Councilmember Chris Hinds Denounces Lack of Accessibility at Debate

(Denver, CO) On Monday afternoon, February 13th, Denver City Councilmember Chris Hinds participated in a Fair Election Fund sponsored debate. The event featured an inaccessible stage, despite featuring outspoken accessibility advocate and current Councilmember Chris Hinds.

 “I am incredibly disappointed and disheartened after the public humiliation I endured at Monday’s District 10 City Council Debate. The lack of wheelchair accessibility on the stage at the debate culminated in an extremely uncomfortable outcome: I had to climb out of my wheelchair and attempt to crawl onto the stage in front of a crowd.” said Hinds. 

 “Furthermore, I am alarmed and frustrated about the events preceding the debate. Neither the organizers nor the Clerk’s office informed me of this debate which was scheduled during our weekly Council meeting.”

 After finally learning of the debate, the Clerk’s office informed the Chris for Denver Campaign that Chris was legally obligated to participate or he would forfeit $125,000 in Fair Election Fund money. As a result, Councilmember Hinds had to choose to either preserve the campaign’s viability or his dignity on the stage at the Cleo Parker Robinson dance school. 

 “Our democracy is stronger when it represents everyone, and this is another example why we need disability representation. People often think that the ADA solved accessibility problems, but here is a stark reminder that serious issues still persist. For a city that cares about equity, we need disability representation on City Council.”

 Councilmember Chris Hinds was first elected to Denver City Council District 10 in 2019 and is the first elected official in Denver’s history who uses a wheelchair for mobility.  He has made access for all a priority during his first term.

For more information about Councilmember Chris Hinds, please visit his website.

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