People with disabilities are often disrespected because of the way they were born. However, respect is something everyone deserves, regardless of who they are or how they live.
The disabled community is sometimes targeted for things they cannot control. All people should be treated with respect and, in turn, give respect to others. People with disabilities have faced criticism for decades; from the 1860s to the 1970s, they experienced some of the most severe mistreatment.
In the 1860s, people with disabilities frequently experienced abuse. For example, when a baby was born with a disability, some families abandoned the child because they believed the baby was “abnormal.” While less common today, discrimination still exists. According to global estimates, about 16% of the world’s population has a disability. Many advocates work to support this community by organizing fundraisers, providing resources and helping individuals feel seen and valued.
Disrespect can affect people with disabilities in many ways. Sophomore Evan Metz shared his perspective on the issue. “I feel as if disrespect can affect disabled people, especially their mental health,” Metz said. He added that equal rights should apply to people with disabilities. “I believe that disabled people should be treated fairly, and just because someone is disabled doesn’t mean they do not have rights.” Today, many people with disabilities participate in sports and hold jobs. Wheelchair basketball, for example, is one of the most popular adaptive sports.
In the 1940s, people with disabilities in the United States began gaining access to employment opportunities. By 1948, organized sports for athletes with disabilities also became more widely accepted. Today, students with disabilities attend school alongside their peers, building friendships and learning together. Educators have noted positive changes in how students treat one another and increased inclusion within schools.
It’s important to bring attention to this not just in the month of March, but also at all other times.
