Racism, ageism, and sexism are all, to varying extents, battles which are being won. Full inclusion may be some way off for some groups, but the issues are at least fully aired.
By contrast, “Disablism” is arguably the next big prejudiced view that is commonly held in our society and which still frequently results in exclusion, both physical and attitudinal.
This entire campaign has aimed to help create a society in which disabled people feel more included in everyday life. Even if it has helped just one iota, then it will have been worthwhile.
Meetings with important individuals all the way along the route and cycling with local cycling clubs has helped generate a vast amount of media coverage. In this sense, the campaign has worked in exactly the way we intended.
From Aberdeen in Scotland down to Bedford as we approached London, our message was heard – both in the local media and also directly by meeting members of the public.
Our final day involved a cycle along the Grand Union Canal towpath, before we reached Trafalgar Square. When we arrived in the Square, we had already learned that there was not going to be any London media there, nor any national coverage, nor any meeting with my hometown’s Mayor.
Because this was so starkly in contrast to the previous four weeks, this struck me as a disappointment. We are now in the run-up to the 2012 Paralympics – there is a need not only to leave a legacy for the Games themselves, but also to make our city more inclusive. Was this an opportunity missed to demonstrate an increased commitment?
