ABC-7 Listens: 08.01.15

the americans with disabilities act is celebrating its 25th anniversary, but as we reported this week … some strongly believe “equal access” is still not a reality. rick cabrera shares an example in abc-7 listens. earlier this week we told you the paso del norte civil rights project was filing 3 lawsuits on behalf of disabled el pasoans. we also shared the story of rosemary hahn … who wasn’t able to park near her son’s soccer game at the westside sports complex … despite having handicapped license plates … because she said the security guard wanted to see a wheelchair or walker. apparently rosemary wasn’t alone. from guadalupe … “the 2 security guards at the gate asked me what my disability was. then i was told that if i didn’t need to use a wheelchair, walker or crutches i was not allowed to park!! “i then told them was going to report the incident. “he smirked and said to go ahead with the report. he said he was doing what he was told to do.” i don’t doubt that these security guards were just following orders … and i know people using handicapped parking spots … when they don’t have a disability is troubling and upsetting. and currently law enforcement is the only authority that can approach and question someone. but, let’s be clear about something … security guards are not trained nor should they be required to determine whether someone is disabled. based on the texas d-m-v’s website .. you can qualify for a disabled placard if you have extremely poor vision … or mobility problems caused by: paralysis lung disease cardiac deficiency arthritis foot disorder i can tell you right now … a security guard is not qualified to determine if a person has lung disease, cardiac deficiency or even arthritis. that’s a doctor’s job and the state also has to give the okay. who knows what will come of these lawsuits … but i hope the clear lack of respect shown these women with disabilities stops now. rick cabrera. abc-7 listens. don’t forget to join us later on today for our annual save-a-life humane