Finding accessible housing can be a daunting task, as Michelle experienced firsthand. Although she now owns her home, her journey to find a suitable rental with basic accessibility was filled with frustration. Michelle often encountered landlords who, despite legal obligations, were hesitant to provide the accommodations she needed. While it’s illegal to deny someone housing based on their disability, navigating these conversations in real life is far more complex and disheartening.
Another challenge Michelle faced was how people responded when she sought advice. Rather than being asked what neighborhood she wanted to live in, she was often directed to areas where “a lot of people in wheelchairs live.” This assumption disregarded her personal preferences, leaving her feeling isolated in a new city where she was only familiar with certain neighborhoods.
For Michelle, the struggle wasn’t just about finding accessible housing; it was about maintaining her autonomy and choice in where she wanted to live. The experience highlighted a significant issue: accessible housing shouldn’t limit someone’s options to specific areas, but instead, all housing should be inclusive, allowing everyone to choose the neighborhood that best suits their lifestyle.
Her story underscores the need for greater awareness, understanding, and enforcement of accessibility rights in the rental housing market, ensuring that no one must settle for less simply because they have a disability.
