Knowledge Check Session 20

The presentation on the History of Disability given by Dr. Keisling was eye opening to say the least. He touched on parts of history that the history books have neglected to include. My biggest take away from the informative presentation that he gave was that the strides of the disabled community have been relatively recent. Similar to the message of the Civil Rights Movement segregation and isolation are not the answer. As mentioned during the era presentations, legislation passed during Kennedy's presidency was just the beginning for recognizing the rights of the disabled community. Legislation such as The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (1990), previously named Education for All Handicapped Children Act (1975), was later passed, which made it illegal for children to be excluded from school because of their disability. This act was passed within the last 50 years making it a recent stride for the disabled community. It is our job as practitioners and members of society to continue to be advocates for and partners with this community.
Moving forward as a future OT practitioner I will be very aware of the language I choose to use as well as the language I allow others to use around me. Adding just a few more words to a sentence when describing a client with a disability can create a whole new tone. How I choose to speak will create mutual respect and acknowledge that I recognize this client as more than their disability.