Glenda Hyatt and her husband Darryl Hyatt, both reliant on electric mobility aids, encountered obstacles trying to vote in Surrey’s civic election. Despite their efforts, they struggled to access the voting station, facing stairs and a grassy hill. Glenda, who had previously suffered an injury due to uneven ground, decided against risking further harm and they left without casting their votes.
Feeling discriminated against, Glenda expressed her frustration and disappointment as they departed the voting location at Kwantlen Park Secondary School. They reached a dead-end with no assistance available and no clear wheelchair-accessible route or signage provided.
In response to accessibility concerns raised, Surrey’s chief election officer, Gib van Ert, mentioned plans to enhance signage, guide voters to accessible entrances, and offer curbside voting options to ensure all residents can participate in the election. The city acknowledged the need to improve communication and visibility of accessibility measures at the voting station.
Advocate Spencer van Vloten highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by people with disabilities in accessing voting stations, emphasizing the importance of inclusive public spaces. He stressed the need for ramps, clear paths, accessible parking, proper signage, and facilities at voting locations to ensure equal participation. Van Vloten emphasized that addressing accessibility issues is crucial for effective decision-making and urged elected officials to prioritize accessibility in policymaking.