I had something happen (on July 1) that I’d like to write about. Living with a mobility impairment, whether using a wheelchair or a disability scooter, reveals a fascinating aspect of human behaviour: ambivalence. Despite increased awareness and advocacy for accessibility, together with the fact that how I am I am VERY visibly-disabled, there remains a surprising number of people who display an indifference to the challenges with my mobility issues.
This indifference often manifests in subtle, everyday interactions, such as not holding the door open.
It’s puzzling and disheartening to experience such lack of consideration, especially in a society that prides itself on progress and inclusivity. The reasons for this ambivalence are varied. Some people might be preoccupied with their own lives, unaware of the assistance they could offer. Others may feel awkward or unsure about how to help, fearing they might offend or patronize.
This ambivalence can create a sense of isolation for individuals with mobility impairments. Every unheld door, every sidewalk blocked by a thoughtlessly parked bike, serves as a reminder of the societal gap in understanding and empathy. However, it’s important to acknowledge that not everyone is indifferent. Many people do go out of their way to assist, demonstrating that kindness and consideration do exist.
To bridge this gap, we need continuous efforts in education and awareness. Encouraging empathy, teaching the importance of small acts of kindness, and promoting a culture of mindfulness can make a significant difference. By sharing our experiences and advocating for better understanding, we can slowly turn ambivalence into action, fostering a more inclusive and supportive community for everyone.
Thanks for sharing your experiences, Robert. Certainly it’s food for thought.
Most definitely, because it’s mind-numbing how some people are, that they’re effectively completely ambivalent.
This is a great piece, Wein! Ambivalence sounds a whole lot like privilege, meaning that those of us who do not have a disability are the privileged ones, and whether there are disability supports or measures in place somewhere really don’t matter to the able bodied, so being ambivalent is really just living in that privilege. Those of us with privilege must to be mindful of those without this privilege and we quite frankly need to do better. I’ll definitely share your post with my Diversity and Inclusion Office here at National Defence. Thanks!
I think you’ve hit the nail on the head, that those who are ambivalent are effectively just living in the “privilege” that some people think of not being disabled. I’m happy that you’ll share it!
Thoughtful commentary Rob as society needs to slow down. I see ambivalence often in company of ignorance, fear and laziness. All this to say I agree that respect and acknowledging a person of limited mobility by way of action, no matter how small the gesture, has value.
I’ll be honest in that I was pretty much completely blown away at how often I was simply “not seen”, and what I needed help with was simply walked on by. In hindsight I think that for the most part, people had their noses in their phones. I honestly don’t know how they walked without hitting or tripping over something, but I think that how society is what’s in their phones is more important than pretty much everything else. I watched Simon Sinek’s talk on it ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpjSEY3pe7U ) and totally get it. That’s why I not only not look at my phone when I’m with someone, but put it away.
Well said Rob.
Thank you!