Peyton Ng
Pronouns: she/her
Research Mentor(s): Kaci Pellar
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Detroit Disability Power / NonUM
Program:
Authors: Peyton Ng, Tiya Berry, Kaci Pellar
Session: Session 7: 4:40 pm – 5:30 pm
Poster: 1
Abstract
In Detroit, Michigan, many residents have cognitive, physical, and mental disabilities. Many disabled residents are discriminated against in Detroit and cannot find accessible housing, resources, modifications, or accommodations for their disabilities. People with disabilities also face discrimination in polling sites when voting due to poll workers’ lack of training and awareness to account for the needs of disabled voters. Having a disability can also be related to poverty, both of which can make it difficult to access housing. The non-profit organization Detroit Disability Power works to dismantle ableism in housing by increasing the development of affordable and accessible housing for Detroiters. We work with other organizations to increase our community’s resources and accessible housing options We also visit polling sites and complete audits to ensure that disabled people are able to vote properly in elections. To better understand these housing problems, we have conducted interviews with Detroit Residents about their issues with housing in Detroit and plan to meet with housing land-lords so they are able to understand their disabled residents’ needs. DDP is working with Kelsey and Detroit’s Housing Revitalization Department to create training for housing professionals on how to create more accessible housing, connect disabled residents to accessible housing, and make accessible housing affordable and suitable for every family. We are also finding tools that show people where they can find accessible housing and what accessible housing really looks like past ADA requirements. We hope our findings will grant homes to more communities that need a safe and accommodating place to live.
