As a child with a disability, I attended mainstream classes all my life. One memorable class was DARE (Drug Awareness Resistance Education), aimed at preventing drug addiction—a fear shared by all parents. This program made me realize the importance of early education on critical issues. Just as children learn about the dangers of drugs, they should also be taught about disability etiquette and inclusion from a young age.
Children’s natural curiosity about differences should be nurtured, not stifled. When a child asks about someone with a disability, parents often shush them out of discomfort. This only perpetuates ignorance. Instead, open discussions can foster understanding and empathy. I recall a time at a mall with my brother Abner and our caregivers. We exited an elevator and overheard a father tell his son, “Thank God you’re not like them.” This comment stung, but more than that, it made me pity the man for his ignorance—a product of likely never having been exposed to individuals with disabilities.
The disability community is the largest underrepresented and underserved group in the U.S., encompassing every body shape, skin color, sexual orientation, and gender. Despite this, society often ignores us to avoid disrupting their busy lives. Disability is not going away; it’s a natural part of the human experience. Everyone is only “temporarily able” and might need help eventually.
Living with a disability means no days off; it’s a constant presence. Every day, I face frustrations and struggles. In school, I wasn’t just the last picked for dodgeball—I was excluded entirely because it was deemed “too dangerous.” In home economics, while others learned to sew, I was switched to a different elective because the teacher assumed I couldn’t use the sewing machine pedal. I was never given a chance to adapt or prove my abilities.
Ableism limits growth for societal convenience, imposing barriers that exclude rather than include. Consider the story of Judy Heumann and the 504 sit-in—a pivotal moment in American history that highlights the fight for disability rights. Stories like hers should be part of our collective knowledge, teaching us about resilience and the importance of inclusivity.
Exposure to disability issues from a young age can normalize differences and reduce stigma. Integrating disability awareness into education can help children grow into empathetic, informed adults. The more we see and understand people with disabilities, the less “other” they become.
Our society must recognize that disability is part of the human condition and that inclusivity benefits everyone. By breaking down barriers and challenging ableist attitudes, we create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We must move beyond fear and ignorance to embrace a future where all individuals are valued for their unique contributions.
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