The topic that resonated with me the most is Ableism because it addresses a current issue of prejudice that disabled persons face daily. Understanding how society, families view disability is of optimal value in the 21st century. I have learned that I must recognize that when we claim that disability is not inability, our actions and thoughts must also align with that fact. Indeed, Friedman and Owen (2017) argue that the adverse effects of ableism have a social and psychological damaging impact. Nonetheless, I now understand the microaggressions that can be verbal or behavioral, which have a negative mental and social impact. We mustn’t imply that disability makes people less of who they are in our engagement. For example, using phrases such as “are you off your meds,” you are lame” indicate someone has a problem worth fixing, which not the case.
Having interacted with some of my close family and friends who have disabilities, I now have a greater insight into discriminatory behaviors previously overlooked. I understand the implicit and explicit bias in need to conceal what I hold as a bias comes off as discrimination (Lyons, 2013). For instance, choosing an unusually soft tone to address them may seem the human thing to do, but I now realize I have been doing it out of bias and held perceptions.
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“ Why I must come out” Ted Talk by Geena Rocero was inspirational, giving meaning to the need for respect, tolerance, and, most importantly, the family’s role in accepting diversity. As a successful Trans woman, her identity and success have not deterred her from “coming out”. The desire to own her identity while her family has been supportive all through is blissful. Rocero’s story is crucial for me because I feel families should support their loved ones as they present the broader community’s perception. Rocero (2014) outlines that most profound truths allow us to be who and what we want to become.
Also, “Dare to disagree” by Heffernan is an eye-opener on the need for speaking out uncomfortable truths that help us think. Such is significant because, in a world where people are not tolerant of those who are different, we fail to challenge ourselves beyond prejudice. As Heffernan (2012) assert, 85% of workers are afraid to raise issues, and for a thinking society to thrive, we must break the silence. For diversity to thrive, entities must be willing to hire people from all diverse groups without fear that they will face a backlash from society.
Moving forward, I will be more receptive to diversity by using respectful words and considering my attitude while speaking on various issues. Indeed, even in instances of frustration, it is not right to attack a person based on gender identity or disability (Tarvainen, 2019). I will also watch on unsaid cues such as facial expressions that come off as dismissive or aggressive. Listening will also be vital in my engagement with other people; understanding them will allow for an insightful perspective to thrive. In the process, I will play a role in ensuring we establish an accepting society and diminish discrimination.
To continue learning on diversity, I will engage in diversity and inclusion programs that help in being part of people from all walks of life where we can interact and exchange ideas. For example, the UnitedHealth Group allows black students to expand their knowledge of science. Through the human rights campaign (HRC), I will help my LGBTQ friends raise their voices on discrimination issues. As a person who has always celebrated the international day of disabled persons, I will join support groups for interaction and raise funds.
References
Friedman, C., & Owen, A. (2017). Defining Disability: Understandings of and Attitudes Towards Ableism and Disability. Disability Studies Quarterly. 37. 10.18061/dsq. v37i1.5061.
Heffernan. M. (2012). Dare to disagree | Margaret Heffernan. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PY_kd46RfVE
Lyons, L. (2013). Transformed understanding or enlightened ableism? The gap between policy and practice for children with disabilities in Aotearoa New Zealand. International Journal of Early Childhood , 45 (2), 237-249.
Rocero. G. (2014). Why I must come out | Geena Rocero. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mCZCok_u37w
Tarvainen, M. (2019). Ableism and the life stories of people with disabilities. Scandinavian Journal of Disability Research , 21 (1).
