Combating Isolation in the Milwaukee Disabled Community
Manage episode 508233971 series 3351953
We're joined by two passionate disability inclusion coordinators from Milwaukee's Jewish Community Center who share their mission of creating meaningful opportunities for adults with disabilities. With over 150 programs annually, they're focused on what truly matters: combating isolation and ensuring people with disabilities have authentic life experiences and community connections.
The conversation takes an unexpected turn when we explore the hierarchy of accessibility needs. Should there be an "extreme handicap" designation for those with severe mobility limitations? While acknowledging the frustration of seeing accessibility features misused, our guests remind us about the danger of making assumptions when "we don't know everybody's story." This tension between advocating for those with significant needs while respecting invisible disabilities highlights the complexity of creating truly inclusive spaces.
We also explore Milwaukee's accessibility landscape, from retrofitted historic buildings to the new downtown tram called "the Hop" that's revolutionizing mobility.
What emerges is a powerful reminder that disability advocacy isn't just about physical access—it's about belonging. As someone paralyzed from the neck down and breathing through a machine, I've learned that breaking through walls means refusing to let obstacles define your path. Whether you're part of the disability community or an ally, this episode will challenge you to see accessibility in a new light.
Subscribe now and join our growing community of listeners who believe in living life to the max, regardless of the barriers we face. And please, take a breath for me.
Chapters
1. Speedcast Intro at Abilities Expo (00:00:00)
2. Meeting Milwaukee JCC Inclusion Team (00:00:44)
3. Breaking Through Walls Perspective (00:01:35)
4. Discussing Extreme Accessibility Needs (00:03:37)
5. Milwaukee's Accessibility Progress (00:05:13)
91 episodes