A few years ago, Variety KC set out to make our community the most inclusive city in the country.
We found a supportive champion in Councilwoman Heather Hall, and soon collaborated on a number of inclusive projects and parks. This year the mayor honored us along with Parks and Rec as they pledged to make all park properties inclusive.
Variety has chapters across the global and Variety KC consults on projects across the country… we know that this inclusive pledge is both impressive and rare.
When plans for the KC airport were in the works, Variety again reached out through Councilwoman Hall and asked for an opportunity to speak with the airport committee. We saw it as an opportunity to portray KC as the most inclusive city from the moment travelers landed. For the families in the KC area, it was an opportunity to make travel more comfortable for all families. Having an inclusive play area along with other targeted plans, makes it possible for parents of children with special needs to have a place to decompress and to be introduced to the experience they are about to have. This will have a calming effect and potential reduce any issues once in the air.
This is important for two reasons. First, one out of four families has a member with some form of disability. That is a large portion of the population who may be reluctant to travel for various reasons. Why not remove the barriers or hesitations that we can? Second, millennials are the most frequent traveling age group and more likely to travel with children.
A communication board to help facilitate questions and determine wants and needs will be posted. A universal changing table will make restroom stops safer while offering dignity.
Thank you to our Variety CHAMPION- Heather HALL!
