Campaigners have criticized Avanti West Coast, a major UK rail company, for using an image of wheelchair users in a marketing campaign that misrepresents the realities of accessible travel. The artwork, created by Baraka Carbery and titled “Together We Roll,” celebrates diversity and joy, but only features one wheelchair space in standard class on the new Evero trains, making it impossible for two wheelchair users to travel together.
Alice Maynard, a lifelong wheelchair user, condemned the company’s approach, arguing that it signifies “virtue signaling without virtue,” calling for increased wheelchair availability rather than just glossy images. Paralympic athlete Anne Wafula-Strike echoed these sentiments, pointing out the growing challenges faced by disabled travelers and emphasizing the need for genuine improvements in public transport accessibility.
In response, Avanti West Coast stated that their trains comply with current regulations regarding wheelchair space and expressed disappointment over the reactions to the artwork, reaffirming their commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
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