Eliminating Ableism in Education by Thomas Hehir (Extended Comments)

     

    While reading Hehir and watching Examined Life, I was reminded how much social status plays a huge role in physical and social status. I am aware of people with disabilities, but since I do not have someone close to me, I often forget their daily struggles. I loved how in examined life they explained what it meant to take a walk and not have certain words and meanings taken away from her. Judith Butler and Sunauna Taylor discussed how there might be some discomfort in using body parts differently to their advantage when it is not seen as the norm. They reminded me how this is something they will always deal with until things change like limited housing options, career opportunities etc. 

    When reading Eliminating Ableism in Education by Thomas Hehir and while reading Vanessa's blog post, I saw how hard it is for students with disabilities in a school setting. How important it is to be an advocate for disability and how teachers should try their best to accommodate those who need it. I loved how Vanessa discussed a part of her life and a personal blog post about disability in her family and life. I enjoyed how blunt she was in her post and did not beat around the bush about her sister's struggles in the school system. I do have hope for our generation and am thankful for special educators in the world. Although every student is different and learns differently a basic special ed course for teachers would be most beneficial. 

Changing The Way We Talk About Disability