Reading a news story that today’s World Cup 2010 Final may be the most watched event in world history inspired a reflection or two over morning coffee.
Obviously all eyes will be on the field. Yet I hope somewhere somehow the absence of disabled fans is noticed. Why is accessible seating always expendable? Of the 87,000 seats at Soccer City Stadium there were only 118.
“FIFA … guideline was that between 1 and 0.5% of the stadium's seating capacity had to be reserved for wheelchair-bound spectators. An equal number of seats had to be provided for their assistants….
I’ll do the math for you. Soccer City Stadium should have between 870 and 435 spaces for wheelchairs and an equal number of companion seats. 118 is disgraceful.
Politicians, celebrities and performers love to bring attention to wrongs when running for office, when they have to something to sell, or when ‘talking’ about some cause. Yet their faces smile back through countless photos from World Cup games. Remember that smiling collusion when it comes to believing their support of people with disabilities.
Hey World! Fans roll as well as walk!
Those living with Esclerosis Múltiple in Spain or Multiple Sclerose in Netherlands struggle every day as heroically if not more than healthy athletes during a game. Imagine no time limits on duration.
Refelctions aside, grab a vuvuzela, make a lot of noise and escape into the beautiful game!
The potentially most viewed event in history is totally accessible on television. Ole ole ole ole!
Caregivingly Yours, Patrick Leer
