SumBlog10

          A symbol that I encounter on a daily basis is the handicapped symbol. It is a stick figure of a person in his/her wheelchair. Often it is white on a dark background (usually a blue.) Of course, this a profane sign in that it show a person in a wheelchair; but it's also sacred. It represents someone who is disabled and indicates that special considerations have been made to accommodate them in that space. It means that a person with a disability can use that space or facility often more easily than a non-handicapped marked space. It also means that those who are not disabled should not use that space but leave it reserved for someone with a disability.

          People continue to maintain the stick figure as "sacred" I think for a few reasons. I think one of the big reasons is that in many countries, it is government enforced on the street. For example, a person can be fined for using a handicapped parking stall without the visible documentation. But what about bathrooms and other spaces marked with the symbol? I think the other reasons people obey these symbols is out of respect and conditioning. I think non-disabled individuals over time are conditioned to reserve this space for others. Even when those who don't need the special accommodations, use a handicapped space I think usually feel guilty or feel the need to justify their decision.

          Sociologist Berger would agree with the notion that people get used to this sign and simply obey it. There isn't really a need to keep repeating the process step-by-step. While young children might question an adult why we can't park there or use that particular space, the children will begin to recognize this symbol throughout their daily lives and continue to live with them over time.

          I think this symbol is great for showing our respect and inclusion of disabled people. An advantage is that without words, nearly every culture can understand the picture. The meaning of "accessibility" or "reserved" may need to be learned/taught; but thereafter the symbol is easily applied to all spaces intended. Someone seeing the sign over a parking space in Canada and someone seeing it on a seat in the metro in Japan both know the intended meaning. On the other hand, although it's an attempt at inclusion and helpfulness, by nature it's also one of segregation. 

       On a side note -- recently there has been a movement to change the sign to a more active disabled stick figure. New York city has already embraced it, and it's replacing the old sign. To me, the figure is more athletic and able. What do you think?