As I read "Toward Ending Ableism in Education", by Thomas Hehir, I was able to connect it to "Privilege, Power, and Difference" by Alan Johnson. Hehir defines ableism as "the devaluation of disability". He then goes on to say that this results in societal attitudes. For example, it is better for a child to speak rather than sign. After reading this article, I related it back to a quote from Johnson. "If we feel afraid, it isn't what we don't know that frightens us, it's what we think we do know" (p.16). This quote stood out to me because Johnson explains that we are taught to tiptoe around sensitive subjects. I believe this to be relevant because many people feel as though the discussion of disabilities/ableism is one of those sensitive subjects. However, instead of fearing these uncomfortable situations, we need to reclaim them.
As I continued reading, I was also able to make a connection between “Defining Racism: Can We Talk?” by Tatum and "Toward Ending Ableism in Education", by Thomas Hehir. One of the main arguments that tatum addresses is that in order for there to be change/end prejudice stereotypes, we must not stay silent. Instead, we must speak up as an advocate for others. “We have to talk about it in order to change it”. These two quotes are similar, but they are both very powerful. They both address that there is still discrimination present within our society. Instead of being prejudiced because of our differences, we should embrace one another’s differences.
Point for Class: How can we as future educators make sure that ALL of our students are valued.
Despite their race/abelsim how can we be the best teachers for them?
This is a hyperlink to a video that discusses what ableism is:
Examined Life Sentences:
Similar to Hehir's article, I found this video very educational and interesting. I think that one of the things that stood out to me the most was being able to hear about this for a person who is disabled. I think it is one thing for able bodied people to discuss the matter. However, hearing it from someone who lives it is very different.
Hi Brenna,
ReplyDeleteI did a combo of extended comments from your blog and reflection - thank you for inspiring me!
Disabilities is something that I feel like everyone should learn about.
ReplyDeleteI really your post Brenna its very educational
ReplyDeleteYour blogs are always well written and think you did a really nice job connecting it to other readings.
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