BY KRISTIN BRITTAIN
Lions’ Pride Editor

According to the Code of Conduct Book, Saint Leo University should “provide an environment that does not discriminate against persons with disabilities.” However, in my experience, that statement only holds true if you have two perfectly working legs.

Unfortunately, mine don’t.

Next to the staircase in Saint Francis Hall, perhaps there should be a sign detailing how to properly descend a flight of stairs using either a wheelchair or a set of crutches… a sort of “how to” guide would be perfect. It is easy to feel ostracized with a disability, and it is even easier when regular activities, such as going to class or visiting a teacher’s office, is prohibited due to the location’s inaccessibility. Saint Francis Hall is a perfect example; it is a three floor building that not only lacks an elevator but any sort of ramp on the east side, as well.

Not only is there a classroom located in the basement of Saint Francis Hall, but there are adjunct offices at the bottom of the staircase also. Not too long ago, The Lions’ Pride advisor’s office was located within that inaccessible realm. Good thing a student in a wheelchair never wanted to work on the newspaper. As a “leading Catholic teaching University,” shouldn’t Saint Leo hold itself up to its own standards? The elevators around campus are another problem. There have been several situations when the elevator in the Student Activities Building has not been working. Stopping by the Learning Resource Center has always been an inconvenience; it will go up but forget about wanting to go back down?

And let’s not forget about the parking issues in the apartment area. Everyone knows there is a long row in the front of the lot with spots for handicap parking. Everyone is supposed to know those spots are for the students who actually need them. However, on more than one occasion, there have been people parked in those spots who don’t have the proper license plate or decal designating them the right to park there. Because of this, I have had to find parking in the back lot, sometimes as far back as the grassy hills. It’s unfortunate that people feel the need to put their laziness over those who actually benefit from those parking spots. People do not realize how lucky they are that they don’t actually need those decals.

If speed plus efficiency equals productivity, wouldn’t accessibility for everyone create a more cohesive and productive collegiate environment?

Strides are being made to make the university more accessible. A few years ago, one of the two paths adjoining Saint Edwards and Saint Francis halls was leveled out. A ramp now exists on the west side of Saint Francis Hall. However, as for right now, I will have to remember the next time my arthritis kicks in, to avoid going by Saint Francis to speak to a teacher or to attend class. Oh, and I will most definitely steer clear of the Learning Resource Center; otherwise, I might get stuck on the second floor for a half hour.

Saint Leo’s Code of Conduct Book states that “the University recognizes its obligations under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990,” but does it really?