process, and it's important to stay informed about the latest best practices and technologies.

Making Accessibility the Norm

Ultimately, the goal is to make accessibility the norm, not the exception. This requires a fundamental shift in mindset, from viewing accessibility as a compliance issue to recognizing it as a core value. It also requires a commitment from individuals, organizations, and governments to prioritize accessibility in all aspects of society. By working together, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to participate fully and equally in all aspects of life.

Making accessibility the norm also requires ongoing education and awareness. Many people are simply not aware of the challenges that individuals with disabilities face or the simple steps they can take to make their environments more accessible. By raising awareness and providing education, we can help to break down barriers and create a more inclusive society. It starts with individual choices and expands to systemic change when these choices are amplified. Be the change.

In conclusion, embracing a "committed" approach to accessibility is essential for creating a truly inclusive and equitable society. By moving beyond mere compliance and actively seeking to understand and address the needs of individuals with disabilities, we can foster innovation, break down barriers, and create a world where everyone belongs. As Jenna Udenberg so powerfully illustrates in our latest podcast episode, this shift in mindset is not only possible but also transformative.