Did you read the same article I did? The writer didn't say anything that translates, "Look at the poor, defenseless disabled people...". He clearly said he didn't condone their behavior. Gardner was flying in that night and could have met with the protesters to listen to them and address their fears and concerns. He was not obligated, but he could have helped to diffuse the situation with a gentler, more diplomatic approach. Equal treatment is one thing, sensitivity is quite another. As people with physical disabilities, in wheelchairs with probable secondary conditions or illnesses, waiting to speak to the Senator for two days must have been more challenging than most able-bodied people can imagine. A little acknowledgement and effort would have gone a long way, instead of throwing them in jail. If they were not satisfied after that, then, as the writer said, police intervention would be appropriate. The Post did not seem to condescend to anyone, in my view.