Pioneering Margot Imdieke Cross opened doors for countless Minnesotans

Margot Imdieke Cross, a fearless advocate for disability rights and accessibility in Minnesota, passed away on July 21 at age 68. A Minneapolis resident, she was renowned for her expertise in accessibility, civil rights, and hands-on work ensuring public spaces met ADA standards.

Her career spanned more than 30 years at the Minnesota Council on Disability, along with work at MCIL and Advocating Change Together. She was a certified accessibility specialist, providing technical assistance and training for major projects such as the Green and Blue Line light rail, Target Field, U.S. Bank Stadium, Allianz Field, and the state capitol. She also worked with federal Homeland Security on emergency preparedness.

Imdieke Cross received numerous awards, including the Access Press Charlie Smith Award, the American Physical Therapy Association Friends of Association award, and the Minnesota DHS Odyssey Award. She is remembered as a pioneer in accessibility, a mentor, and a passionate advocate who transformed civil rights for people with disabilities in Minnesota. She is survived by her husband, Stuart, and other family members.