Disabled Riders Protest RGRTA, Say Stop Violating Federal Law!

Disabled riders fed up with continued violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protested Friday, April 16, 2009, at the headquarters of Rochester Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA), Rochester, New York's public transportation authority.

Federal law violations such as bus pass-ups of passengers in wheelchairs on the fixed-route system, known as RTS, trip denials on Lift Line, the para-transit system, as well as the general attitude of disrespect and disdain for people with disabilities exhibited by many bus operators and RGRTA upper management were major issues that disability rights activists had been trying for years to work with RGRTA to address and resolve.

I was one of the angry activists whose bad experiences with the bus company led to participation in the rain-soaked protest.

It was sunny and warm as we gathered a few blocks away, donned signs, and marched to the protest site. As we neared their headquarters, we were greeted by an amazing sight - a group of RGRTA personnel who supported our cause, clapping and shouting words of encouragement!

Upon reaching the front entrance we lined up and began loudly chanting, "RTS says they don't care. They won't take us anywhere!" A reporter from the Democrat and Chronicle, our local newspaper, was already there, and quickly began interviewing some of our members. He was joined by reporters from two TV stations, and the public radio station.

As the chants continued, the sky darkened, and it began to rain. Undeterred, we chanted louder. "It's our ADA, Lift Line must comply today" filled the air as the soft rain became a steady downpour. Passersby in cars and trucks honked their horns to show their support as some of us handed out fliers.

After some time, a negotiation team entered the building to speak to RGRTA staff and present our demands. While the team was inside, the demands were read aloud to the group outside. We are calling for:

• A meeting with the RGRTA Board of Commissioners
• Full RGRTA compliance with federal public transit access requirements
• An end to Lift Line ride denials due to capacity constraints through contracts with cab companies for ambulatory customers
• Sensitivity training for RTS and Lift Line drivers provided by people with disabilities.

A few minutes later, the negotiation team emerged. The news was not good. RGRTA staff would not co-operate. Infuriated at this latest dismissal, the action was "bumped up" to include civil disobedience. Activists began blocking the entrance to the building, as well as the driveway to the parking lot and bus garage. Though staff tried to physically remove us, they were unsuccessful. Though all of this, our people remained peaceful and non-violent.

When the police arrived, we agreed to leave the street, but would not give up the doors. The police negotiation team, of which I was a part, spoke to the police and asked them for assistance with negotiating with RGRTA to at least agree to a meeting in the future between some of our members and the Executive Committee of the RGRTA Board of Commissioners.

Finally, as a sign of good faith the doors were released, and the police sergeant went inside to speak to someone regarding the demands. The result was that the staffer agreed to reach out to Mark Aesch, CEO of RGRTA, about our issues. It was also suggested that we contact the Board of Commissioners through Mr. Aesch.

Disabled advocates are very familiar with the CEO, having met with him on numerous occasions. It is clear that he is very unresponsive to the needs of customers with disabilities. Our struggle with RGRTA will continue until the violations of the ADA end, and riders with disabilities are treated with dignity and respect.

Sources:

Personal Experience