I don’t want to be a Victim

I am revisiting the Handicap Parking Space that is Out of Order.

Although my goal was clear, starting out, it became muddy along the way.

I wanted to bring the issue of the missing handicap parking sign to someone’s attention so it could be fixed. Fixed meant simply replacing the sign. A few bolts, a sign and a tool to tighten it all up is all it needed.

I called the store located nearest the sign and the management didn’t know who should fix it, but they would make a note. Then I got this bright idea about discovering the name and contact info for the person who owns the shopping center.

This all sounded good, a real plan, but yikes. I called the city. The city enforces codes, okays plans and should know who owns the place.

My call was passed on to someone. A few days later, I called someone else to try to gain information, this poor fellow tried passing me off to of all things, the police.

I emailed one of the city commissioners and this led to another contact. I gathered up the law on who is responsible for keeping up access and emailed it to one of the city contacts. Remember, all I really wanted was sign repair.

By this time, I am feeling very much like a victim. I get a return email later in the week that includes replies from still more city people all seeming to pass the buck.

As the buck passing was going on, there was parking lot repair happening right there within sight of the space. I took a phone number off of a truck and called it. At this point I discovered the name of the property manager and after some google work I know things about the guy that would totally creep him out.

I called the property manager and left a message.

The city folks got back to me and it seems they too have discovered the property managers and gave them a call. In a week or so, if they aren’t too busy, they will check on the sign and send them an actual written message about fixing it.

It is at this time I discover a bill that I helped introduce in Helena, and saw signed into law, is not being carried out in our awesome city.

A group of people with disabilities worked hard on making the inspection process on new constructions and remodels begin in the parking lot with the understanding that no matter how much access is put into a building, if people can’t get from their cars to the front door, then why bother?

Me? I can make my own parking, I enjoy the privilege of being able to walk most of the time, but other people less mobile than I will just have to fend for themselves.

I am leaving this issue because in order to effect change I have to become the victim and this is not a pleasant role. I left organizing for social change to those with thicker skin and more energy and this issue almost pulled me back into the horrid world of discrimination.

Me? A quitter? Well, maybe, or maybe I am choosing my battles. After all, the City Manager signs my husband’s check. When my husband retires, just to get one of us out of the house, I may revisit this lawsuit in waiting.

Thanks for staying with me as I back off and bide my time.