Disability rights are civil rights. NY venues must do better
On a recent weekend, my husband and I were looking forward to a night out at the Capitol Theatre in Port Chester. He has multiple sclerosis and walks with a cane, so we planned ahead and arrived early. But instead of being greeted with hospitality, we were met with resistance.
I asked the security staff if my husband could bypass the long entrance line. Standing for extended periods is painful for him, and I assumed that, like airports, museums, and many concert venues, the theatre would have a simple process for guests with mobility challenges. Instead, we were told—flatly and without compassion—that he would have to wait like everyone else. When I asked for a supervisor, she walked away without saying a word.
By the time we finally entered, my husband was exhausted and in pain. I spoke to the manager, who apologized and encouraged me to file a formal complaint. I am doing so, but I’m also sharing this........
© The Leader
