HAPPENING 17 September — 17 October 2024 | A new photo exhibition has opened in Rotterdam, highlighting the need for more accessible hospitality spaces. The initiative, led by foundation De Zonnebloem, aims to spark conversation about creating inclusive environments for all.
Photo exhibition in Rotterdam highlights need for accessible hospitality
The national foundation De Zonnebloem has launched a photo exhibition in Rotterdam, titled Samen Onbeperkt Vooruit (Together Unrestricted Forward), with a clear message: there is still much to be done to make hospitality venues fully accessible for everyone. The exhibition features the work of photographer Linelle Deunk and portrays the daily experiences of 19 individuals with physical disabilities. The display aims to raise awareness about the barriers faced by many, such as inaccessible toilets, narrow doorways, and obstacles in public venues. The exhibition was officially opened on 17 September at the Kruisplein, Rotterdam.
The launch of the exhibition coincides with the association’s 75th anniversary. Developed in collaboration with the foundation Open mind, the photographs not only capture personal stories but also highlight the need for a society where everyone can participate equally. The city of Rotterdam, which has been working on improving accessibility in various sectors, including hospitality, serves as a fitting location for the exhibition’s latest showing.
Rotterdam's commitment to accessible hospitality
Rotterdam was chosen as the host city due to the upcoming Gastvrij Rotterdam hospitality fair. According to research by De Zonnebloem, more than half of people with physical disabilities visit a hospitality venue at least once a month, which is 20% less than the general Dutch population. The reasons cited for this include the lack of accessible toilets, heavy entrance doors, and steps at entryways that block access. These barriers often lead to social isolation, with people opting to stay at home instead of visiting public venues.
Marc Damen, director of De Zonnebloem, expressed his satisfaction with the exhibition being shown in Rotterdam. “For 75 years, De Zonnebloem has believed that people with physical disabilities should be able to participate in society without hindrance. Living together means listening to each other. It’s fantastic to see that the hospitality sector in Rotterdam is listening and not making decisions for people with disabilities, but rather with them.”
Ulrich Zafferio Oron, one of the individuals featured in the exhibition, commented: “Almost everything is designed from a standing person’s perspective. Even if there is an adapted toilet, the mirror is often still placed at standing height. Listening not only helps me, but also others. I may have issues with my legs, but my brain is fine, so I’d like to contribute ideas about wheelchair-friendly adjustments. This benefits both me and the hospitality venues.”
Accessibility in Rotterdam's venues
Ton Wesselink, director of SS Rotterdam, shared his perspective on improving accessibility at his venue: “The SS Rotterdam is not fully accessible for wheelchair users. It wasn’t designed for that, but we want to be as hospitable as possible. We do this by involving people with disabilities in the development process. Together, we are making our ship, restaurants, and hotel more accessible.”
Another participant in the exhibition, Clifford Nigel Thomas, spoke about his experiences with treatment in public spaces. “I find it important to raise awareness about how we are treated. As a child, I was not treated any differently. But when I went to vocational school, I realised that my physical disability was an issue for others. People didn’t know how to approach me. They’d ask my mother questions, but she would say: ‘Ask him yourself.’ The same applies to restaurants – speak to me directly. Sometimes, I don’t even get a menu.”
The exhibition’s impact
The Samen Onbeperkt Vooruit exhibition features portraits of 19 individuals, each accompanied by their personal stories. The project offers visitors a chance to understand the real-life challenges that people with physical disabilities face. Having already toured cities such as The Hague, Hardenberg, and Utrecht, the exhibition will now be on display in Rotterdam at Kruisplein for the next three weeks. De Zonnebloem’s collaboration with Open mind seeks to encourage understanding and open dialogue on the topic of accessibility.
Mirjam Bekker-Stoop, director of Open mind, stated: “It’s crucial that these stories are heard across the Netherlands. Awareness leads to understanding, and we hope this understanding will encourage open discussions and a collective drive for a more accessible society.”
How to get there
The Samen Onbeperkt Vooruit exhibition is located at Kruisplein, a well-known area in central Rotterdam. The location is easily accessible by public transport, including trams and buses, and is a short walk from Rotterdam Centraal Station. The area is also well connected to major roads and features ample parking nearby, although visitors are encouraged to use public transport to reduce congestion.
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