“Accessibility Is a Right, Not a Luxury: Demand Compliance with NYS Elevator Modernization and ADA Laws!

 “IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT ALL our voices be heard during Imeetings. We cannot continue to be ignored for over five years; it is our RIGHT AND OUR RESPONSIBILITY to  express our thoughts and concerns AS HOMEOWNERS.”
   Please HELPThis Protect the Elderly and Disabled from Neglect and Inaction in Our Buildings. EVERYONE MUST FOLLOW ADA LAWS AND NYS DISABILITY 

 For the past few weeks, my family and I have been in a distressing situation. My parents and I face mobility challenges due to chronic illnesses.

Recently, during an elevator modernization project in our building, my elderly parents have been effectively trapped in their home for the past two weeks and will likely remain there for another four to six weeks. They are unable to use the elevator, which is out of service for four to eight weeks, or navigate the multiple stairs. They must attend multiple weekly appointments with their physicians.

In March, the coop was informed of our disability access needs. However, they have never provided us or other elderly or disabled residents with any alternatives on how to navigate the stairs to visit their physicians. This lack of alternatives has contributed to an exacerbation of their chronic illnesses.

The coop has failed to provide us with any solutions on how we, or other elderly or disabled residents, can safely and conveniently move up and down our own homes. This is essentially making us hostages in our own apartments.

This situation is not unique to us. Many buildings across the city are undertaking similar modernization projects without considering the special needs of individuals with disabilities. Elevators are crucial for those who cannot use stairs, so it is vital to establish temporary accessibility solutions during any modernization process.

We urgently need legislation mandating that any building engaged in elevator modernization work must provide interim accessibility solutions. Portable or makeshift ramps, stairlifts, or even temporary elevator services should be considered mandatory to ensure that all residents, regardless of ability, can move freely and safely during these updates.

Another pressing issue we are facing is that since Covid our cooperative community has been stifled due to virtual coop board meetings till this day that exclude shareholders’ input. We should be able to voice our opinions and concerns openly in person or have the option to go virtual as well. During these past meetings, us shareholders are muted entirely, effectively silencing our voices and disempowering us from participating in discussions that directly impact our lives. We are to type any questions or comments which usually are not even read. 

It’s time for change in coop boards! We need a new board that will uphold democratic principles by allowing shareholders to communicate and contribute effectively during in person and virtual  meetings. Ensuring everyone has a voice at the table is crucial, especially when decisions affect our entire community. We all have the same rights and a board shall look after our best interest. 

By signing this petition, you advocate for disability rights and fair representation. It ensures that every resident, regardless of their capabilities, can live with dignity and participate fully in their community. Join us in demanding the changes we need. Thank you for your support and your time