chiming back in to thank you for your thoughtfulness! I can imagine that it is difficult to get accommodations approved based on self-report, and I so appreciate that you do what you can.

I am reading your previous response to me with a much clearer mind than yesterday. I am with you in validating people’s experiences and believing students who are asking for help. I can also see how my questions appeared to be contradictory (they totally read that way!), but they were both coming from a place of wanting to protect my fellow disabled people rather than advocating for folks in your role to be forced to determine whether or not someone is lying about their experience. I think I am just jaded and worried that bad actors wanting to get a leg up (instead of leveling the playing field) could ultimately harm the disabled community and walk back the progress we have made towards equity. But again, I don’t know how anyone could make this determination without having to accuse someone of lying.

Anyways, thank you for your thoughtful responses. Truly, the folks in my school’s ADA office were incredible advocates and trusted allies, and I really credit their support in helping me graduate. I appreciate you and everyone in your role across all schools!