What’s Happening in Your Town?

What’s going well in your community?

Accessibility is more than a ramp. 

When I take my daughter Aysia into our community, I do not just think about whether a place has an accessible entrance. I think about the entire experience.

Aysia is 24, uses a wheelchair, needs significant assistance with her daily care, and communicates without words. She has a voice. We have simply learned how to listen to her.

I am encouraged by the accessibility improvements happening in Gwinnett County. Discovery Park in Lawrenceville is being developed with an inclusive playground, accessible pathways, trails, parking, and restroom facilities. I truly celebrate that progress.

But my experience has taught me that accessibility is more than a ramp, a parking space, or an accessible playground.

For Aysia, I have to ask: Can she use the restroom? Can her caregiver safely assist her? Is there enough space for her wheelchair? Can she receive the personal care she needs with dignity?

A restroom can meet ADA requirements and still not meet the needs of every person with a disability.

I am not sharing this to criticize. I want us to continue building on the progress we are making.

When we design parks and public spaces, I hope we will ask people with disabilities and their families what they need before the plans are finished.

Because inclusion is not just about whether someone can get in.

It is about whether they can participate, stay, receive the support they need, and truly feel like they belong.

That is the community I want for Aysia and for all of her friends.

Living in Gwinnett has given Aysia and our family more opportunities to get out, enjoy our community, and experience things together. I’m encouraged by the growth of accessible parks, recreation programs, trails, and inclusive spaces. Seeing projects like Discovery Park include accessibility features gives me hope for an even more welcoming community.

For me, true inclusion means more than being able to enter a place. It means being able to participate, enjoy the experience, and feel like you belong. I’m excited about the progress we’re making and hopeful that we will continue listening to people with disabilities and their families as we build an even more inclusive Gwinnett.