This is the email I just sent to the TX State Aquarium

[nightshade1972]

To Whom It May Concern

Comments

[gothtique]

Polite and to the point...
as unfortunate as it is.

Thank you for taking the time to write to them.

[nightshade1972]

I wish more architects/designers understood the need to have some sort of "disabled advocate" on board when plans are conceived. Able-bodied people, while they may have the best of intentions, simply can't conceive of the ways in which a handicapped individual might encounter difficulties.

Around the time the ADA was passed, there was a great deal of interest expressed by the able-bodied community in being "disabled for a day to see what it feels like". Walk around blindfolded to simulate blindness, earplugs to simulate deafness, use a wheelchair all day, etc. This was touted as the Next Big Step towards compassion and understanding for all, even those of us who aren't fully able-bodied. Then it was pointed out to the organizers/participants of such events that it was very nice they were trying to "see how the other half lives"--but at the end of the day, they could take off the blindfold, remove the earplugs, get up from the chair and go on with the rest of their lives. The rest of us could not.

[starry_diadem]

Let us know if you get a response. I'll bet that stall meets the minimum legal requirements.

[podmeister]

Really nicely put, though I'm sorry you had to experience that.
Let us know if you get a response!

[little_octagon]

This reminds me of a standup comedy routine I heard once. The performer was not handicapped but for some reason had to use that stall. When she went to reach for the TP, she found that she had to walk over to the dispenser. "I am sorry," she said, "but if I have to do that, this stall is NOT ACCESSIBLE!"

Sorry you had the experience, otherwise:^( Very well crafted letter.

[ext_1134274]

Sounds like you were able to use the bathroom with no problem.