by Tova Sherman
As the cold winter season is upon us here in Canada, I can think of no better time to share some practices I recommend to allies who wish to be proactive in equalizing the playing field for our community of persons with disability(s). When I say equalize, I really mean fair and equitable. Why? Because equality is about being equal in status, rights and opportunities, whereas equity concerns how we achieve it – through fairness and impartiality. Equality sets the ground rules for creating a fair playing field, but it needs equity to make sure that everyone can compete on that field.
In Nova Scotia we have the highest per capita population of persons with all types of disabilities in the country, and over 65% of disabilities reported are physical in nature. For many folks, this can make navigating our neighbourhoods difficult. In warmer months, we often recommend keeping an eye out for hazards and obstructions, and contacting 311 to report potential problems to the city to be dealt with. But when winter sets in, obstructions and danger spots quickly add up. Fortunately, many of these issues can be dealt with quickly and easily by friends and neighbours who have the physical capacity to help, and the sense to watch out for these dangers before somebody gets stuck or hurt.
Having asked around my own friends and neighbours, I have compiled my top 5 tips for disability allies/considerate neighbours to follow during the winter months:
1. Consider how easy (or not) is it to pass in front of your house after some snow has accumulated. It’s helpful for those with vision loss, balance issues, or who use mobility devices to have a sidewalk-width level area to pass safely. The issue here is not a simple matter of width but for many folks with visual impairments the terrain is different and they are now facing the unknown. Shovelling your sidewalk clear down to bare cement and spreading a layer of salt is the easiest way you can make your part of the street that much safer to pass.
2. Municipalities and home owners alike must consider curb access. Imagine someone you know with mobility issues. Could they cross the street without walking or rolling over snow and ice? Snow and ice often pack up at corners, often because plows and snowblowers are too large to effectively clear these areas down to bare cement. Do not be afraid to advocate for your neighbours in positive, helpful ways. This can mean contacting 311, or when it’s safe to do so, shovelling the area yourself. However you choose to help, remember to ask first!
3. Bus stops. Although our local transportation authority is in charge of these areas, it’s a lot of work after winter storms, and more hands make for lighter work. I have seen organizations create volunteer programs to help with this need. If you live near a bus stop and are clearing your sidewalk or driveway already, consider taking a few minutes and clearing a path to the bus stop. Maybe you’re interested in starting a shared project with folks in your neighbourhood keeping bus stops and other high foot traffic areas cleared of snow. If so, you can get some neighbours together yourself, or reach out to a community organization of your choice and see if they’d like to spearhead it.
4. Be mindful of entrances to homes and public spaces. A plowed parking lot or driveway is a great start, but a clear path of travel from that driveway or parking lot is just as necessary. Also, winter can get dark, keep that outside light on when expecting someone. (For public spaces, remember that a quick call to 311 can get broken lighting taken care of quickly!) A well-lit entry makes all the difference in the slippery season, and is an effective safety feature year round as well.
5. Be neighbourly. We all need assistance at one point or another. If you see someone struggling with snow clearing or navigating wintery sidewalks, asking if you can help is always okay. However, don’t get offended or insist if the person says no! Just because someone looks like they might be struggling doesn’t always mean they don’t take pride and enjoyment out of the effort they’re putting in. If someone says yes, then ask how you can best be of help.
These five tips will get you started being a chilly season ally, but there’s so much more we can do to help our neighbours out in the snowy months ahead. We want to hear your great ideas for being a snowy season ally, so let us know your ideas in the comments!
