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Universal Design Workshop to Feature Award-Winning Blind Architect at Second Annual Absolutely Accessible Kent

Michigan Business Network
June 19, 2020 9:00 AM

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Disability Advocates of Kent County will host a virtual technical workshop and internationally recognized keynote speaker on accessibility and the importance of inclusive design on June 22nd.


Grand Rapids, Michigan – June 17, 2020 –  Disability Advocates of Kent County will host the second annual Absolutely Accessible Kent Technical Workshop featuring Chris Downey, an award-winning architect from California, who unexpectedly lost his sight in 2008. The virtual event will take place Monday, June 22nd from 11:30–2:00 p.m. Those who attend the workshop will receive insight from Downey as he expresses the importance of Universal Design and accessibility for all. He will also reflect on his 20 years of sighted architectural experience and ongoing practice following the loss of his sight. 

“Disability Advocates of Kent County will continue to fight and pursue Universal Design within the Grand Rapids community and beyond,” said Dave Bulkowski, Executive Director of Disability Advocates of Kent County. “Chris exemplifies that goal in everything he does, which is why we are so excited to have him join us for our second annual event. Our mission and his is to create spaces that are accessible and welcoming to all.” 

As one of the few practicing blind architects in the world, Chris has been featured in local, national, and international media stories and speaks regularly about his many “outsights” since losing his sight. Today, he helps designers innovate while keeping people with disabilities in mind. He also makes a strong case that designing for and with people with disabilities actually improves everyone’s experience. In all of his work, Chris endeavors to achieve greater access, not only for space and information, but also to “delight.” Chris teaches Accessibility and Universal Design at the University of California, Berkeley, serves on the Board of Directors for the LightHouse for the Blind & Visually Impaired, and has a gubernatorial appointment to the California Commission on Disability Access.  

The second technical workshop is the annual centerpiece for the educational efforts on accessibility and Universal Design provided by Disability Advocates of Kent County. It allows them to continue to strive toward universally designed spaces within West Michigan that go beyond the guidelines set by the Americans With Disabilities Act and the Michigan Construction Code. As an educational event, the workshop presents an opportunity for all members of the community, as well as architects, builders, designers, passionate individuals, and others to learn more about the importance of Universal Design as it rates to accessibility. 

“COVID-19 only shed more light on the discrepancies within our systems as it relates to those with disabilities,” said Bulkowski. “We are appreciative to our many sponsors who have made the Absolutely Accessible Kent project come to fruition. They have given us the opportunity to shed light on the strides we can all take towards becoming a more inclusive community.” 

Presenting sponsors of the event are Steelcase and Custer. Other generous sponsors include: AIA Grand Rapids, Applied Imaging, Behler Young, Cascade Community Foundation, City of Grand Rapids - Community Development Department, Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., Fair Housing Center of West Michigan, Fishbeck, Gerald R. Ford International Airport, Herman Miller, Land & Co., MCSA Group, Mathison | Mathison Architects, Mobile GR & Parking Services, 100 Shades of disABILITY L3C, Progressive AE, Rockford Construction, Spark43 Architects, and Varnum LLP 

The Technical Workshop and Luncheon featuring Chris Downey is open to the public with the purchase of a $25 ticket. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Eventbrite registration here. 

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About Disability Advocates of Kent County
Disability Advocates of Kent County works alongside people with disabilities as they seek to lead self-directed lives and to advocate for accessible and welcoming communities. On the individual level, Disability Advocates’ experienced and knowledgeable staff provides support in a variety of issue areas, including information about our community resources, housing, employment, transportation, and veterans’ assistance. These crucial programs assist thousands of individuals each year. On the community or systems level, Disability Advocates tirelessly advocates for public policy change and increased accessibility at the local, state, and federal levels. Learn more at www.dakc.us.

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