A Journey Through Disability History

Disability is a word that can invoke many reactions when you hear it. It also is subject to many different interpretations and manifestations. Throughout history; there have been many changes to the way we see and hear disability.

http://dhss.alaska.gov/gcdse/Pages/history/index.aspx

This is an online version of a display that ran when the term began in Takena hall. It shows how the climate for how people with disabilities have changed ever since history began. The display is also full of imagery and quotes that show key points of how people with disabilities have been treated.

"There is only one good; knowledge; and one evil, ignorance." -Socrates

This is one of several quotes that stood out at me; as I have long considered knowledge the greatest weapon we have against ignorance. As a philosopher, Socrates was centuries ahead of his time for his wisdom and insight into society.

In the past, those who were disabled were seen as burdens and blights on society; outcasts of the highest caliber.

As time has passed, the field of medicine has acknowledged disability as an issue to be taken seriously; but the idea that they are diseased is one that was controversial, and remains so in many circles to this day. Not every disability is curable; but is entirely possible to live with it and lead a long and fulfilling life.

The people of the past often felt pity upon those who were disabled; often to the point of believing they are beyond saving or help.

The word "retard" is also often one that has been condescendingly tossed around towards people; regardless of whether or not people have a disability. Over time, the word has been corrupted to an ableist slur that is on par with some of the worst things you can call a person. It is even gotten to the point where the bulk of the people in the US may not even be aware of the actual dictionary definition of the word. So, here it is.

retard, verb. Oxford English definition:
Delay or hold back in terms of progress, development, or accomplishment.

The more common form of the word is actually the secondary meaning, and unfortunately; it has been used in a manner where it lacks concern or care of any kind.

To further show how things were in the past, over 200,000 of the first victims of the holocaust were disabled. This attitude was one of the many tactics of fear used by Nazi Germany in their push towards Western perfection; with Adolf Hitler and Dr. Josef Mengele being among the notable figures in this genocidal atrocity.

Yet, as time passed; the war ended in victory for the Allies, and the new path for acceptance began at home; with parents and disabled alike actively pushing to be treated on the same terms as an ordinary person.

While there is still an aura of those with disabilities being seen as "eternal children," I submit that it is entirely possible to retain one's youthful spirit as an adult; as well as for those with disabilities to become actively contributing members to society.

The social stigma against the disabled has now gotten its own stigma regarding those who have been diagnosed with disabilities to be given the help they need and the respect they deserve as people.

At this school alone, there are many resources for those who disabled. I myself was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome/high-functioning Autism in early 2003; and I have often faced ridicule and scorn in the past, to the point where I often got into fights and had trouble getting along with other people. Yet, as time passed; I have managed to become an intelligent and strong young man.

Though I still have a way to go; I was able to sit down with two members of the Center for Accessibility Resources over the past week to discuss what is available to those who have disabilities; as well as key points in the display I was discussing. Her name is Julie Hessel.

What inspired you to do this display? "It was offered through professional organizations traveling throughout the country."

Do you know anyone personally with a disability? "Family."

How do you think of the state of disability today as opposed to the past? "More talked-about and addressed."

Where did you first get the idea to help people with disabilities? "Special ed/early education."

Why do you feel the way you do when you help people with disabilities? "Fulfilled for success."

This afternoon, I also spoke with Jennifer Walker before writing about the issue. My interview with her is recorded below.

How do you help students here at LBCC?

"Scheduling tests in the support lab. Checkout equipment."

What sort of services do you offer?

"Proctor tests, offer equipment/computers; and quiet space."

When can we see some sort of way to get involved ourselves?

"Support lab open Mon-Thur 9AM-3PM, Fri 9AM-2PM."

Where can I find other information on the student affairs?

"LBCC website; linnbenton.edu; Student Life/Leadership, library ."

Why are you so committed to helping students?

"Help students succeed for degree/certificate."

There are many ways to see people with disabilities. Perhaps, the best way to put it is this: Disability is an art. Disability is a way of life. I'm glad I was able to take this journey and continue to see where the road goes in the future.

At a glance:

The disability history display is currently traveling throughout the country. You can find an online version here.

Much has changed throughout disability history.

Disability is an art. Disability is a way of life.