We and Inclusion: Building a Truly “Barrier-Free” Society

A ramp serves not only wheelchair users but also parents pushing strollers and travelers pulling luggage. This is the essence of “barrier-free design”—it ultimately benefits each and every one of us. Today, we won’t discuss wheelchairs themselves, but rather the society we all share beyond them.

Tangible Barriers vs. Intangible Barriers

Tangible Barriers: These are the most obvious. For example: steps without ramps, overly narrow pathways, inaccessible restrooms, service counters that are too high. These physical barriers directly exclude certain individuals.

Invisible Barriers: These are often more hurtful. They include strange or pitying looks, impatient remarks, employment discrimination, and unconscious exclusion in social activities. These attitudinal barriers are harder to dismantle than physical ones.

What can we do?

As a business/venue:
Examine your space. Does the entrance have a ramp? Are pathways wide enough? Is there at least one accessible restroom? These aren’t “extra expenses”—they’re essential investments to attract a broader customer base.

As individuals:

Equal engagement: When interacting with wheelchair users, maintain eye contact (ideally sit down to talk if possible) and address them directly, not through their companion.

Ask before assisting: “May I offer assistance?” and follow their instructions if they agree. Never assume you can push their wheelchair without permission.

Keep pathways clear: Do not park vehicles or place obstacles in front of accessible pathways, ramps, or restrooms.

Building an inclusive society doesn’t mean creating “special accommodations” for a minority. It means adopting a “universal design” mindset to create environments that are equally accessible and convenient for everyone. When we remove barriers for wheelchair users, we pave the way for a kinder, more civilized future.