HAPPY New Year CNMI! Now that the firework dust has settled and the champagne bottles are hopefully being recycled, perhaps now is an opportune time to revisit our New Year’s resolution. Did we decide to eat healthier? Or start a new fitness journey? Or maybe even start treating people with more kindness and compassion? With that in mind, let us reflect on how we can make positive changes in our lives and contribute to the creation of a more inclusive and considerate community. One area where we can have an immediate impact is to show respect for our people with disabilities who often include our manamko’ by simply not parking in accessible spaces designated for persons with mobility limitations.
Allow me to shed light on a matter that holds great significance, especially for a friend of mine, John Allen, who relies on a wheelchair for mobility — from as soon as he gets up from bed to the moment he goes back to sleep. This wheelchair, which is an extension of him, gets him from one place to the other, just as we would in our means. However, when we do get to our needed destinations, such as our place of employment or a store, a glaring bright blue painted area should catch your attention. The blue-marked accessibility parking spaces serve as a lifeline for individuals like him, providing essential room to maneuver safely and ensuring convenient access to such establishments and facilities.
Regrettably, it has come to our attention that perfectly healthy individuals without any mobility limitations continue to park in these spaces without proper authorization and/or obstruct vital routes such as ramps. While it might seem like a quick and convenient solution for a brief stop, this practice creates significant challenges for those who depend on these spaces for their daily activities. Imagine needing one of those parking spots and every time you go to use it, it’s occupied by someone who does not have a disability, but just needs to “grab something really quick.” Not only does it violate the law, but it also shows a lack of understanding for those who depend on these spaces. It’s not just about moving freely; it’s about being part of a community that values everyone equally. Hence, we are calling for more enforcement of these violations by our police department, as individuals who commit these violations should be ticketed and fined.
In response to this issue, we would like to propose to everyone this simple yet impactful New Year’s resolution for our entire community that we have utilized and advocated for many of our clients and individuals with disabilities: “Don’t park in the blue if it’s not for you.” This short tagline speaks volumes for all to understand. If the accessible parking space is not for you, meaning that you do not have an accessible parking placard, do not park there. That means it is reserved for someone who does need it. By adhering to this resolution, we can collectively ensure that accessible parking spaces remain available for those who genuinely need them, fostering an environment characterized by empathy and understanding.
Let us consider the profound impact that this resolution can have on the lives of individuals with disabilities. Let’s work together to create a community where everyone can move freely and independently, regardless of their limitations. As we continue our journey into 2024, let’s embrace this resolution and make it a year of positive change and inclusivity for all, one accessible parking space at a time.
For more information on accessible parking please call Northern Marianas Protection and Advocacy Systems Inc. at (670) 235-7273/4, visit us online at www.nmpasi.org, or stop in at our new location, Marianas Business Plaza, 5th floor Room 505.
CLEO NENING
Programs Coordinator
NMPASI
