Access Denied: College Graduate In Wheelchair Not Allowed To Accept Degree On Stage
Tariq Bashir’s road to success has come with a number of obstacles. It has taken him nearly four years to obtain his associate’s degree from Central New Mexico (CNM) Community College.
Despite his ongoing battle with major health-related issues over the years, he was still able to overcome and bring his dream to fruition. However, one unlikely obstacle still prohibited him from basking in the glory of his success – access to the stage during the graduation ceremony.
According to Yahoo! News, Bashir was robbed of the moment he always dreamed of simply because he’s confined to a wheelchair. Just two weeks before the commencement ceremony took place, he was notified by college officials, who informed him that wheelchairs would not be allowed on stage. An activity supervisor representing the college stated that the reason was due to safety concerns. However, no further details were provided to justify the executive order. So, Bashir took the issue to the dean’s desk, as well as the disability office. But, to no avail.
Bashir took things a step further when he contacted the local news station KOB-4 to share his disheartening situation with the world. “I’m not allowed to go up on stage to get my degree. I have got to go to the bottom of the stage and not get that shining moment like everybody else was getting. They didn’t hear my name being called. They didn’t see me getting my degree in hand. They just saw me rolling back to my sitting position,” the graduate said.
On Monday, May 5 CNMCC Vice President of Services, Phillip Bustos issued a detailed statement explaining the decision to prohibit wheelchair access to the stage. Here’s what he had to say:
“With more than 600 graduates participating in CNM’s Graduation Ceremony, it is a challenge for us to meet the expectations of every graduate at the ceremony. At Saturday’s ceremony, for the first time, CNM debuted two large video screens to improve the visibility for each graduate’s family and supporters. We regret that Mr. Bashir was disappointed in the individual accommodations at the ceremony and we will pursue an improved contract with Tingley Coliseum and EXPO New Mexico that includes a stage with better accommodations for those with disabilities.”
The college also stated that Bashir was allowed to be photographed in front of the stage while accepting his degree. He was also congratulated by college officials for his achievements. However, he personally feels that the accommodations didn’t equate to the symbolism of going on stage.
Although the college did make an effort to accommodate Bashir, do you feel their efforts were up to par?
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