Breaking Barriers: What's Possible With Manitoba Possible

·28 min·2 clips

Darren Luke explains why accessibility goes far beyond ramps and automatic doors.

The episode begins with host Darren Luke introducing himself as a training coordinator at Manitoba Possible, setting the stage for a discussion on accessibility. He immediately challenges the common misconception that accessibility is only about physical barriers like ramps, explaining it includes attitudinal barriers such as stereotypes and overprotection. Darren provides examples, like assuming people with disabilities cannot do housework or sports, and shares his experience playing fledge hockey, a full-contact sport. He details his role in educating organizations on customer service for people with various disabilities, including deaf, blind, mobility, and neurodivergent individuals. A key moment is Darren's personal story about a man in Polo Park who, despite being asked not to help, tried to force his wheelchair into a car, cutting Darren's chin and requiring four stitches. This illustrates the importance of asking before assisting. The conversation shifts to Manitoba Possible's programs, with Darren listing 15 initiatives, including Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, Employment Preparation, and the new Care Possible website for finding support workers. He notes the organization's 75-year history, originating from wartime programs for veterans. Darren highlights significant developments in accessibility, such as the Accessibility in Manitoba Act (AMA) passed in 2013, which covers transportation, customer service, and public spaces. He discusses the growth of sledge hockey, started by Bill Boulogne, from 6 to nearly 100 athletes, with multiple athletes reaching national levels. Challenges include rural accessibility, like improvements at Pisou Falls in Thompson, and winter issues in Winnipeg, such as snow removal affecting mobility. Darren contrasts Canada's progress with the United States, mentioning the strong ADA legislation but expressing confusion over potential pullbacks in DEI efforts. He emphasizes Manitoba Possible's commitment to accessibility, with features like strobe lights for deaf individuals. The episode ends with Darren inviting contact via email and stressing the goal of equal rights, using examples like inadequate accessible seating at the new Bomber Stadium.

As heard by us

Accessibility reaches beyond ramps when attitudes, services, and public spaces shape who can participate.

Accessibility sits at the center of this conversation with Darren Luke, a training coordinator at Manitoba Possible, and the episode is clearest when it treats access as more than a question of ramps, elevators, curbs, or seating.

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Why you'd press play

You want a clearer picture of accessibility as something bigger than ramps, with Manitoba Possible as your guide.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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