Autonomy, Dependence and Immobility: The Mobility Capacity of Blind People in León, Guanajuato

Abstract

Objective: To study the mobility capacity of blind or visually impaired people in León, Guanajuato. Methodology: The analysis is based on ethnographic fieldwork involving participant observation and semi-structured interviews with four people living with some type of visual impairment in the city. Results: León is a disabling city not only because of its road infrastructure, but also because its civic culture is oriented toward inhibiting the mobility of blind or visually impaired people. Value: By introducing the concept of motility, the article seeks to contribute with information to expand the spectrum of studies on disability and mobility. Limitations: This is an exploratory study that prioritizes rapport and the collective construction of knowledge over representativeness. Conclusions: Social class, public insecurity, and street harassment should be incorporated into disability and mobility studies.