Longer days, warmer weather, and more sunshine are the many things I look forward to in the early months of summer. Walking in Downtown Delaware to our favorite restaurants or exploring a park nearby are a few of the things my family and I enjoy during the summer. What would life be like for us if we couldn’t access these simple joys that we love so much?

“Imagine a world where you see others engaged with their environment, freely moving from one space to another — yet you are unable to participate because of an unlikely barrier: a few cement steps in your way. Seen from this light, even a single step can mean a significant barrier to entry for those with handicap accessibility — the difference between inclusion and isolation.” (Courtney Soule, Accessible design: Midland creates approach for all, Catalyst Midland).

The difference between inclusion and isolation. This is a thought I regularly have as the warmer months arrive. Universal Design (UD) is a concept I frequently talk about. There are many definitions of UD but the one I prefer is “a process that enables and empowers a diverse population by improving human performance, health and wellness, and social participation” (Steinfield and Maisel, 2012). UD is a process that focuses on creating spaces that are inclusive to as many people as possible from the very beginning, not modifications made after the fact.

In my ideal world, UD will become the norm. As architects design new playgrounds, restaurants, and buildings, they will have all people in mind. We will no longer need to make accommodations to existing structures because accessibility will have been a key priority in the early planning stages. It is my hope that in the future, our communities will celebrate our individuality through inclusive and Universal Design.

So, as you and your loved ones enjoy these warm summer months, I encourage you to take a look at the places you frequent. Are they as inclusive as they can be? Is there something you can do to make your environment more inclusive to all? For a true example of UD, take a look at this article featuring Midland, MI.