3 ms·
Contrary to ableist opinion, a utopia is not a world where disability is a problem that’s been solved; rather, it’s an inevitable expression of genetic variance
by tamcap 8y ago
Contrary to ableist opinion, a utopia is not a world where disability is a problem that’s been solved; rather, it’s an inevitable expression of genetic variance, and disabled humans are not just welcomed but fully included.)
This is something that's worthy a debate. My ableist bias is likely showing here, as I don't think I can just outright agree with this statement.
At the same time, our inability "to fix" (for better or worse) many of the existing conditions means this societal position might actually be a preferred one, in order to make everyone feel welcome and inclusive (included?). This sentence truly captures a personal dilemma for me.
- oblib 8y ago"not just welcomed but fully included" I have seen this on a small scale. As I said above, I worked with those in wheelchairs for around 15 years. The small group of people I worked with that were able bodied all became so familiar with so many handicapped people that when they were with us they were "fully included". It became a natural reflex for us to open a door or lend assistance when eating a meal, etc. And for those who came to us fresh out of "rehab" we learned how to help them realize their abilities. Driving a vehicle was often far beyond what they imagined they could do when they came out of rehab and for good reason. Many of them couldn't pick up a cup to take a sip of coffee, for example, and we were teaching them how to drive a big Ford Van all by themselves. But, in the larger population that kind of close interaction is rare and there will always be apprehension in some because they just don't know what adjustments they need to make to accommodate disabilities. The easiest thing to do is offer "If you need anything let me know".