Local Guide and Connect Moderator Steve ( @SP31 ) lives in Miami, USA, and is passionate about highlighting different aspects of accessibility on Google Maps. Whether he’s traveling or trying out new restaurants in the Miami area, he makes sure to share his genuine experience and help others find the best places to visit. In his spare time, he loves catching up on the latest tech news.
See what Steve shared about championing accessibility on Google Maps and finding inspiration in the Local Guides community.
Why are you interested in accessibility? Is there a particular area in which you are interested the most?
I truly believe that everyone, no matter their walk of life, should have the opportunity to experience the world equally and collectively. Being an ally for those who require suitable accommodations or are perhaps averse to certain conditions is a vital area in which we can add value through our contributions.
Generally, I like to gauge the wheelchair and mobility accessibility of a location, but I’ve really enjoyed learning a lot about other aspects of accessibility on Local Guides Connect. Particularly through the Accessibility Uncovered series featuring many incredible champions for accessibility.
What have you done to help add accessibility information or generate visibility for accessibility information on Google Maps?
Contributions via Google Maps are my favorite way of helping others no matter where paths may take me. I love coming across a place that exceeds expectations when it comes to considering accessibility. On the other end, I enjoy providing key information that may help others make their best-informed decisions.
Are there any posts on Connect or meet-ups you’ve hosted that help demonstrate your contributions around accessibility to Local Guides, Google Maps, and your community?
I really enjoyed participating in @EmekaUlor 's Worldwide Accessibility Walk in 2018 from Miami! I held my own meet-up locally and it helped me become aware of some of the inconsistencies or lack of reasonable accommodations for those using wheelchairs. Considering the fact the area I was surveying is frequented by the elderly, it showed me that it’s important to help bring awareness and break down social barriers.
It was also fun being part of the Guiding Stars 2021 video and discussing how I share accessibility details and updates through my contributions on Google Maps.
Are there any posts or Local Guides on Connect that inspire you to contribute to accessibility?
It is always insightful reading the features on our various accessibility champions across the community and learning about how we each uniquely help make the world more accessible. I’ve enjoyed posts by @Jesi , @ChinonsoOnukwugha , @Ewaade_3A , and @Erna_LaBeau around tools or accommodations we see in public that we wouldn’t realize are in place to aid others.
What do you wish other Local Guides knew about accessibility?
Accessibility transcends all facets of life and is something we all should consider daily. I strongly believe that being receptive to understanding vital needs for accommodations or understanding how a place’s ambiance or sensory could impact another is important to being a helpful Guide.
What’s your tip for finding your passion through the Local Guides program?
Take advantage of the diversity we embrace and respect on Local Guides Connect — there is so much to learn and there are a ton of others just like you who may be able to help you find your next passion or motivation — whether it be food or photography, or even something else.
Thank you, Steve! Local Guides, do you include accessibility information in your contributions on Google Maps? Let us know below.
and keep doing what you know how to do best.
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Great to see you here.