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On Jan. 2, members of the Solidarity Against Disability Discrimination (SADD) held a protest at Samgakji Station on Seoul Metro lines 4 and 6. SADD members failed to get on the subway, and the confrontation caused major issues because the group inconvenienced citizens getting on and off the train during the morning rush hour.
SADD members demand that the government allocate a budget to expand the mobility rights of people with disabilities, and they have held demonstrations in the Seoul subway since the end of 2021. The conflict has escalated.
This incident highlights the ongoing struggle faced by individuals with disabilities in our society. Despite numerous legal protections and advancements in technology, people with disabilities continue to face discrimination and barriers to equal treatment and opportunities.
The protest at Samgakji Station is a reminder that disabled individuals often face significant difficulties when trying to access public transportation. This can include a lack of accessible infrastructure, such as elevators, ramps and Braille signage, as well as insensitive attitudes from transit staff and other commuters. These barriers make it harder for people with disabilities to lead independent, fulfilling lives and participate fully in society.
In 2004, the Korean government promised to install an elevator at every subway station in Seoul but as of yet, it has fallen short. Fifteen years have passed since the Disability Discrimination Act was enacted, and despite the fact that some political circles show signs of subtle changes, Korea still has a long way to go. I have witnessed numerous obstacles that are impossible for disabled people to even pass without the help of someone else, and it was heartening to see members of SADD taking a stand and advocating for their rights. Their actions bring attention to the need for greater awareness and action on the issue of disability discrimination.
However, while the claims and positions of SADD members are understood, there is some doubt about whether the means used to enforce them are appropriate. The frequent SADD demonstrations in the subway, which is also used by many citizens during peak commute times, have caused harm to many citizens as they disrupt subway operations.
Moreover, those who need social consideration are not just people with disabilities ― many other people and groups also exist. It appears that a deeper understanding is needed as to whether the level of consideration that people with disabilities are demanding is within the ability of the government to manage.
The protests by SADD serve as a call to action for all of us to work towards a more inclusive society that values and respects the rights of disabled individuals. Let us strive to create a world where everyone, regardless of ability, has an equal opportunity to live, work and play. However, the method should be changed so that a more mature and ethical way is created that causes less harm to others.
The writer is an 11th grader at Saint Paul Preparatory Seoul, looking to pursue a career in journalism.
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