Returning Chautauquans may have noticed larger-than-usual crowds in the first two weeks this season; both saw some of the highest attendance for Weeks One and Two that we have seen in recent years. You might have also noticed that with more people on the grounds, there are more mobility devices as well. As mobility technology becomes more affordable and accessible, these devices effectively enhance patrons’ experience and even extend the years that they can come and enjoy Chautauqua, and that is worth much celebration.
Technology innovations can continue to enhance accessibility offerings, and in the coming weeks we will pilot test the addition of wifi-based assistive-listening devices where patrons will be able to use their own smart phones and headphones, eliminating the hassle of signing out an assistive-listening device.
We will continue to offer our current listening devices for those who prefer that service over using their own phones. If you are interested in helping us test this new technology and provide user feedback, please send an email to accessibility@chq.org.
The technology additions around accessibility are undoubtedly transforming our community and patron experience. I would suggest that we are a community in transition, learning how to develop and observe norms around sharing space and pathways as pedestrians, bikers, runners and users of scooters and wheelchairs, etc. I especially want to applaud the Chautauqua Property Owners’ Association in their recent revitalization of their “Shared Space” campaign.
This campaign is an effort to articulate the norms and values central to our mission and helps reify what kind of community we aspire to be. More information on this effort is available on the CPOA website.
As our patron base evolves, so should the norms of our community. We could take a rules-based approach telling people what not to do. Sometimes clarity on those guidelines can be helpful in creating new norms or evolving old ones.
However, often those rules become venue-specific or mere restrictions without articulating what to do. Alternatively, we can think more broadly and consider the question of what kind of community we want to become, and especially to include and honor the experience of everyone.
Instead of focusing on what we can’t do, let’s consider the possibilities of how we work together with an ethos of kindness, respect and understanding.
I am proposing that such an approach requires understanding and cooperation from all members of our community. Pedestrians and mobility device users can co-exist safely and respectfully, and even enhance each other’s experience.
For example, pedestrians might consider being mindful of mobility device users by allowing more passage space and not standing right in front of accessible entrances or curb cuts.
It might be especially helpful to know that some mobility scooters require a wider turning radius, and we can help increase accessibility by ensuring that objects are not blocking access to hallways, like garbage cans or water fountains.
Mobility device users can do their part by following safe operation practices at all times. Scooter safety recommendations and resources are at chq.org/mobility. Patrons who use mobility devices on a daily basis have suggested to me that reducing scooter speed in high traffic areas (such as Bestor Plaza, Odland Plaza or the Hall of Philosophy Grove), or inside venues is a common practice that could be adopted by all. In the coming days, we will launch friendly reminders in such areas via a new “Turn it toward the Turtle” campaign.
Most mobility devices come with a speed dial ranging from turtle to rabbit. When in doubt, “toward the turtle” will always be the better choice, as it allows for greater control of your device.
Additionally, scooter users are encouraged to always make sure that their devices are not blocking stairs or emergency exit pathways at all times. All patrons who rent devices from the Institution receive a safety demonstration at the time of the rental. Those who privately own scooters or are renting from an outside agency are welcome to contact Frank Finnerty at the Main Gate Welcome Center for best practices and safety tips, and especially so if you are new to using a mobility device.
I am quite grateful for our community for the little everyday acts that we collectively undertake to make Chautauqua more accessible.
May we continue to grow as a community that lives into the “best of human values.”
Amit Taneja
Senior Vice President
Chief Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility Officer
