Oliver Parks and Recreation has a new public skating policy that now permits sledges. The old policy was updated after a youth with cerebral palsy was asked to leave the Oliver arena ice surface because he was using a sledge.
File photo
A new public skating policy in Oliver will now permit people to use sledges following a recent incident that saw a disabled youth being asked to leave the ice.
Teenager Zaiden Burke was using a sledge (sled) on the ice when he was asked to leave by an attendant because the old policy states that no sleds or sledges are permitted due to safety reasons.
Burke, who felt embarrassed by the situation, told his story on Facebook, saying it was discrimination.
“It’s not okay. I am in tears and am looking for help,” he said.
But it wasn’t long before Oliver Parks and Recreation manager Carol Sheridan stepped in to address the concern.
She noted the old policy was created many years ago with public safety in mind, but it doesn’t support the strategic goal to ensure access and inclusion at all recreation facilities.
“While doing research about what language arenas around the province and other places in Canada are using, it was clear that we were not the first to make these changes based on need,” Sheridan said.
She pointed out the nature of public skating involving people of all ages, sizes and abilities presents safety risks.
But Sheridan said skate attendants are trained on the safety rules and are paid to supervise to prevent injury. If everyone follows the rules and behaviour is monitored, the benefits to participation outweigh the risks, she added.
Burke said he is in full control of his sled and not a danger to others.
At the end of the day, Burke thanked Sheridan for her help and support.
“I have respect for everyone who works at the rink and I feel like this is an issue that is happening in rinks all over and needs to be addressed.”
Sheridan said the media attention surrounding the incident was a bit intense, but noted the policy review was completely justified.
“I have empathy to the young man who felt in the moment that he was being discriminated against because he requires a sledge to participate.”
She said Oliver Parks and Recreation will continue to review its policies and procedures to ensure they are using inclusive and welcoming language to ensure access for all.
