Accessibility Starts With Being Seen: My Conversation on Houston Matters
Today, I had the opportunity to join Houston Matters to discuss something that impacts millions of people every day: accessibility, disability inclusion, and the importance of representation.
As an author, artist, disability advocate, and wheelchair user, my work has always centered around helping people better understand the disability community. While accessibility is often viewed as ramps, parking spaces, and building design, true inclusion goes much deeper. It begins with awareness, empathy, education, and a willingness to create spaces where everyone feels welcome.
During the conversation, I shared parts of my personal journey living with Sacral Agenesis, a rare disability that has shaped my life in unique ways. I spoke about navigating the world as a wheelchair user, the challenges that still exist, and the opportunities we have as a society to build stronger, more inclusive communities.
We also discussed the power of storytelling. Through my books, including A Tale of a Service Animal and The ABCs of Disability Etiquette, I strive to create resources that help children, families, businesses, schools, and communities better understand disability awareness and service animal etiquette. Education creates understanding, and understanding creates inclusion.
One of the most important messages I shared is that disability representation matters. When people with disabilities are visible in bookstores, classrooms, workplaces, media, and leadership positions, we help break down stereotypes and create opportunities for future generations to see what is possible.
I am incredibly grateful to the Houston Matters team for creating space for this important conversation and for helping amplify the voices of the disability community.
Thank you to everyone who listened, shared the interview, supports my work, attends my events, purchases my books, or simply takes the time to learn more about disability inclusion. Every conversation makes a difference.
Together, we can continue building communities where accessibility is not an afterthought but a standard, where differences are celebrated, and where everyone has the opportunity to belong.
With gratitude,
Melissa DiVietri
Author, Artist & Disability Advocate
