Faces of CRD
Read real-life stories about how CRD is protecting and enforcing the civil rights of all Californians.
DISCRIMINATION BASED ON DISABILITY
Bhatti
What was your experience that led you to seek out help from CRD?
My mother, sister and I moved into our new construction home in the upscale Belcourt Seven Oaks community in Bakersfield, CA. My mother and sister both use a wheelchair. Upon our move, we found our two-car concrete driveway to be extremely narrow and unable to accommodate disabled individuals in a wheelchair when two vehicles are parked. I submitted a request for my Homeowners Association (HOA) to allow us to extend my driveway on our property. This would allow us to have disability accessibility. The HOA denied my request for reasonable accommodation and members of the HOA board also made harsh comments stating, “if you have that much of an ADA issue, you should be buying an ADA compliant house.”
How did that experience affect you?
This experience affected me deeply. I was extremely saddened to see such a prestigious community’s HOA/Board, simply deny my request for disability accommodation after multiple discussions and even make such statements towards my family.
What do you want people to take away from your experience?
I want people to remember that they have a “voice” and need to “speak up”. People forget that they have rights. Don’t let anyone keep you back from enjoying your life and practicing your freedom.
What do you want people to know about discrimination based on disability?
You have rights and don’t let anyone keep you back from enjoying your life and practicing your freedom.
How was your experience with CRD?
My experience with CRD, overall, was a great experience. The intake workers are extremely nice and understanding. My case worker was super helpful and always responded in a timely manner. I am extremely satisfied with my experience working with CRD. I would highly recommend someone that is experiencing discrimination based on race, age, gender orientation, national origin, or disability, to contact the CRD ASAP!!