Equality is an all-inclusive concept, however, far too many of us feel free to make exceptions at will. Why do we find it easy to believe that some people are equals while, at the same time, we are convinced that others are not? What do we base our assumptions on? What criteria do we use … Continue reading EQUALITY
INCLUSION
No one wants to be ignored, and no one wants to feel left out. As human beings, we have an intense desire to interact with others in a meaningful way. Each one of us believes we have the right to be treated with respect and to be accepted as an equal member of society. This … Continue reading INCLUSION
JUDGMENT
It is a sad fact that we do not hesitate to judge each other. This usually happens quickly and with little or no evidence to support our conclusions. We form unfounded opinions based on nothing more than how someone looks, the way they move or the way they talk. None of those things tell us … Continue reading JUDGMENT
PARENTS
They are not saints, they are not superhuman and they are not perfect. The parents of children and adults with developmental disabilities are just ordinary people. They come from all walks of life. They can be wealthy, economically deprived or part of the middle class. They can belong to any religious faith or have no … Continue reading PARENTS
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY BIAS
There are many forms of bias that permeate our society. We have all seen the studies that indicate that people who are tall, thin, pretty, handsome, and have outgoing personalities are more likely to get a job, a promotion or have better success finding a mate. However, none of those attributes tell us anything about … Continue reading DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY BIAS
FRIENDSHIP
Friendships are some of the most important relationships we have in life. They add a richness and warmness to our existence. They provide comfort and make us feel connected. They allow us to be understood and accepted for who we are. They provide us with people we can count on during difficult times. And, just … Continue reading FRIENDSHIP
EMPLOYMENT
You sit in your car in the parking lot and watch as a man collects shopping carts for a large retailer. You guess him to be in his mid-fifties. You quickly judge, based on his appearance and physical movements, that he has some kind of developmental disability. Although he is measured and deliberate as he … Continue reading EMPLOYMENT
COURAGE
We all admire courage. Bravery is considered one of the finest qualities an individual can possess. That is why we honor those who demonstrate courage with medals and awards. We put them on a pedestal and look up to them. We emulate them and wonder if we could have the same level of fearlessness that … Continue reading COURAGE
FAMILIES
For most people, there is nothing more important in life than family. The benefits of the parent-child relationship and the interactions with siblings cannot be stressed enough. Family provides the nurturing support that every person needs, but it is particularly crucial for children with developmental disabilities. The love they receive from their family permits them to … Continue reading FAMILIES
IQ BIAS
Do you know what your IQ is? Do you feel it is the most important thing about you? Would you want your entire life to be judged by that one single number? Does it accurately describe your personality or temperament? Should your opportunities or choices be limited by your test results? Would you want others … Continue reading IQ BIAS
A COLLECTION OF ESSAYS 