The Road to Independence: Why Zero Fares in Tucson Matters

An elderly man smiles as he rides a public bus, in the lower left corner the Zero Fares Tucson logo is placed.

We're joining allied organizations in support of permanent, zero-fare public transit. Transportation is often a barrier for people with disabilities. While Zero Fares Tucson is only a start to removing barriers, it's an important financial barrier to remove so anyone can go to essential appointments and participate fully in our community.

A Barrier to Independence

The cost of transportation is a significant barrier for those with low or fixed incomes, making it difficult to live independently. Reinstating fares would financially burden our low-income neighbors at a time when we have all experienced increased daily living costs, from groceries to housing. If fares return, some of our neighbors will have to choose between making ends meet and getting to things like work and medical appointments.

More Than Just a Fare

Our letter to Mayor Romero and the City Council is a call to action to make Tucson a more equitable place. Supporting Zero Fares Tucson is about creating a society where every resident has access to transportation without costs holding them back. It levels the playing field so our neighbors can access opportunities like job interviews, doctor's visits, and participating in our community.

You Can Help

A big part of Direct's work is advocacy. We teach self-advocacy, we advocate on behalf of those who cannot advocate for themselves, and we advocate for systemic change to improve the lives of people with disabilities. This is an opportunity for you to advocate with us! Check out the following ways to lift your voice and support Zero Fares Tucson:

Hailey Thoman, Associate Director

Hailey has worked in disability rights since 2011. Most of Hailey’s work has been focused on eliminating barriers to employment for people with disabilities while Executive Director for Linkages. She expanded her advocacy efforts when joining Direct Advocacy & Resource Center in 2019.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/haileythoman/
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