Wheelchair users encounter a unique set of challenges compared to those who can walk. Besides needing wheelchairs to move between locations, they also require additional assistance when using transportation. Special vans with ramps, buses, and other forms of transportation have specific rules and accommodations for passengers in wheelchairs.
Sadly, not everyone understands or respects the needs of wheelchair users. According to a long-standing poll conducted by the National Organization on Disability, transportation is a significant issue for people with disabilities. Around one-third of respondents from a recent poll mentioned “inadequate transportation” as a problem, while over half identified it as a “major problem” in their lives.
In a world where many are inconsiderate of those with special needs, a Paris bus driver’s actions have gone viral for standing up for a man in a wheelchair when no one else would. François Le Berre, who is bound to a wheelchair, encountered uncooperative Parisians while trying to board a bus. These individuals refused to make room for him, leaving him with no choice but to wait for the next bus.
However, the bus driver recognized the injustice and took matters into his own hands. Instead of allowing the situation to continue, the driver put the unaccommodating passengers in their place and taught them an important lesson about respect.
In a Facebook post, Le Berre recounted the incident, writing:
“Yesterday, waiting for the bus in Paris, I laughed because no one wanted to (make room). As nobody moved, the driver said, ‘Terminus! Everybody [off]!’ After the driver came to me, he said, ‘you and your help you can ride and the others, you wait for the next!'”
The driver ordered every uncooperative passenger off the bus, assisted Le Berre in boarding, and informed the rude individuals they were not welcome back on the bus and would have to wait for the next one. This action taught the inconsiderate passengers a valuable lesson in respecting people with special needs.
Now that Le Berre’s Facebook post has gone viral, people worldwide are calling on French President Emmanuel Macron to recognize and honor the bus driver’s compassionate and decisive actions.
WATCH the video below for more details:
This story serves as a persuasive reminder of the importance of empathy, consideration, and respect for people with disabilities and their unique challenges. Let it inspire us to be more understanding and accommodating of others’ needs, regardless of our own circumstances.
Source: AWM
