Tuesday 4 August
About Nerida: Nerida is a PWDA member and a wheelchair user with a complex array of disabilities. Nerida is passionate about sharing her observations and experiences through poetry.
Nerida’s poem, ‘Barriers’, highlights the everyday obstacles that many people with disability continue to face when accessing shops, restaurants and public spaces. Through a mix of honesty, humour and hope, “Barriers” encourage readers to think about the importance of inclusion and creating communities where everyone can participate.
‘Barriers’ – a poem by Nerida Kingsford
“No”. You can’t come in here.
You will have to go around the rear.
And oops, sorry the lift is broken.
Do you know if it will be fixed and when?
Surely, accessing a shop or building is for everyone.
To have no way in is not fun. Why?
What if I wear a tie?
Or bring you some apple pie? 🥧
A simple ramp will do.
It will benefit everyone, including you.
So please be inclusive for everyone and let us in.
Having such barriers means nobody will win.
Think of how you would feel.
If you couldn’t get in a restaurant for a meal.
Or go to your favourite shop
to buy a mop or a top
& you can’t get in the door at all.
It makes my feelings hit the wall.
Spare a thought for your community.
Think how pleasing that would be.
To be barrier free.
For everyone including me.
About Nerida: Nerida is a PWDA member and a wheelchair user with a complex array of disabilities. Nerida is passionate about sharing her observations and experiences through poetry.
PWDA members are the heart and soul of our organisation. We encourage all people with disability, residing in Australia to join our community of thousands of people with disability across Australia.
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