What Does the Intl Symbol of Accessibility Actually Mean?

[jesse_the_k]

This 4:10 captioned video provides great background on the "wheelchair symbol," more formally known as the International Symbol of Accessibility. Using plain language, the presenter explains its history, application, why it applies to more than wheelchair users, and why it might need changing.

If you're disabled, how do you feel about this symbol? Do you find it helpful in the abstract? Is it deployed usefully in your life? Do you know of any different symbols that don't use wheelchairs?

Watch on YouTube

Comments

[jeshyr]

I like the standard (non-dynamic) one honestly - it's more iconic. I feel like the more you make it try to look like a person in a racing wheelchair the less it's read as "iconic" and the more it's read as literal.

And I honestly can't think of any better symbol - I suspect it's literally impossible to create a symbol that fits ALL the criteria and ALSO isn't a wheelchair. I'd rather go the route of more education around what it means.

[jesse_the_k]

I'm with you.

In fact, the effort spent on the "Accessible Icon" project annoyed me, but I wasn't doing it, so I just kept my mouth shut. Mostly.

(Because I LOVE MY RULES I was particularly incensed that the speedy-wheelie didn't conform to the signage requirements for our ADA. Until finally our Federal Govt issued a 'if you insist, we'll accept this' letter.)