Anna Zivarts, author and advocate for accessible communities, discusses her work to build a coalition of non-drivers, aiming to create a world free from car dependency. She highlights the daily challenges of disabled individuals, the elderly, and children in navigating a car-centric society. Anna shares inspiring stories of advocacy for transportation equity and the importance of community engagement. Hear about initiatives like the Week Without Driving Challenge that empower non-drivers and promote inclusive transit systems, fostering independence and dignity for all.
Building coalitions for advocacy significantly enhances community accessibility, catering to the diverse needs of non-drivers like disabled individuals and older adults.
Incorporating personal stories into advocacy efforts effectively highlights the struggles of non-drivers, creating a more relatable narrative to support policy change.
Deep dives
Building Accessible Communities for Non-Drivers
Creating accessible communities for individuals who do not drive is crucial for promoting independence among disabled people, older adults, and other non-drivers. Ana Ziverts emphasizes the importance of building coalitions to advocate for inclusive transit systems that cater to the needs of these groups. To demonstrate the widespread impact of car dependency, it is noted that around one-third of the U.S. population does not have a driver's license, highlighting the need for alternative transportation solutions. The conversation centers on the shared interests of various non-driver groups, suggesting that collaborative advocacy efforts can lead to more comprehensive and effective changes in urban planning and transportation policies.
The Importance of Storytelling in Advocacy
Storytelling plays a significant role in advocacy efforts for the non-driving community, as personal narratives help bring attention to the struggles faced by these individuals. For instance, Ana shares the story of Abby Griffith, a blind woman who transitioned from a life of isolation in rural Washington to becoming an advocate for transit access in Portland. Such stories help emphasize the emotional and practical implications of transportation challenges, making it easier to engage with a wider audience. By incorporating these personal experiences into advocacy work, it is possible to create a more relatable and compelling narrative that can drive policy change.
Collaborative Efforts for Non-Drivers
Promoting collaboration among diverse advocacy groups is essential to addressing the needs of non-drivers effectively. Ana discusses the potential conflict between bike advocacy and the needs of the blind community, particularly concerning sidewalk accessibility and the design of bike lanes. By fostering partnerships with bike and pedestrian advocacy groups, the potential for creating better, more inclusive urban environments is enhanced. Additionally, state and local governments are encouraged to recruit non-drivers to participate in transportation planning, ensuring that the experiences and needs of those affected are considered in decision-making.
To kick off this season, Qudsiya sits down with Anna Zivarts, the author of When Driving Is Not An Option: Steering Away From Car Dependency. Anna shares how she has helped to build a coalition of non-drivers to create more accessible communities where disabled people, older adults, children, and so many others can move freely without a car.
She also offers some helpful tips about advocating for more inclusive transit systems so that we can all get around with independence and dignity.