Accessibility as Social Process

Overview

This project examines an accessible bar in Shanghai as an urban third place that expands opportunities for disabled people to participate in nightlife and social life. I explore the psychological and social dimensions of accessibility: feeling welcome, at ease, and accepted in a shared space.

I am particularly interested in how an inclusive environment makes room for disability as part of ordinary human diversity, and how this understanding is sustained through everyday interactions.

Approach

The project began with one month of participant observation and informal conversations with 20 people. I am currently analyzing the material to understand how accessibility is experienced and sustained in everyday social life.

Findings

Analysis is ongoing.

Manuscript

Status: Research in progress. I plan to continue the ethnographic fieldwork in summer 2027.